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'''Methylcellulose''' (or '''methyl cellulose''') is a [[chemical compound]] derived from [[cellulose]]. It is a [[hydrophile|hydrophilic]] white powder in pure form and dissolves in cold (but not in hot) water, forming a clear viscous solution or gel. It is sold under a variety of trade names and is used as a thickener and [[emulsifier]] in various food and cosmetic products, and also as a treatment of [[constipation]]. Like cellulose, it is not digestible, not toxic, and not [[allergenic]].
{{DrugProjectFormSinglePage
|authorTag=<!--Overview-->{{RB}}
|OTC=Yes
|genericName=Methylcellulose
|aOrAn=a
|drugClass=OTC laxative
|indicationType=treatment
|indication=[[constipation]]
|adverseReactions=[[flatulence]] and [[distension]]


== Chemistry ==


Chemically, methylcellulose is a [[methyl]] [[ether]] of cellulose, arising from substituting the [[hydrogen]] atoms of some of cellulose's [[hydroxyl group]]s  -OH with [[methyl group]]s -CH<sub>3</sub>, forming -OCH<sub>3</sub> groups.
<!--Black Box Warning-->
|blackBoxWarningTitle=<span style="color:#FF0000;">ConditionName: </span>
|blackBoxWarningBody=<i><span style="color:#FF0000;">ConditionName: </span></i>


Different kinds of methylcellulose can be prepared depending on the number of hydroxyl groups so substituted. Cellulose is a [[polymer]] consisting of numerous linked [[glucose]] molecules, each of which exposes three hydroxyl groups. The ''Degree of Substitution'' (DS) of a given form of methylcellulose is defined as the average number of substituted hydroxyl groups per glucose. The theoretical maximum is thus a DS of 3.0, however more typical values are 1.3 - 2.6.


Different methylcellulose preparations can also differ in the average length of their polymer backbones.
<!--Adult Indications and Dosage-->


Methylcellulose does not occur naturally and is synthetically produced by heating cellulose with caustic solution (e.g. a solution of [[sodium hydroxide]]) and treating it with [[methyl chloride]].
<!--FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Adult)-->
|fdaLIADAdult=====Indications====
* helps restore and maintain regularity
* relieves constipation (irregularity)
* for constipation associated with other bowel disorders like [[IBS]] when recommended by a doctor
* generally produces a bowel movement in 12- 72 hours


The [[CAS registry number|CAS number]] of methylcellulose is 9004-67-5.
====Dosage====
* Take this product (child or adult dose) with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of water or other fluid. Taking this product without enough liquid may case choking. See choking warning.


== Solubility and temperature ==
: [[File:Methycellulose Dosage.png|none|500px]]
|offLabelAdultGuideSupport=There is limited information regarding <i>Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in adult patients.


Methylcellulose [[solubility|dissolves]] in cold water. Higher DS-values result in lower solubility, because the [[polar molecule|polar]] hydroxyl groups are masked. The chemical is not soluble in hot water, which has the paradoxical effect that heating a saturated solution of methylcellulose will turn it solid, because methylcellulose will [[precipitation (chemistry)|precipitate]] out. The temperature at which this occurs depends on DS-value, with higher DS-values giving lower precipitation temperatures.
<!--Non–Guideline-Supported Use (Adult)-->
|offLabelAdultNoGuideSupport=There is limited information regarding <i>Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in adult patients.


Preparing a solution of methylcellulose with cold water is difficult however: as the powder comes into contact with water, a gluey layer forms around it, and the inside remains dry. A better way is to first mix the powder with hot water, so that the methylcellulose particles are well dispersed in the water, and cool down this [[dispersion]] while stirring, leading to the dissolution of those particles.
<!--Pediatric Indications and Dosage-->


== Uses ==
<!--FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Pediatric)-->
|fdaLIADPed=====Dosage====
* Take this product (child or adult dose) with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of water or other fluid. Taking this product without enough liquid may case choking. See choking warning.


Methylcellulose has an extremely wide range of uses, of which several are described below.
: [[File:Methycellulose Dosage.png|none|500px]]
|offLabelPedGuideSupport=There is limited information regarding <i>Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in pediatric patients.


=== Scientifically Advanced Cookery ===
<!--Non–Guideline-Supported Use (Pediatric)-->
|offLabelPedNoGuideSupport=There is limited information regarding <i>Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in pediatric patients.


