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India's First Pharmaceutical Grade HPMC

Complete Documentation | Full Compliance | Proven Stability

20+ Grades AvailableUSP-NF/EP/BP/IP CompliantWHO-GMP Certified
About Pharcocel

HPMC - Pioneer for India’s Pharmaceutical Grade

Pharcocel is the first brand in India to provide pharmaceutical-grade Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) with complete documentation, stability data, and regulatory support packages.

Our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility ensures the highest purity and consistency, meeting stringent international pharmacopoeial standards including USP-NF, EP, BP and IP.

Pharcocel Manufacturing Facility

WHO-GMP Facility

State-of-the-art manufacturing with WHO-GMP certification

Full Compliance

Meets USP-NF, EP, BP and IP standards with complete certification

Complete Documentation

DMF, CEP, CoA, and method validation data package available

Stability Testing

Comprehensive stability data following ICH guidelines with full reports

Quality Systems

ISO certified quality management with rigorous testing protocols

Technical Support

Expert formulation support team to assist with product selection

HPMC Product Portfolio

20+ Pharcocel (HPMC) Grades Available

Choose from our comprehensive range of HPMC grades for various pharmaceutical applications

ProductSubstituteApplicationsCompliance
Pharcocel E 3
HPMC 3 cps
2910
Film CoatingBinder+1
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel E 5
HPMC 5 cps
2910
Film CoatingBinder+1
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel E 6
HPMC 6 cps
2910
Film CoatingBinder+1
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel E 15
HPMC 15 cps
2910
BinderFilm Coating+1
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel E 50
HPMC 50 cps
2910
BinderThickener+1
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel EW 3
HPMC 3 cps
2910
Film CoatingBinder
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel EW 5
HPMC 5 cps
2910
Film CoatingBinder
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel EW 6
HPMC 6 cps
2910
Film CoatingBinder
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel EW 15
HPMC 15 cps
2910
BinderViscosity Modifier
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel EW 50
HPMC 50 cps
2910
BinderThickener
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KC 4000 Premium
HPMC 4000 cps - Premium Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseMatrix Former+1
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KC 15000 Premium
HPMC 15000 cps - Premium Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseThickener+1
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KC 100000 Premium
HPMC 100000 cps - Premium Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseThickener
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KC 200000 Premium
HPMC 200000 cps - Premium Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseThickener
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KW 100 CR
HPMC 100 cps - CR Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseMatrix Former
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KW 4000 CR
HPMC 4000 cps - CR Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseMatrix Former
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KW 15000 CR
HPMC 15000 cps - CR Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseMatrix Former
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KW 100000 CR
HPMC 100000 cps - CR Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseMatrix Former
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel KW 200000 CR
HPMC 200000 cps - CR Grade
2208
Controlled ReleaseMatrix Former
USP-NFEPBPIP
Pharcocel BW 4000
HPMC 4000 cps
2208
Controlled ReleaseThickener
USP-NFEPBPIP
Showing 20 of 20 products
HPMC Key Applications

Versatile Pharmaceutical HPMC Applications

Pharcocel HPMC grades are designed for diverse pharmaceutical formulation needs

Film Coating

Film Coating

Aqueous coating systems for tablets with excellent adhesion, flexibility, and barrier properties.

Suitable grades: E 3, E 5, E 6
Controlled Release

Controlled Release

Sustained and modified-release matrix systems for optimized drug delivery profiles.

Suitable grades: KC Premium, KW CR series
Tablet Binder

Tablet Binder

Effective binding agent for wet granulation, dry granulation, and direct compression.

Suitable grades: E 15, E 50
Thickener & Stabilizer

Thickener & Stabilizer

Viscosity enhancer for suspensions, emulsions, and topical formulations.

Suitable grades: E 50, KC Premium series
Matrix Former

Matrix Former

Hydrophilic matrix systems for extended release and controlled drug delivery.

Suitable grades: KW CR grades
Vegetarian Capsules

Vegetarian Capsules

HPMC capsule shells as vegetarian alternative to gelatin capsules.

Suitable grades: E series
Frequently Asked Questions on HPMC

HPMC Technical Information

Common questions about HPMC and our Pharcocel range

What is HPMC (Hypromellose)?

Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC), also known as Hypromellose, is a semi-synthetic polymer derived from natural cellulose. It is one of the most versatile pharmaceutical excipients, used for film coating, controlled release, binding, and more.

What are the differences between USP Type 2208 and 2910?

USP Type 2208 (high hydroxypropoxy, low methoxy) is ideal for controlled-release matrices, while Type 2910 (low hydroxypropy, high methoxy) is perfect for film coating and binding. Type 2208 forms stronger gels, while 2910 provides better film formation.

