Nomenclature
CAS number: 9004-67-5
Cellulose methyl ether; Methocel A (Dow); Benecel M (Hercules); Celevac (Shire); Cellucon (Medo); Citrucel (GSK); Cologel (Lilly); Tearisol (Novartis); Tylose M (Clariant).
Description and references
Cellulose obtained from fibrous plant material
and partially etherified with methyl groups. Prepd from cellulose
fibers heated with caustic solution and treated with methyl chloride.
Commercial methylcellulose has a methoxyl content of 25-33% (degree
of substitution 1.5 to 2.0). Review of prepns and properties: Ott, Cellulose and Cellulose Derivatives (Wiley-Interscience,
New York, 2nd ed., 1954/55); G. K. Greminger, A. B. Savage, in Industrial Gums, R. L. Whistler, Ed. (Academic Press, New York,
2nd ed., 1973) pp 619-647. Clinical efficacy as laxative: J. W.
Hamilton et al., Dig. Dis. Sci. 33, 993 (1988). Evaluation in lens implantation surgery:
J. R. Rojas et al., Ann. Ophthalmol. 21, 389 (1989). Review of production and uses in the
food industry: P. de Mariscal, D. A. Bell in Handbook of Fat Replacers, S. Roller, S. A. Jones, Eds.
(CRC Press, Boca Raton FL, 1996) pp 145-159.
Properties
White granules. Odorless, tasteless. Sol in
cold water. Insol in hot water. An aq soln is best prepd by dispersing
the granules in hot (but not boiling) water with stirring and chilling
to +5°. The soln is then stable at room temp. Presence of inorganic
salts increases the viscosity. The soly is dependent upon degree
of substitution. Clear films may be cast from aq soln.Use
As a substitute for water-soluble gums; to render
paper greaseproof, in adhesives, as thickening agent in cosmetics,
as protective colloid in emulsions, as binder and stabilizer in foods.
As fat replacer in the formulation of dietetic foods. Pharmaceutic
aid (suspending agent).
Therapeutic Category
Laxative; ocular lubricant.
Therapeutic Category (Veterinary)
Laxative.
Keywords
Laxative/Cathartic