10 Questions You Should to Know about how to make HPMC solution

Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose HPMC is a versatile cellulose ether widely used in various industries, including construction, daily chemical, personal care and so much more.

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What is HPMC?

Cellulose-derived HPMC is a polymer that readily dissolves in water, a natural polymer found in plant cell walls. It is produced by treating cellulose with a combination of alkali and etherification agents, which results in the substitution of hydroxyl groups with methyl and hydroxypropyl groups. This modification improves the solubility and other physical properties of cellulose, making it suitable for various applications.

Properties of HPMC

HPMC is a white or off-white, odourless, and tasteless powder soluble in water and some organic solvents. Its physical properties, such as viscosity, gelation, and film-forming ability, can be modified by adjusting the degree of substitution, molecular weight, and other parameters during production.

HPMC has excellent water retention, thickening, and binding properties, which makes it a popular ingredient in a wide range of products, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food.

Uses of HPMC

1. Pharmaceutical Industry

HPMC is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry as a binder, disintegrant, and coating agent for tablets and capsules. It is also used as a stabilizer and viscosity modifier in liquid dosage forms, such as syrups and suspensions.

2. Food Industry

In the food industry, HPMC is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in various products, such as sauces, dressings, and ice cream. It is also used as a coating agent for confectionery products and as a bulking agent in low-calorie foods.

3. Cosmetics Industry

HPMC is a popular ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products due to its film-forming, thickening, and emulsifying properties. It is used in products such as shampoos, creams, lotions, and mascara.

4. Construction Industry

HPMC could be used as a thickener, binder, and water retention agent in cement-based mortars, grouts, and plasters. It also acts as a lubricant during the extrusion of gypsum-based materials.

Benefits of HPMC

Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC) is a versatile cellulose ether that offers several benefits across various industries. Next, we will explore the benefits across various industries. Let me explain how they can enhance the performance and sustainability of products.

1. Non-Toxic and Safe

One of the most significant benefits of HPMC is its non-toxic and safe nature. HPMC is derived from natural cellulose and is widely used in food and pharmaceutical products. Various regulatory authorities, such as the FDA and the European Food Safety Authority have approved it, which underscores its safety for human consumption.

In the pharmaceutical industry, HPMC is used as a binder, disintegrant, and coating agent for tablets and capsules. It is also used as a stabilizer and viscosity modifier in liquid dosage forms, such as syrups and suspensions. HPMC is preferred over other cellulose ethers due to its low toxicity and compatibility with other excipients.

In the food industry, HPMC is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in various products, such as sauces, dressings, and ice cream. It is also used as a coating agent for confectionery products and as a bulking agent in low-calorie foods.

HPMC is non-toxic with a safe nature. It’s an ideal ingredient in various products, particularly when in contact with human skin.

2. Versatile

Another significant benefit of HPMC is its versatility. HPMC is a highly customizable ingredient that can be modified to suit different product requirements. Its physical properties, such as viscosity, gelation, and film-forming ability, can be modified by adjusting the degree of substitution, molecular weight, and other parameters during production.

HPMC is preferred over other cellulose ethers in the pharmaceutical industry due to its low viscosity and high solubility. These properties enable the formulation of drugs with improved bioavailability, solubility, and stability. HPMC is also compatible with various active ingredients, making it an ideal excipient in drug delivery systems.

In the food industry, HPMC is used as a thickener, emulsifier, and stabilizer in various products. HPMC is a versatile ingredient. According to viscosity and gelation properties, it is commonly used in many products. It is particularly useful in sauces and dressings because it helps create a smooth and consistent texture. Besides, HPMC is also used as a fat substitute. Mimicking the texture and taste of fatty foods in low-calorie baked goods.

HPMC is a useful ingredient in the construction industry. It can thicken, bind, and retain water in cement-based mortars, grouts, and plasters. HPMC also helps extrude gypsum-based materials by acting as a lubricant. It can improve the workability, adhesion, and durability of construction materials because of their viscosity and binding properties.

Overall, the versatility of HPMC makes it an attractive ingredient in various products and applications. Its physical properties can also be adjusted to meet specific product requirements.

3. Enhanced Performance

HPMC can enhance the performance of products by improving their viscosity, stability, and other properties.

In the pharmaceutical industry, HPMC is used as a binder, disintegrant, and coating agent for tablets and capsules. It improves the tablet hardness, disintegration time, and dissolution rate of drugs, leading to improved bioavailability and efficacy.

HPMC is also used as a stabilizer and viscosity modifier in liquid dosage forms, such as syrups and suspensions. It improves liquid dosage forms’ stability and shelf life by preventing sedimentation and flocculation.

