How does methylcellulose work as a laxative. What are the common side effects of methylcellulose. How should methylcellulose be taken for optimal results. When should you avoid using methylcellulose. What precautions should be taken when using methylcellulose during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Understanding Methylcellulose: A Bulk-Forming Laxative

Methylcellulose, commonly known by the brand name Citrucel, is a bulk-forming laxative used to treat constipation and maintain regular bowel movements. This medication works by increasing the amount of water in stools, making them softer and easier to pass. As a result, it helps alleviate constipation and promotes regularity.

Is methylcellulose suitable for everyone? While generally safe, certain individuals should exercise caution. Those with irritable bowel syndrome, difficulty swallowing, or sudden changes in bowel habits lasting more than two weeks should consult a healthcare professional before use. Additionally, individuals who have been constipated for over a week should seek medical advice prior to taking methylcellulose.

How Methylcellulose Works

Methylcellulose functions by absorbing water in the intestines, which leads to increased stool bulk. This added bulk stimulates intestinal contractions, promoting more frequent bowel movements. The increased water content also softens the stool, making it easier to pass and reducing strain during defecation.

Common Uses of Methylcellulose

The primary use of methylcellulose is to treat constipation and maintain regular bowel movements. However, it may have other applications not listed in standard medication guides. Some potential uses include:

• Relief of occasional constipation
• Management of chronic constipation
• Promoting regularity in bowel movements
• Softening stools for easier passage

Can methylcellulose be used for purposes other than constipation relief? While its primary use is as a laxative, some healthcare providers may recommend methylcellulose for other gastrointestinal issues. However, it’s crucial to consult with a medical professional before using methylcellulose for any purpose other than its intended use as a laxative.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Like any medication, methylcellulose can cause side effects in some individuals. While most side effects are mild, it’s important to be aware of potential adverse reactions. Common side effects may include:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Mild stomach discomfort

Are there any serious side effects associated with methylcellulose use? While rare, some individuals may experience more severe reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe stomach cramps
• Rectal bleeding
• Allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
• No bowel movement within 3 days of using methylcellulose

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a complete list of potential side effects and medical advice.

Proper Dosage and Administration

Correct usage of methylcellulose is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. The dosage may vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and the form of methylcellulose being used (powder, capsules, or wafers).

General Guidelines for Methylcellulose Use

1. Follow the instructions on the product label or as directed by your healthcare provider.
2. Take methylcellulose with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) to prevent choking.
3. If using powder form, mix thoroughly with water or another liquid before consuming.
4. For wafers, chew thoroughly before swallowing.
5. Avoid taking methylcellulose immediately before bedtime.

How often should methylcellulose be taken? The frequency of methylcellulose use depends on individual needs and should be determined in consultation with a healthcare provider. Typically, it may be taken one to three times daily, but this can vary based on the severity of constipation and individual response to the medication.

Interactions and Contraindications

While methylcellulose is generally safe, it can interact with other medications or health conditions. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and health conditions before starting methylcellulose.

Potential Interactions

• Other medications: Methylcellulose may affect the absorption of other drugs. Take other medications at least 2 hours before or after using methylcellulose.
• Phenylketonuria (PKU): Some methylcellulose products may contain phenylalanine. Individuals with PKU should consult their doctor before use.

Are there any specific conditions that contraindicate the use of methylcellulose? Methylcellulose should not be used by individuals with:

• Known allergies to methylcellulose or its components
• Intestinal blockage
• Difficulty swallowing

Always consult with a healthcare provider before using methylcellulose, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Methylcellulose Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The safety of methylcellulose during pregnancy and breastfeeding is an important consideration for many individuals. While generally considered safe, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before using methylcellulose during these periods.

Pregnancy

Limited studies have been conducted on the effects of methylcellulose during pregnancy. While no significant risks have been identified, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Pregnant individuals should discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare provider before using methylcellulose.

Breastfeeding

Methylcellulose is not known to pass into breast milk in significant amounts. However, as with any medication, breastfeeding mothers should consult their healthcare provider before use to ensure the safety of their infant.

Can alternative methods be used to manage constipation during pregnancy and breastfeeding? Yes, there are several safe alternatives to consider:

• Increasing dietary fiber intake
• Staying well-hydrated
• Regular physical activity (as approved by a healthcare provider)
• Other pregnancy-safe laxatives recommended by a healthcare provider

Long-Term Use and Safety Considerations

While methylcellulose is generally safe for short-term use, long-term usage should be approached with caution and under medical supervision. Prolonged use of any laxative, including methylcellulose, may lead to dependence or mask underlying health issues.