Methylcellulose, as a [[gel]], has the unique property of setting when hot and [[melting]] when cold. This technique is currently being developed at the [[University of Nottingham]], in co-ordination with leading culinary alchemist [[Heston Blumenthal]]. Blumenthal's wishes were to "make a warm 'ice cream' or 'ice lolly' on a stick, which the customer will have to eat before it cools down and melts.".
<!--Contraindications-->
|contraindications=<!--Warnings-->
=== Thickener and emulsifier ===
|warnings=* Choking: taking this product without adequate fluid may cause it to swell and block your throat or esophagus and may cause choking. Do not take this product if you have difficulty in swallowing. If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing or breathing after taking this product, seek immediate medical attention.


Methylcellulose is often added to [[Shampoo|hair shampoo]]s, [[tooth paste]]s and liquid soaps, to generate their characteristic thick consistency. This it also done for foods, for example [[ice cream]] or whipped cream. Methylcellulose is also an important [[emulsifier]], preventing the separation of two mixed liquids.
* Ask a doctor before use if you have
:* a sudden change in bowel habits that persists for two weeks
:* abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting


The [[E number]] of methylcellulose as food additive is E461.
* Stop use and ask a doctor if
:* constipation lasts more than 7 days
:* you have rectal bleeding
:* These could be signs of a serious condition.


=== Treatment of constipation ===
* Keep out of reach of children.
* In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.
|clinicalTrials=* [[flatulence]]
* [[distension]]
* [[intestinal obstruction]]
|postmarketing=There is limited information regarding <i>Postmarketing Experience</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.


When eaten, methylcellulose is not absorbed by the intestines but passes through the digestive tract undisturbed. It attracts large amounts of water into the [[Colon (anatomy)|colon]], producing a softer and bulkier stool. It is used to treat [[constipation]], [[diverticulosis]], [[hemorrhoids]] and [[irritable bowel syndrome]]. It should be taken with sufficient amounts of fluid to prevent [[dehydration]].


Because it absorbs water and potentially toxic materials and increases viscosity, it can also be used to treat [[diarrhea]].


A well-known trade name of methylcellulose when used as a drug is '''Citrucel''' by [[GlaxoSmithKline]], but [[generic drug|generic versions]] are also widely available.
<!--Drug Interactions-->
|drugInteractions=<!--Use in Specific Populations-->
|useInPregnancyAUS=* '''Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) Pregnancy Category'''


=== Lubricant ===
There is no Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) guidance on usage of {{PAGENAME}} in women who are pregnant.
|useInLaborDelivery=There is no FDA guidance on use of {{PAGENAME}} during labor and delivery.
|useInNursing=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to nursing mothers.
|useInPed=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to pediatric patients.
|useInGeri=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to geriatric patients.
|useInGender=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to specific gender populations.
|useInRace=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} with respect to specific racial populations.
|useInRenalImpair=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} in patients with renal impairment.
|useInHepaticImpair=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} in patients with hepatic impairment.
|useInReproPotential=There is no FDA guidance on the use of {{PAGENAME}} in women of reproductive potentials and males.
|useInImmunocomp=There is no FDA guidance one the use of {{PAGENAME}} in patients who are immunocompromised.


Methylcellulose is used as a variable [[viscosity]] personal lubricant; it is the main ingredient in [[K-Y Jelly]].
<!--Administration and Monitoring-->
|administration=* Oral
|monitoring=There is limited information regarding <i>Monitoring</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.


=== Artificial tears and saliva ===


Solutions containing methylcellulose or similar cellulose derivatives (see below) are used as substitute for [[tears]] or [[saliva]] if the natural production of these fluids is disturbed.


=== Paper and textile sizing ===
<!--IV Compatibility-->
|IVCompat=There is limited information regarding <i>IV Compatibility</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.


Methylcellulose is used as [[sizing]] in the production of papers and textiles. It protects the fibers from absorbing water or oil.
<!--Overdosage-->
|overdose=There is limited information regarding <i>Overdose</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.


=== Glue and binder ===
<!--Pharmacology-->
Methylcellulose can be employed as a mild [[glue]] which can be washed away with water. This is used for example in the fixation of delicate pieces of art.


Methylcellulose is the main ingredient in many [[wallpaper]] pastes.
<!--Drug box 2-->
|drugBox=: [[File:Methycellulose Wiki str.png|thumb|none|600px|This image is provided by the Wikipedia.]]


