Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is a refined derivative of wood pulp, widely utilized in pharmaceuticals and supplements as a filler, binder, and disintegrant. It enhances tablet hardness, stability,...
Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) is a refined derivative of wood pulp, widely utilized in pharmaceuticals and supplements as a filler, binder, and disintegrant. It enhances tablet hardness, stability, and disintegration, improving product quality and bioavailability of active ingredients. While generally safe and well-tolerated, some individuals might experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. MCC also provides a minimal amount of dietary fiber. Its primary role is as an excipient, aiding in formulation rather than providing direct therapeutic effects.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
Dosage varies depending on the specific formulation and purpose; typically used as an excipient, not a primary active ingredient.
Source Type
hybrid
Production Process
Microcrystalline cellulose is produced by treating purified alpha-cellulose obtained as a pulp from fibrous plant materials (e.g., wood) with mineral acids, followed by purification and drying.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Enhances the flow of ingested powders, preventing clumping and promoting consistent absorption within the body. This may lead to improved bioavailability and efficacy of the product.
MCC acts as a filler and binder in tablets and capsules, increasing size for easier handling and preventing crumbling by holding ingredients together.
MCC aids in tablet disintegration within the digestive tract by absorbing water and swelling, leading to quicker release and absorption of active pharmaceutical ingredients. This improves the bioavailability of medications.
Contributes to the structural integrity and hardness of tablets, preventing breakage during handling, storage, and use. This ensures accurate dosing, prevents loss, and promotes patient adherence.
MCC provides a minor source of dietary fiber, promoting gut regularity and supporting digestive health. It primarily acts as a bulking agent, aiding in healthy bowel movements.
Binders are excipients that ensure the structural integrity of tablets and capsules by holding ingredients together. They are essential for maintaining the dosage form's shape and preventing disintegration before administration.
Possible Side Effects
Reduced nutrient absorption is the body's impaired ability to absorb essential nutrients from food or supplements, potentially leading to deficiencies and related health problems. This can be caused by intestinal damage, enzyme issues, medications, or surgery.
Allergic reactions are hypersensitivity responses to allergens, ranging from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Symptoms vary widely and are caused by an immune response.
Gastrointestinal distress involves digestive discomfort like bloating, diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Severity varies based on individual factors and can be triggered by irritation or inflammation of the digestive tract.
Gastrointestinal issues include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and vomiting, potentially stemming from altered gut motility, microbiota changes, or irritation. While often mild, persistent symptoms necessitate evaluation, and contributing factors like pre-existing conditions should be considered.
Scientific Evidence
FDA Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status; Various pharmaceutical excipient handbooks and journal articles on tablet formulation and excipient properties; studies on dietary fiber effects.
User Reviews
Share your experience with this ingredient
Log in to write a reviewNo reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!