In the food industry, HPMC is also used to improve the texture and stability of products. It is used as a thickener and emulsifier in products like ice cream, sauces, and dressings, giving them a smooth and consistent texture. HPMC is also a coating agent for confectionery products. Candies, to be specific. It gives them a glossy appearance and improves their shelf life.

In the construction industry, HPMC is used to improve cement-based materials’ workability, adhesion, and durability. As a water retention agent, it prevents rapid water loss during curing. And it improves the strength and durability of the final product. HPMC also acts as a thickener and binder, improving the workability and adhesion of the mortar or grout.

Overall, HPMC can enhance the performance of products in various industries, leading to improved efficacy, stability, and durability.

4. Sustainable

HPMC is a sustainable ingredient that can help companies reduce their environmental footprint. HPMC is derived from natural cellulose, which is a renewable resource. It’s a more sustainable option for manufacturing HPMC. It requires less energy and fewer resources than synthetic ingredients.

In the food industry, HPMC can be used as a fat replacer in low-calorie foods, reducing the fat required in the product. Animal fats and oils normally cause a significant environmental impact. Therefore, it helps reduce the environmental impact of food production.

In the construction industry, using HPMC can lead to more sustainable construction practices. HPMC improves the workability and adhesion of cement-based materials. It reduces the amount of material required and minimizes waste. Eventually, it can lead to more efficient and sustainable construction practices.

5. Cost-Effective

HPMC is a cost-effective ingredient that can help companies reduce their production costs. HPMC is widely available and can be purchased in large quantities at a reasonable cost. Its versatility and customizable properties make it an ideal ingredient in various products, leading to cost savings in production.

In the pharmaceutical industry, using HPMC can lead to cost savings in drug development and production. HPMC is a highly compatible and customizable excipient, making it an ideal ingredient in drug delivery systems. Its low viscosity and high solubility make it an attractive option for improving drug bioavailability and efficacy.

In the food industry, the use of HPMC can lead to cost savings in product development and production. HPMC is a highly customizable ingredient that can be modified to suit different product requirements. Its viscosity and gelation properties make it an ideal ingredient in products that require a smooth and consistent texture. HPMC is also a fat replacer in low-calorie foods, reducing the cost of expensive animal fats and oils.

In the construction industry, the use of HPMC can lead to cost savings in material production and construction. Ultimately, it can drive more efficient and cost-effective construction practices.

Conclusion & WOTAI

HPMC is a versatile ingredient that offers several benefits across various industries. Its non-toxic and safe nature makes it an ideal ingredient in products that come in contact with human skin or are ingested. Its versatility and customizable properties make it an attractive option for various products and applications. Overall, HPMC is a valuable ingredient that can enhance the performance and sustainability of products across various industries.

WOTAI is confident to provide our consumers with the best quality HPMC products. We have a very professional team of customized consulting services to help you find the best solution. If you have more questions about HPMC or other related raw materials, we are always available to answer your questions and satisfy your needs.

Stan GlabMissy Lowery Capsugel

Dietary supplement consumers prefer capsules over every other dosage form. According to a study by the Natural Marketing Institute (NMI), Harleysville, PA, 42 percent of supplement users prefer capsules1. Last year, more than 50 percent of all new probiotics were launched in capsules, according to a report from Mintel, London, UK2. 

When it comes to delivering liquid supplements, softgels and liquid-filled hard capsules (LFHCs) have maintained strong consumer followings. About 28 percent of supplement users prefer softgels and 23 percent prefer LFHCs, while 18 percent prefer liquids and 16 percent prefer ready-to-drink beverages, according to the NMI study. Overall, consumers perceive capsules as convenient, easy to swallow, easy to digest, and fast acting. They also offer product developers several formulation advantages. 

Many companies outsource liquid capsule filling and sealing to a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) to avoid investing in liquid-filling equipment. CDMOs can also offer the expertise of a product development team to create an appealing custom product.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit how to make HPMC solution.

Here are 10 key questions to ask a CDMO—and yourself—about product concept, ingredient characteristics, capsule choice, and contractor qualifications:

1. What kind of product are you developing? Does your product contain multiple ingredients?

Combination supplements have become more popular as consumers seek products that meet multiple health needs in a single dose. However, because of the “less-is-more” movement (also known as the clean-label trend), these same consumers are asking for products with fewer excipients. Your formulator should aim to balance these competing needs without sacrificing product effectiveness. 

Additionally, does the product require immediate, extended, delayed, or targeted release? Some ingredients like melatonin and caffeine can be formulated to release immediately and over an extended period. Probiotics and enzymes, however, work best when delivered in the intestines, and may require enteric protection. You and your CDMO should consider technologies that allow you to protect your ingredients and maximize bioavailability, while minimizing the use of coatings or other additives. 