Potential Risks of Long-Term Use

• Electrolyte imbalances
• Dehydration
• Decreased bowel function
• Masking of serious gastrointestinal conditions

How can one safely manage chronic constipation without relying solely on laxatives? A comprehensive approach to managing chronic constipation may include:

• Dietary modifications (increased fiber intake, adequate hydration)
• Regular exercise
• Lifestyle changes (establishing a regular bathroom routine)
• Addressing underlying medical conditions
• Consultation with a gastroenterologist for personalized treatment plans

It’s crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a safe and effective long-term strategy for managing constipation, particularly if methylcellulose use extends beyond occasional relief.

Comparing Methylcellulose to Other Laxatives

Methylcellulose is one of several types of laxatives available for constipation relief. Understanding how it compares to other options can help individuals and healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment.

Types of Laxatives

1. Bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., methylcellulose, psyllium)
2. Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol, magnesium citrate)
3. Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl, senna)
4. Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
5. Lubricant laxatives (e.g., mineral oil)

How does methylcellulose compare to other bulk-forming laxatives like psyllium? Both methylcellulose and psyllium are effective bulk-forming laxatives, but they have some differences:

• Methylcellulose is less likely to cause gas and bloating compared to psyllium.
• Psyllium may have additional benefits for cholesterol management.
• Methylcellulose is generally considered non-fermentable, which may be beneficial for individuals with certain digestive sensitivities.

The choice between methylcellulose and other laxatives should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into account individual health needs, preferences, and any underlying medical conditions.

Lifestyle Modifications to Complement Methylcellulose Use

While methylcellulose can be an effective tool for managing constipation, combining its use with lifestyle modifications can enhance its effectiveness and promote overall digestive health.

Dietary Changes

• Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Limit consumption of processed foods and those high in fat and sugar

Physical Activity

Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week, as approved by your healthcare provider.

Establishing a Routine

Creating a regular bathroom schedule can help train your body and promote more consistent bowel movements. Try to set aside time each day, preferably after meals, to use the bathroom without rushing.

Can lifestyle changes alone be sufficient to manage constipation? In some cases, lifestyle modifications may be enough to alleviate mild constipation. However, for more severe or chronic cases, a combination of lifestyle changes and appropriate medication use, such as methylcellulose, may be necessary. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual needs.

Methylcellulose in Special Populations

While methylcellulose is generally safe for most adults, special considerations may apply to certain populations. Understanding these nuances can help ensure safe and effective use across different age groups and health conditions.

Pediatric Use

Methylcellulose use in children requires careful consideration and should only be done under medical supervision. The safety and efficacy of methylcellulose have not been extensively studied in young children.

• Children under 6 years: Use only under direct medical advice
• Children 6-12 years: Dosage should be determined by a healthcare provider
• Adolescents: May use adult dosages, but should consult a healthcare provider first

Geriatric Use

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of methylcellulose and may require dosage adjustments. Additionally, they may be at higher risk for certain side effects or interactions due to age-related changes in physiology and potential polypharmacy.

Use in Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions

Certain chronic health conditions may affect the use of methylcellulose or require special precautions:

• Diabetes: Methylcellulose may affect blood sugar levels
• Kidney disease: May require dosage adjustments
• Gastrointestinal disorders: Use with caution in conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis

How should healthcare providers approach methylcellulose use in these special populations? A personalized approach is crucial. Healthcare providers should:

• Conduct a thorough medical history and assessment
• Consider potential drug interactions and contraindications
• Start with lower doses and titrate as needed
• Monitor closely for efficacy and side effects
• Educate patients and caregivers on proper use and potential risks

By tailoring the use of methylcellulose to individual needs and circumstances, healthcare providers can help ensure safe and effective constipation management across diverse patient populations.

Methylcellulose (Citrucel) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings

Reviewed: June 23, 2020

Methylcellulose is a bulk-forming laxative that increases the amount of water in your stools to help make them softer and easier to pass.

Methylcellulose is used to treat constipation and to help maintain regular bowel movements.

Methylcellulose may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

uses

What is Methylcellulose (Citrucel) used for?

• Constipation

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Methylcellulose (Citrucel)?

You should not take methylcellulose if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• irritable bowel syndrome;
• trouble swallowing;
• stomach pain with nausea or vomiting;
• a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts 2 weeks or longer; or
• if you have been constipated for more than 1 week.

This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Talk to your doctor before using methylcellulose if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Ask your doctor before taking methylcellulose if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 6 years old without medical advice.

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Side Effects

What are the side effects of Methylcellulose (Citrucel)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe stomach cramps, rectal bleeding; or
• no bowel movement within 3 days after using methylcellulose.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Methylcellulose (Citrucel) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Ask your doctor before taking methylcellulose if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Methylcellulose (Citrucel)?

Follow your doctor’s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Methylcellulose (Citrucel)?

Use Methylcellulose (Citrucel) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Methylcellulose (Citrucel)?

