Pharmaceutical Tablets

microcrystalline cellulose excipient

Microcrystalline Cellulose for Pharmaceutical Tablets

Introduction

Microcrystalline cellulose is one of the most widely used pharmaceutical excipients in tablet formulations. It serves as an effective binder, diluent, and disintegrant in solid dosage forms. Due to its excellent compressibility and stability, MCC is widely used in direct compression tablet manufacturing.


Functions of MCC in Tablets

Microcrystalline cellulose provides several essential functions:

  • Binder for tablet formation
  • Diluent to improve tablet size
  • Disintegrant to support tablet breakdown
  • Improves tablet hardness

Advantages in Tablet Formulation

Using microcrystalline cellulose offers many benefits:

  • Excellent compressibility
  • High binding capacity
  • Fast disintegration
  • Good flowability
  • Chemical stability

Pharmaceutical Applications

MCC is commonly used in:

  • Pharmaceutical tablets
  • Nutraceutical tablets
  • Vitamin supplements
  • Direct compression formulations

Related Products

Recommended pharmaceutical excipients:

References

European Medicines Agency