It is also used as a binder in [[pastel|pastel crayons]].


Methylcellulose is used in book conservation to loosen and clean off old glue from spines and bookboards.


=== Construction materials ===
<!--Mechanism of Action-->
|mechAction=* Bulk-forming fiber laxative


Methylcellulose finds a major application in construction materials. It is added to [[mortar (masonry)|mortar]] dry mixes to improve the mortar's properties such as water retention, viscosity, adhesion to surfaces etc.
<!--Structure-->
|structure======ACTIVE INGREDIENT (IN EACH CAPLET)=====
* Methylcellulose (a non-allergenic fiber) 500mg


=== Cell culture/virology ===
=====INACTIVE INGREDIENTS=====
* crospovidone, dibasic calcium phosphate, FD&C yellow no. 6 aluminum lake, magnesium stearate, maltodextrin, povidone, sodium lauryl sulfate


Methylcellulose is also used in [[cell culture]] to study [[Virus|viral]] replication.  Methylcellulose is dissolved in the same nutrient containing [[Growth medium|media]] that cells are normally grown in.  A [[Monolayer#Biology|single layer of cells]] are grown on a flat surface, then infected with a virus for a short time. The strength of the viral sample used will determine how many cells get infected during this time.  The thick methylcellulose media is then added on top of the cells in place of normal liquid media.  As the viruses replicate in the infected cells they are able to spread between cells whose membrances touch each other, but are trapped when they enter the methylcellulose. Only cells closely neighboring an infected cell will become infected and die.  This leaves small regions of dead cells called [[Viral plaque|plaques]] in a larger background of living uninfected cells.  The number of plaques formed is determined by the strength of the original sample.
* each caplet contains: calcium 10mg


=== Special effects ===
<!--Pharmacodynamics-->
|PD=There is limited information regarding <i>Pharmacodynamics</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.


The slimy, gooey appearance of an appropriate preparation of methylcellulose with water, in addition to its non-toxic, non-allergenic, and edible properties, makes it popular for use in special effects for [[motion picture]]s and [[television]] wherever vile slimes must be simulated.  In the film ''[[Ghostbusters]],'' for example, the gooey substance that supernatural entities used to “slime” the Ghostbusters was mostly a thick water solution of methylcellulose.
<!--Pharmacokinetics-->
|PK=There is limited information regarding <i>Pharmacokinetics</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.


== Related compounds ==
<!--Nonclinical Toxicology-->
|nonClinToxic=There is limited information regarding <i>Nonclinical Toxicology</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.


Similar compounds derived from cellulose include [[carboxymethyl cellulose]] and [[hydroxypropyl cellulose]]. See: [[:Category:Cellulose]].
<!--Clinical Studies-->
|clinicalStudies=There is limited information regarding <i>Clinical Studies</i> of {{PAGENAME}} in the drug label.


== References ==
<!--How Supplied-->
|howSupplied=
|storage=* store below 77 oF (25 oC)
* protect contents from humidity
* keep tightly closed
|packLabel=====PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL====
NDC 0135-0199-02


* Cathleen Baker (1982). [http://aic.stanford.edu/sg/bpg/annual/v01/bp01-04.html Methylcellulose & Sodium Carboxymethylcellulose: Uses in Paper Conservation]. The Book and Paper Group Annual, Vol 1, 1982
CITRUCEL®


[[Category:Cellulose]]
METHYLCELLULOSE FIBER THERAPY FOR REGULARITY
[[Category:Laxatives]]
[[Category:Edible thickening agents]]
[[Category:Personal lubricants]]


[[de:Methylcellulose]]
Gentle and clinically proven effective
[[fr:Méthylcellulose]]
Gives you additional fiber to help balance your diet
[[pl:Metyloceluloza]]
The ONLY fiber for regularity that won’t cause excess gas
[[uk:Метилцелюлоза]]
100 Fiber caplets
{{WikiDoc Sources}}
 
BETTER VALUE Per Dose than leading competition
 
*Based on laboratory testing. Individual results may vary.
 
CITRUCEL® is a registered trademark of the Sanofi group of companies and licensed by the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies.
 
©2012 GlaxoSmithKline
 
101878XA
 
: [[File:Methycellulose PDP.png|thumb|none|600px|This image is provided by the National Library of Medicine.]]
 