How do I choose the right viscosity grade?

Low viscosity (3-50 cps) is ideal for film coating and spraying. Medium viscosity (100-4000 cps) works for tablet binding. High viscosity (15,000-200,000 cps) is best for controlled-release matrices and sustained drug delivery.

What's the difference between wood pulp and cotton linter sources?

Cotton linter offers inherently higher purity with minimal impurities, ideal for premium applications. Wood pulp is cost-effective with excellent batch consistency, suitable for large-scale production. Both meet pharmaceutical standards.

What documentation do you provide?

We provide complete documentation including Drug Master File (DMF), Certificate of Suitability (CEP), Certificate of Analysis (CoA), method validation data, stability studies, and full regulatory support for filings.

What are the storage and handling requirements?

Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep containers tightly closed. HPMC is hygroscopic and should be protected from humidity. Typical shelf life is 3-5 years when stored properly.

Can you provide method validation data?

Yes, we provide complete analytical method validation including specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision, detection limits, and quantitation limits for all critical quality attributes as per USP/ICH guidelines.

What is the shelf life of Pharcocel HPMC and how should it be stored?

Pharcocel HPMC has a shelf life of 3 years from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions. It should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, at temperatures below 30°C. Once opened, containers should be resealed tightly to prevent moisture absorption, which can affect viscosity and performance.

Is Pharcocel HPMC suitable for vegetarian and vegan capsule formulations?

Yes. Pharcocel HPMC is derived from natural wood pulp cellulose and is 100% plant-based, non-GMO, and free from animal-derived ingredients. It is widely used as a vegetarian and vegan alternative to gelatin in hard capsule shells, making it ideal for nutraceutical, Ayurvedic, and pharmaceutical products targeting health-conscious and vegetarian consumers.

Which Pharcocel grade should I use for aqueous film coating vs organic solvent coating?

For aqueous film coating systems (water-based), low-viscosity grades such as Pharcocel E3, E5, and E6 are recommended — they dissolve readily in water and provide smooth, uniform film formation. For organic solvent-based coating systems (ethanol/isopropanol), grades such as Pharcocel E15 and E50 are more suitable due to their solubility profile in mixed solvent systems.

Can Pharcocel HPMC be used in ophthalmic formulations?

Yes. Low-viscosity Pharcocel grades (3–50 cps) are used in ophthalmic solutions as a viscosity-enhancing agent and lubricant in artificial tear formulations and eye drops. They are non-irritating, mucoadhesive, and compatible with the ocular surface - helping prolong contact time and improve patient comfort. Pharcocel used in ophthalmic applications complies with USP and EP standards.

What is the difference between HPMC and HPC (Hydroxypropyl Cellulose)?

HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose) contains both methoxy and hydroxypropoxy substituents, making it soluble in cold water and forming thermally reversible gels. HPC (Hydroxypropyl Cellulose) contains only hydroxypropoxy groups and is soluble in both water (below 40°C) and organic solvents. HPMC is preferred for controlled-release matrix tablets and film coating, while HPC is commonly used in immediate-release tablet binding and hot-melt extrusion.

Does Pharcocel HPMC comply with food-grade regulations for use in food products?

Yes. Pharcocel HPMC is approved for food use and classified as E464 under EU food additive regulations. It is GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) certified by the US FDA and complies with the Food Chemicals Codex (FCC). It holds ISO 22000 and HACCP certifications, and is also Kosher and Halal certified — making it suitable for global food applications including gluten-free baking, sauces, emulsions, and edible coatings.

What viscosity grade of Pharcocel HPMC is recommended for tablet binding in dry granulation vs wet granulation?

For wet granulation, medium-viscosity grades (Pharcocel E15 to E50 cps) are preferred as they provide adequate binding strength when dissolved in granulating liquid. For dry granulation (roller compaction), low-to-medium viscosity grades (E5 to E15) are used as dry binders. For direct compression, fine-particle grades of low-viscosity HPMC can be added directly to the powder blend.

Is Pharcocel HPMC compatible with APIs that are sensitive to ionic excipients?

Yes. Pharcocel HPMC is a non-ionic polymer, which means it does not carry an electrical charge and will not interact with ionic APIs (whether cationic or anionic drugs). This makes it chemically compatible with a wide range of active pharmaceutical ingredients, including pH-sensitive, charge-sensitive, and protein-based APIs. It is also compatible with most commonly used excipients including PEG, PVP, talc, magnesium stearate, and lactose.

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