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Carboxymethylcellulose | CAS No: 9000-11-7 | GMP-certified suppliers
A medication that provides symptomatic relief from ocular burning, irritation, and dryness associated with environmental exposure, supporting eye surface protection and comfort.
Therapeutic categories
Primary indications
- Indicated for the symptomatic relief of burning, irritation and discomfort of the eyes due to dryness or exposure to wind or sun
Product Snapshot
- Carboxymethylcellulose is available in multiple formulation types including ophthalmic solutions, gels, sprays, patches, and oral liquids
- It is primarily indicated for the symptomatic relief of ocular discomfort related to dryness or environmental exposure
- The product holds approved status in regulatory markets including the US and Canada, with some forms investigational
Clinical Overview
Clinically, carboxymethylcellulose is indicated for the symptomatic relief of ocular surface discomfort such as burning, irritation, and dryness caused by environmental factors like wind or sun exposure. It is a component of many artificial tear products intended to alleviate dry eye symptoms, particularly in aqueous tear deficiency states. The polymer’s anionic charge and mucoadhesive properties facilitate prolonged retention on the ocular surface, enhancing its therapeutic utility.
Pharmacodynamically, carboxymethylcellulose interacts with human corneal epithelial cells, contributing to corneal epithelial wound healing and reduction of ocular irritation in a dose-dependent manner. Clinical data demonstrate a reduction in the frequency of dry eye symptoms when administered topically compared to placebo. Additionally, it exhibits cytoprotective effects on the ocular surface, reduces epithelial defects during procedures such as LASIK, and supports contact lens tolerance by mediating protective surface interactions.
The mechanism of action involves binding of the glucopyranose subunits to GLUT-1 glucose receptors on corneal epithelial cells. This interaction promotes cell attachment, migration, and re-epithelialization, with an approximate residence time on corneal cells of two hours as demonstrated in binding assays.
From an absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) perspective, carboxymethylcellulose is primarily a topical agent with minimal systemic absorption, given its high molecular weight and polymeric nature.
Safety considerations include its general biocompatibility and low toxicity profile when used as intended in ophthalmic and oral applications. However, formulation pH, viscosity, and sterility are critical quality attributes to ensure ocular tolerability and efficacy.
Notable usage contexts include over-the-counter artificial tear products and formulations designed for post-surgical ocular surface protection. Regulatory status includes approved and investigational categories in various regions for ophthalmic use.
For API procurement, it is essential to source pharmaceutical-grade carboxymethylcellulose meeting relevant pharmacopeial standards such as USP or Ph. Eur. Quality control should confirm substitution degree, viscosity, microbiological purity, and absence of contaminants to ensure consistent pharmaceutical performance.
Identification & chemistry
| Generic name | Carboxymethylcellulose |
|---|---|
| Molecule type | Small molecule |
| CAS | 9000-11-7 |
| UNII | 05JZI7B19X |
| DrugBank ID | DB11059 |
Pharmacology
| Summary | Carboxymethylcellulose targets GLUT-1 glucose receptors on corneal epithelial cells, enhancing binding and residence time on the ocular surface. It promotes corneal epithelial cell attachment, migration, and wound re-epithelialization, contributing to epithelial healing processes. Pharmacodynamically, it exerts cytoprotective effects that reduce eye irritation and support ocular surface integrity in dry eye conditions and procedural applications. |
|---|---|
| Mechanism of action | Carboxymethylcellulose binds to the surface of corneal epithelial cells via its glucopyranose subunits binding to glucose receptors GLUT-1 . The residence time of carboxymethylcellulose bound to corneal cells is approximately 2 hours as indicated by a short-term binding assay . Binding of carboxymethylcellulose to the matrix proteins stimulated corneal epithelial cell attachment, migration, and re-epithelialization of corneal wounds . |
| Pharmacodynamics | In a randomized clinical study of patients with mild or moderate forms of eye dryness, ophthalmic treatment with sodium carboxymethylcellulose resulted in a diminished frequency of symptoms compared to the placebo group . Carboxymethylcellulose interacts with human corneal epithelial cells to facilitate corneal epithelial wound healing and attenuate eye irritation in a dose-dependent manner . It exhibits protective actions on the ocular surface in various applications; it mediates cytoprotective effects on the ocular surface when applied prior to contact lenses and reduces the incidence of epithelial defects during LASIK . |
Targets
| Target | Organism | Actions |
|---|---|---|
| Solute carrier family 2, facilitated glucose transporter member 1 | Humans | binder |
ADME / PK
| Absorption | No pharmacokinetic data available. |
|---|---|
| Half-life | No pharmacokinetic data available. |
| Protein binding | No pharmacokinetic data available. |
| Metabolism | No pharmacokinetic data available. |
| Route of elimination | No pharmacokinetic data available. |
| Volume of distribution | No pharmacokinetic data available. |
| Clearance | No pharmacokinetic data available. |
Formulation & handling
- Carboxymethylcellulose is a small molecule API used in multiple routes including topical, ophthalmic, oral, and subcutaneous, with no peptide or biologic classification.