====Ingredients and Appearance====
 
: [[File:Methycellulose Ing and App.png|thumb|none|600px|This image is provided by the National Library of Medicine.]]
 
<!--Patient Counseling Information-->
|fdaPatientInfo=* call toll-free 1-800-897-6081 (English/Spanish) weekdays
|alcohol=* Alcohol-{{PAGENAME}} interaction has not been established. Talk to your doctor about the effects of taking alcohol with this medication.
 
<!--Brand Names-->
|brandNames=* CITRUCEL®<ref>{{Cite web | title = Methylcellulose | url =http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=d27f6742-2dcc-451e-b803-6ffe183038ec }}</ref>
 
<!--Look-Alike Drug Names-->
|drugShortage=
}}
<!--Pill Image-->
 
 
 
<!--Label Display Image-->
 
 
 
 
 
<!--Category-->
 
[[Category:Drug]]

Latest revision as of 15:36, 5 March 2015

Methylcellulose
Adult Indications & Dosage
Pediatric Indications & Dosage
Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Adverse Reactions
Drug Interactions
Use in Specific Populations
Administration & Monitoring
Overdosage
Pharmacology
Clinical Studies
How Supplied
Images
Patient Counseling Information
Precautions with Alcohol
Brand Names
Look-Alike Names

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Rabin Bista, M.B.B.S. [2]

Disclaimer

WikiDoc MAKES NO GUARANTEE OF VALIDITY. WikiDoc is not a professional health care provider, nor is it a suitable replacement for a licensed healthcare provider. WikiDoc is intended to be an educational tool, not a tool for any form of healthcare delivery. The educational content on WikiDoc drug pages is based upon the FDA package insert, National Library of Medicine content and practice guidelines / consensus statements. WikiDoc does not promote the administration of any medication or device that is not consistent with its labeling. Please read our full disclaimer here.
NOTE: Most over the counter (OTC) are not reviewed and approved by the FDA. However, they may be marketed if they comply with applicable regulations and policies. FDA has not evaluated whether this product complies.

Overview

Methylcellulose is a OTC laxative that is FDA approved for the treatment of constipation. Common adverse reactions include flatulence and distension.

Adult Indications and Dosage

FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Adult)

Indications

  • helps restore and maintain regularity
  • relieves constipation (irregularity)
  • for constipation associated with other bowel disorders like IBS when recommended by a doctor
  • generally produces a bowel movement in 12- 72 hours

Dosage

  • Take this product (child or adult dose) with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of water or other fluid. Taking this product without enough liquid may case choking. See choking warning.

Off-Label Use and Dosage (Adult)

Guideline-Supported Use

There is limited information regarding Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use of Methylcellulose in adult patients.

Non–Guideline-Supported Use

There is limited information regarding Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use of Methylcellulose in adult patients.

Pediatric Indications and Dosage

FDA-Labeled Indications and Dosage (Pediatric)

Dosage

  • Take this product (child or adult dose) with at least 8 ounces (a full glass) of water or other fluid. Taking this product without enough liquid may case choking. See choking warning.

Off-Label Use and Dosage (Pediatric)

Guideline-Supported Use

There is limited information regarding Off-Label Guideline-Supported Use of Methylcellulose in pediatric patients.

Non–Guideline-Supported Use

There is limited information regarding Off-Label Non–Guideline-Supported Use of Methylcellulose in pediatric patients.

Contraindications

There is limited information regarding Methylcellulose Contraindications in the drug label.

Warnings

  • Choking: taking this product without adequate fluid may cause it to swell and block your throat or esophagus and may cause choking. Do not take this product if you have difficulty in swallowing. If you experience chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty in swallowing or breathing after taking this product, seek immediate medical attention.
  • Ask a doctor before use if you have
  • a sudden change in bowel habits that persists for two weeks
  • abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting
  • Stop use and ask a doctor if
  • constipation lasts more than 7 days
  • you have rectal bleeding
  • These could be signs of a serious condition.
  • Keep out of reach of children.
  • In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Adverse Reactions

Clinical Trials Experience

Postmarketing Experience

There is limited information regarding Postmarketing Experience of Methylcellulose in the drug label.

Drug Interactions

There is limited information regarding Methylcellulose Drug Interactions in the drug label.

