CARBOXYMETHYLCELLULOSE CALCIUM

Carboxymethylcellulose calcium occurs as a white to yellowishwhite, hygroscopic, odorless powder.

DS 0.5-0.7

Pharmaceutic aid (tablet disintegrant).

Cellulose, obtained from wood pulp or cotton fibers, is carboxymethylated, followed by conversion to the calcium salt. It is then graded on the basis of its degree of carboxymethylation and pulverized.

The main use of carboxymethylcellulose calcium is in tablet formulations, where it is used as a binder, diluent, and disintegrant. Although carboxymethylcellulose calcium is insoluble in water, it is an effective tablet disintegrant as it swells to several times its original bulk on contact with water. Concentrations up to 15% w/w may be used in tablet formulations; above this concentration, tablet hardness is reduced.
Carboxymethylcellulose calcium is also used in other applications similarly to carboxymethylcellulose sodium; for example, as a suspending or viscosity-increasing agent in oral and topical pharmaceutical formulations. Carboxymethylcellulose calcium is also used in modern wound dressings for its water absorption, retention and hemostatic properties.

Carboxymethylcellulose calcium is used in oral and topical pharmaceutical formulations, similarly to carboxymethylcellulose sodium, and is generally regarded as a nontoxic and nonirritant material. However, as with other cellulose derivatives, oral consumption of large amounts of carboxymethylcellulose calcium may have a laxative effect.

Carboxymethylcellulose calcium is a stable, though hygroscopic material. It should be stored in a well-closed container in a cool, dry place.

Included in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Database (oral, capsules and tablets). Included in nonparenteral medicines licensed in the UK. Included in the Canadian List of Acceptable Non-medicinal Ingredients.