2. How can capsules improve brand identity?

Consumers recognize and remember dosage forms primarily by color and less by shape, size, or brand name3. Ask your manufacturer about color options, including two-tone, opaque, translucent, and transparent capsules. Also ask your CDMO about imprints. Logos, icons, slogans, numbers, and other identifiers help differentiate your product. 

3. Do your customers have lifestyle or cultural needs that affect your choice of capsules?

Your customers’ dietary restrictions and/or religious customs may impact the type of capsule you use. Ask your manufacturer if halal- or kosher-certified capsules are available. To appeal to the growing vegetarian market, a capsule made of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) might be needed. Your CDMO should be able to provide capsules with vegetarian and/or vegan certifications. 

The demand for clean-label products is on the rise, especially among consumers who value natural, vegetarian, and organic products. Fortunately, most capsule formulations require few excipients. Ask your CDMO about capsules certified as non-GMO and/or “made with organic” designation to further appeal to these consumers. 

4. Do the key ingredients pose delivery challenges? 

Some ingredients are unstable when exposed to light, oxygen, moisture, or stomach acids and that can compromise their effectiveness before or after consumption. To protect your ingredients and maximize performance, ask your manufacturer about softgels and LFHCs that prevent premature activation, oxidation, and degradation. 

Naturally stinky or bitter ingredients are a turn off. Ask your CDMO about softgels and capsules with odor-and taste-masking properties.

Are your ingredients hydrophilic or lipophilic? The solubility characteristics of your ingredients can influence a product’s bioavailability and effectiveness. Whether you’re using hard or soft capsules, it’s important to determine ingredient and capsule shell compatibility. Softgels use plasticizers like glycerol or sorbitol to maintain their elasticity. These plasticizers may migrate into the fill and affect ingredient solubility or compromise the dissolution of the finished product. The low oxygen permeability of hard capsule shells protects the active ingredients from oxidation. Vegetarian hard capsules contain little moisture and are suitable for hygroscopic and moisture-sensitive ingredients. Because hard capsules don’t use plasticizers, they are neutral in taste and mask odors. They also tolerate fills as warm as 70°C, whereas softgels only accept fills as warm as 35°C. Hard capsules also accept fibrous materials in suspensions or pasty fills, which are difficult to encapsulate in softgels because they impair sealing.

5. Which technologies can help overcome delivery challenges? 

LFHCs protect unstable ingredients—such as resveratrol, astaxathin and other carotenoids, L-arginine, and L-carnitine—from oxidation. The ingredients are stored, mixed, and filled under a nitrogen blanket to eliminate oxygen. The filled capsule is then hermetically sealed using proprietary fusion technology to prevent further oxygen penetration before consumption4. This seal provides six times the seal zone of a banded capsule and is more effective in preventing leaks5. In addition to protecting highly concentrated oils from oxidation, this technology masks the tastes and odors of fish oils, especially krill oils, while they’re in the bottle and at consumption. Ask your CDMO what liquid delivery technologies best suit your product. 

For delivery of moisture- and acid-sensitive ingredients, consider acid-resistant HPMC capsules. They have been shown to delay opening for an average of 52 minutes without the use of enteric coatings6. They resist opening in the stomach’s acidic environment but release once the pH exceeds 6.8 at or near the entrance of the intestines. Low-moisture HPMC capsules also shield ingredients from moisture that may permeate packaging. 

An enteric coating can be applied to softgels to achieve a similar release profile. However, the addition of a coating requires a second manufacturing process and may be unappealing to clean-label consumers. 

6. What are some liquid formulation solutions for solid or semi-solid ingredients? 

Does your formula have a large amount of solids? Can they be suspended in a liquid or must they be solubilized for better absorption? For some ingredients, micronization may improve solubility and absorption. For example, when L-arginine is micronized and solubilized, you can formulate it as a free-flowing liquid at a higher concentration per dose. Encapsulating this fill in a hard capsule in a nitrogen-flushed environment has also been shown to offer superior stability compared to other forms of L-arginine. Micronization can also improve the emulsion characteristics of water-insoluble ingredients and even help create a self-emulsifying formulation. 

CoQ10 is available in softgels, powders, and effervescent tablets. However, a clinical study showed that when this coenzyme is solubilized in a lipid emulsifier and delivered in a nitrogen-flushed and fused LFHC, it had 30 percent better bioavailability than the other dosage forms7. 

7. Which polymer is best for your ingredients? 

The compatibility of the capsule polymer and ingredients is key to maintaining a product’s integrity and efficacy. If your ingredient is sensitive to moisture, light, and/or oxygen, the correct polymer can make all the difference. 

While softgels have been widely used for liquids, they provide a less effective barrier. A typical softgel contains about 16 to 20 percent moisture, which ingredients can absorb and thus degrade the shell or fill. A softgel’s plasticizers can create micro-channels, which allow oxygen to enter, odors and tastes to seep out, and ingredients to migrate into the shell. Antioxidants may help block smells in the bottle, but some people don’t want added ingredients and some can’t tolerate flavorings. 

