Hypromelloses

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 24, 2024.

Excipient (pharmacologically inactive substance)

What is it?

Hypromellose, also commonly known as hydroxypropyl methycellulose (HPMC) is a coating agent and film-former used as an inactive ingredient in the pharmaceutical industry.^[1] It has also been used as a rate-controlling polymer for sustained-release dose forms. Hypromelloses refers to the family of hypromellose polymer agents.

As a powder, hypromellose is off-white to beige and may be in granules. Hypromellose is considered an inert ingredient. It has a high viscosity and is often used in ophthalmic preparations as artificial tears for dry eyes.^[2] In the US, it is available over-the-counter (OTC) in such products as Isopto Tears and Nature’s Tears.

Some examples of medications containing Hypromelloses

• Acetaminophen 500mg
• Acetaminophen 500 mg
• Aspirin Enteric Coated 81 mg
• Cetirizine Hydrochloride 10 mg
• Cyclobenzaprine Hydrochloride 10 mg
• Cyclobenzaprine Hydrochloride 10 mg
• Diclofenac Sodium Delayed Release 75 mg
• Diclofenac Sodium Delayed Release 75 mg
• Doxycycline Hyclate 100 mg
• Escitalopram Oxalate 20 mg (base)
• Escitalopram Oxalate 10 mg (base)
• Excedrin Migraine (Caplet) acetaminophen 250 mg / aspirin 250 mg / caffeine 65 mg
• Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride 25 mg
• Hydroxyzine Hydrochloride 25 mg
• Ibuprofen 200 mg
• Montelukast Sodium 10 mg (base)
• Ondansetron Hydrochloride 4 mg
• Pantoprazole Sodium Delayed-Release 40 mg
• Sildenafil Citrate 100 mg
• Tramadol Hydrochloride 50 mg

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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