Moreover, the FEEDAP Panel also noted that methyl cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose have been used for a long time as vehicles for non-water-soluble substances in several in vivo genotoxicity assays and are recommended for this use by the current OECD test guidelines (e.g. TGs 474, 475, 478 and 483). Based on the available experimental data, neither microcrystalline cellulose nor modified cellulose (including HPMC) raise concern for genotoxicity.
Extraocularly, hpmc is used for the moisturization and protection of the corneal anterior surface by pre-corneal application throughout ophthalmologic interventions, or it is used as an adjuvant for diagnostic and therapeutic contact lenses. Additionally,hpmc is used for lubrication of IOL implantation instruments (injectors).
Another contributing factor to HEC's thickening mechanism is the formation of 'secondary structures
In the food industry, HPMC finds use as a stabilizer, emulsifier, and thickener