Again, hard capsules contain less moisture than softgels. More specifically, fish, bovine, and porcine gelatin capsules contain 13 percent moisture, while HPMC capsules contain 3 to 6 percent. All types of hard capsules are more suitable than softgels for hygroscopic ingredients such as probiotics, enzymes, herbal extracts, choline chloride, L-arginine, L-carnitine, and betaine. 

The absence of plasticizers in hard capsules eliminates micro-channels. This makes hard capsules a better fit for aromatic nutritional oils and marine oils than softgels because they effectively block smells and mitigate oxidation. 

Pullulan, which is naturally fermented from tapioca, offers the best oxygen barrier of all—even better than gelatin and HPMC—without the use of additives. Capsules made of pullulan are also vegetarian; starch-, gluten-, and preservative-free; and non-GMO Project verified. 

8. How can you alter ingredients’ release profile? 

If you are delivering a combination of ingredients or an ingredient requiring delayed and/or targeted release, you should consider capsule-in-capsule technology. A vegetarian capsule-in-capsule is especially helpful for delivering moisture-sensitive prebiotic-probiotic supplements. The outer capsule that contains the prebiotic dissolves first so it can prepare the environment for the probiotic in the inner capsule, which dissolves later to reach the intestinal tract. 

Capsule-in-capsule technology can also combine incompatible ingredients or ingredients that would separate after mixing. Given that oil and water don’t mix, filling an inner capsule of krill oil into an outer capsule of water-based L-carnitine allows you to overcome this issue. Isolating these two ingredients into separate compartments also improves stability and efficacy and removes the burden of taking two dosage forms for brain health. 

This technology can also be used for extended-release formulas. Melatonin is a good example. Solubilized in a water-based system, the melatonin liquid in the outer capsule is available for immediate release. Melatonin beads in the inner capsule dissolve later at different intervals due to the varied thickness of the coatings, thus extending the effects of this sleep-aid. 

Beads suspended in an LFHC can also offer delayed- or extended-release profiles. For example, caffeine beads can be suspended in a caffeine liquid. When ingested, the outer capsule dissolves and releases the liquid immediately, then the beads dissolve slowly over time. 

9. What are key areas to explore when vetting a CDMO? 

Your brand representative should review the complete capabilities, processes, and controls that a CDMO can provide. Aspects to examine include how long the manufacturer has been in the industry, the condition of its facilities, the equipment being used (especially pertaining to liquid filling), and the training records of the staff involved. 

In addition, the manufacturer should inform you of the certifications it holds for its products and services. This can include vegan, kosher, halal, TGA, NSS, ISO, UL, Non-GMO Project, and Vegetarian Society certifications. If the facility has been audited by the FDA, what were the results? 

As the brand holder, you are responsible for the safety of your products. That means you need to know the processes in place for identifying ingredients, microbial and heavy metal contamination, and residual solvents according to the standards. With the GMP regulations under 21 CFR 111 and now the most recent Food Safety Modernization Act regulations—which require companies of all sizes to incorporate risk management as well as cGMPs—it is essential that you meet with your CDMO and review records. 

To ensure that GMPs are followed, review batch records to verify that tests were completed and recorded properly for all materials. You could also attend a production run to underscore the importance you place on quality products.

Finally, ask for references to determine if the manufacturer has the experience and resources necessary to deliver your product. For example, if you’re creating a product for mass-market distribution, the manufacturer should know the regulations for labeling and shelf-life. 

10. Can the CDMO scale to your distribution and product launch requirements? 

It is imperative to visit the manufacturing facility and meet the team responsible for production, including the business development executive and scientific formulators. Verify that the manufacturer can meet your production volume requirements. If the most a CDMO has ever made is 5 million units and you plan to order 100 million units, can the manufacturer handle it? What is its surge capacity? The manufacturer should demonstrate its record of success working on similar types of products. 

References 

1. Supplements/OTC/Rx Consumer Report, 5th Ed. Natural Marketing Institute. . 

2. Global New Products Database, Region: Canada and US. Mintel.  

3. Which drug forms do patients and physicians prefer? Capsugel. . 

4. Licaps Fusion from Capsugel, Greenville, SC. 

5. Band-sealing research and development study. Capsugel, Colmar, France. September . 6. Amo, R. DRcaps capsules achieve delayed release properties for nutritional ingredients in human clinical study. Capsugel-commissioned study conducted by BioImages Research, Glasgow, Scotland. . 

7. CoQ10 study. Capsugel-commissioned study conducted by Accutest Research Laboratory, Mumbai India. . 

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