Research Summary: Pharmaceutical formulations in liquid form for oral administration are commonly utilized for geriatric and pediatric patients who have difficulty swallowing solid dosage forms. Rheology, texture, and stability are among the Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs) that must be addressed in the development of oral liquid dosage forms. The distribution of pharmaceutical components relies on the manipulation of rheological properties and stabilization within these forms.
The utilization of thickening agents to increase the viscosity of the liquid vehicle serves to reduce particle settling. Historically, sugars such as sucrose were used for this purpose, as well as for masking the taste of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API). However, alternative thickening agents such as xanthan gum, tragacanth, carrageenan, and cellulose derivatives (including sodium carboxymethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, and hydroxyethylcellulose) are increasingly employed, as they do not carry the same risks of glycogenic and cariogenic effects as sugars.
Cellulose derivatives, due to their water-binding and viscosity-modifying properties, can be effectively utilized to enhance the rheological properties and stability of oral liquid dosage forms. The use of hydroxyethylcellulose, a highly water-soluble cellulose ether polymer, as a viscosity-modifying agent, as well as its underlying polymer chemistry, is thoroughly examined in this literature review.
Keywords: Cellulose Derivatives; hydroxyethylcellulose; oral Liquids; Natrosol™ 250 HEC; syrup
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