Use in Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category (FDA): There is no FDA guidance on usage of Methylcellulose in women who are pregnant.
Pregnancy Category (AUS):

  • Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) Pregnancy Category

There is no Australian Drug Evaluation Committee (ADEC) guidance on usage of Methylcellulose in women who are pregnant.

Labor and Delivery

There is no FDA guidance on use of Methylcellulose during labor and delivery.

Nursing Mothers

There is no FDA guidance on the use of Methylcellulose with respect to nursing mothers.

Pediatric Use

There is no FDA guidance on the use of Methylcellulose with respect to pediatric patients.

Geriatic Use

There is no FDA guidance on the use of Methylcellulose with respect to geriatric patients.

Gender

There is no FDA guidance on the use of Methylcellulose with respect to specific gender populations.

Race

There is no FDA guidance on the use of Methylcellulose with respect to specific racial populations.

Renal Impairment

There is no FDA guidance on the use of Methylcellulose in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment

There is no FDA guidance on the use of Methylcellulose in patients with hepatic impairment.

Females of Reproductive Potential and Males

There is no FDA guidance on the use of Methylcellulose in women of reproductive potentials and males.

Immunocompromised Patients

There is no FDA guidance one the use of Methylcellulose in patients who are immunocompromised.

Administration and Monitoring

Administration

  • Oral

Monitoring

There is limited information regarding Monitoring of Methylcellulose in the drug label.

IV Compatibility

There is limited information regarding IV Compatibility of Methylcellulose in the drug label.

Overdosage

There is limited information regarding Overdose of Methylcellulose in the drug label.

Pharmacology

This image is provided by the Wikipedia.

Mechanism of Action

  • Bulk-forming fiber laxative

Structure

ACTIVE INGREDIENT (IN EACH CAPLET)
  • Methylcellulose (a non-allergenic fiber) 500mg
INACTIVE INGREDIENTS
  • crospovidone, dibasic calcium phosphate, FD&C yellow no. 6 aluminum lake, magnesium stearate, maltodextrin, povidone, sodium lauryl sulfate
  • each caplet contains: calcium 10mg

Pharmacodynamics

There is limited information regarding Pharmacodynamics of Methylcellulose in the drug label.

Pharmacokinetics

There is limited information regarding Pharmacokinetics of Methylcellulose in the drug label.

Nonclinical Toxicology

There is limited information regarding Nonclinical Toxicology of Methylcellulose in the drug label.

Clinical Studies

There is limited information regarding Clinical Studies of Methylcellulose in the drug label.

How Supplied

There is limited information regarding Methylcellulose How Supplied in the drug label.

Storage

  • store below 77 oF (25 oC)
  • protect contents from humidity
  • keep tightly closed

Images

Drug Images

{{#ask: Page Name::Methylcellulose |?Pill Name |?Drug Name |?Pill Ingred |?Pill Imprint |?Pill Dosage |?Pill Color |?Pill Shape |?Pill Size (mm) |?Pill Scoring |?NDC |?Drug Author |format=template |template=DrugPageImages |mainlabel=- |sort=Pill Name }}

Package and Label Display Panel

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

NDC 0135-0199-02

CITRUCEL®

METHYLCELLULOSE FIBER THERAPY FOR REGULARITY

Gentle and clinically proven effective Gives you additional fiber to help balance your diet The ONLY fiber for regularity that won’t cause excess gas 100 Fiber caplets

BETTER VALUE Per Dose than leading competition

  • Based on laboratory testing. Individual results may vary.

CITRUCEL® is a registered trademark of the Sanofi group of companies and licensed by the GlaxoSmithKline group of companies.

©2012 GlaxoSmithKline

101878XA

This image is provided by the National Library of Medicine.

Ingredients and Appearance

This image is provided by the National Library of Medicine.

{{#ask: Label Page::Methylcellulose |?Label Name |format=template |template=DrugLabelImages |mainlabel=- |sort=Label Page }}

Patient Counseling Information

  • call toll-free 1-800-897-6081 (English/Spanish) weekdays

Precautions with Alcohol

  • Alcohol-Methylcellulose interaction has not been established. Talk to your doctor about the effects of taking alcohol with this medication.

Brand Names

Look-Alike Drug Names

There is limited information regarding Methylcellulose Look-Alike Drug Names in the drug label.

Drug Shortage Status

Price

References

The contents of this FDA label are provided by the National Library of Medicine.

  1. "Methylcellulose".