- Formulations are available as patches, solutions, suspensions, and gels, requiring consideration for stability especially in aqueous ophthalmic environments.
- Handling should account for its solid state with hygroscopic potential, requiring protection from moisture and contamination during storage and processing.
Regulatory status
| Lifecycle | The API's key patents have expired or are approaching expiry in the US and Canada, allowing for generic competition and resulting in a mature market environment in both regions. |
|---|
| Markets | US, Canada |
|---|
Supply Chain
| Supply chain summary | The supply landscape for Carboxymethylcellulose includes multiple originator companies supplying branded products primarily in the US and Canadian markets. These branded formulations cover various indications such as acne treatment and ocular lubricants. Patent expiries in this segment suggest the presence or imminent entry of generic competitors, expanding sourcing options for buyers. |
|---|
Safety
| Toxicity | Rat oral LD50, rabbit dermal LD50, and rat inhalation LC50 of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose are 27000 mg/kg, >2 g/kg, and >5800 mg/m^3 (4 hours), respectively [MSDS]. |
|---|
- Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose exhibits low acute toxicity with oral LD50 in rats of 27,000 mg/kg
- Dermal exposure shows minimal toxicity, with rabbit dermal LD50 exceeding 2 g/kg
- Inhalation LC50 in rats is greater than 5800 mg/m³ over a 4-hour exposure period, indicating low inhalation hazard under normal handling conditions
Carboxymethylcellulose is a type of Emollients and protectives
Emollients and protectives are an essential category of pharmaceutical Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) used in various topical formulations. These substances play a crucial role in protecting and moisturizing the skin, making them widely utilized in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.
Emollients are substances that help restore and maintain the skin's natural moisture barrier, preventing water loss and promoting hydration. They act by forming a thin film on the skin's surface, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and improving the skin's texture and elasticity. Common emollients include natural oils, such as jojoba oil, almond oil, and shea butter, as well as synthetic compounds like mineral oil and petrolatum.
Protectives, on the other hand, are API ingredients that shield the skin from harmful external factors, such as irritants, allergens, and environmental pollutants. They create a physical barrier that prevents the penetration of harmful substances into the skin. Protectives are often combined with emollients to provide a dual function of hydration and protection.
The applications of emollients and protectives are vast and encompass a wide range of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products. They are commonly found in moisturizers, creams, lotions, ointments, balms, and sunscreens. These APIs are especially beneficial for individuals with dry or sensitive skin, as they can soothe irritation, reduce redness, and alleviate discomfort.
In conclusion, emollients and protectives are vital categories of pharmaceutical APIs that provide hydration and protection to the skin. Their versatile applications make them crucial ingredients in a wide array of topical formulations, contributing to the overall health and well-being of the skin.
Carboxymethylcellulose API manufacturers & distributors
Compare qualified Carboxymethylcellulose API suppliers worldwide. We currently have 1 companies offering Carboxymethylcellulose API, with manufacturing taking place in 1 different countries. Use the table below to review supplier type, countries of origin, certifications, product portfolio and GMP audit availability.
| Supplier | Type | Country | Product origin | Certifications | Portfolio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tenatra Exports Private L... | Distributor | India | India | BSE/TSE, CoA, FDA, GMP, MSDS | 263 products |
When sending a request, specify which Carboxymethylcellulose API quality you need: for example EP (Ph. Eur.), USP, JP, BP, or another pharmacopoeial standard, as well as the required grade (base, salt, micronised, specific purity, etc.).
Use the list above to find high-quality Carboxymethylcellulose API suppliers. For example, you can select GMP, FDA or ISO certified suppliers. Visit our help page to learn more about sourcing APIs via Pharmaoffer.