Since methylcellulose is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Methylcellulose (Citrucel)?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Methylcellulose (Citrucel),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Methylcellulose (Citrucel), call 911

911

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Color: orange

Shape: capsule

Imprint: G188

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Medical Disclaimer

Drugs A-Z provides drug information from Everyday Health and our partners, as well as ratings from our members, all in one place. Cerner Multum™ provides the data within some of the Overview, Uses, Warnings, Side Effects, Pregnancy, Interactions, Dosage, Overdose, and Images sections. The information within all other sections is proprietary to Everyday Health.  

Methylcellulose (Laxative) Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is used to treat constipation. It increases the bulk in your stool, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines. It also works by increasing the amount of water in the stool, making the stool softer and easier to pass.Psyllium, one type of bulk-forming laxative, has also been used along with a proper diet to treat high cholesterol.

How to use Methylcellulose (Laxative) Oral Powder

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. To prevent choking from this medication, take it with a full glass of water or other liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters). If you are taking the wafers, chew them thoroughly before swallowing.

For powder forms of this medication, measure each dose according to the directions on the product label. Mix in a full glass of water or other liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters), stir completely, and drink right away. You may add more liquid to the mixture if it becomes too thick. When preparing the medication, be careful not to breathe in the powder since it may rarely cause an allergic reaction.

Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed.

This product may decrease the absorption of other medications you may be taking. Take this product at least 2 hours from your other medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

It may take 1 to 3 days before this medication starts working. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse, or if bleeding from the rectum occurs. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Gas or stomach cramping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this product, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This product must be taken with at least a full glass of water or other liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters) so that it will not swell in the throat, causing choking. Get medical help right away if after taking this product you have symptoms of choking such as: chest pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing/breathing.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking this bulk-forming laxative, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: stomach/intestinal blockage, difficulty swallowing, appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis (such as nausea/vomiting, sudden or unexplained stomach/abdominal pain), a sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than 2 weeks, bleeding from the rectum.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Some products may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

See also How To Use section.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Does Methylcellulose (Laxative) Oral Powder interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Lifestyle changes that may prevent or relieve constipation include exercising, drinking enough water, and eating a proper diet with fiber-rich foods such as bran, fresh fruits/vegetables. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Leocaine solution 0.3% with methylcellulose

All forms of release, dosages, registration certificates, drug manufacturers, drug characteristics

Description of the drug Leocaine solution 0. 3% with methylcellulose (sterile solution, 0.3%) based on the official instructions, approved by the manufacturer in 1996

Date of approval: 31.07.1996

Contents

• Active substance
• ATX
• Pharmacological group
• Nosological classification (ICD-10)
• Composition and form of release
• pharmachologic effect
• Characteristic
• Indications
• Contraindications
• Dosage and administration
• Side effects
• Storage conditions
• Best before date

Active ingredient

Dimethylaminoethyl ether n-butylaminobenzoic acid hydrochloride

ATX

N01BA03 Tetracaine

Pharmacological group

Local anesthetics

Nosological classification (ICD-10)

ICD-10 code list

Composition and formulation

Solution of leocaine (beta-dimethylaminoethyl ester of parabutylaminobenzoic acid hydrochloride (beta form) 0. 3% with methylcellulose contains leocaine, sodium chloride, methylcellulose, purified water, in vials of 5 ml or 10 m L.

Pharmacological action

Pharmacological action –

local anesthetic .

Characteristics

Clear or slightly opalescent, colorless or slightly colored liquid.

Indications

Terminal anesthesia (in adults and children over 10 years old) for various endoscopic examinations, for pain relief during short-term operations and manipulations in dental, otorhinolaryngological, urological, gynecological practice. Conservative treatment of pain syndrome in superficial pathological processes.

Contraindications

Individual intolerance.

Dosage and Administration

Information for healthcare professionals only.
Are you a healthcare professional?

Local. In endoscopic practice, it is applied to the mucous membranes immediately before the examination at a time from 2 to 20 ml. In dentistry, it is used as an application on the surface to be surgically intervened, or on the affected area of ​​the oral mucosa for 1–1.5 minutes. To stop the pain syndrome in the conservative treatment of dental diseases, an application is made from 2-4 drops to 1-2 ml 3-4 times a day. In otorhinolaryngology – instillations or applications (1-1.5 minutes) immediately before surgery or manipulation in an amount of 2-4 drops to 1-2 ml. In gynecology – in the form of applications on the area of ​​the mucous membrane subject to surgical intervention, from 2-4 drops to 1-2 ml at a time. If necessary, during the surgical intervention, the applications are repeated depending on the duration of the operation and the individual tolerance of the drug to patients. The maximum dose of the drug in all cases should not exceed 30 ml per day.

Side effects

Mild discomfort at the site of application or instillation, allergic reactions.

Storage conditions

In a cool place.

Keep out of reach of children.

Expiration date

2 years.

Do not use after the expiry date which is stated on the packaging.

Updated: 04/23/2019

Information for healthcare professionals only.
Are you a healthcare professional?

Methylcellulose or E461 – the use of a food additive in construction and food industry

Published: 12/10/2016 properties of food additive E 461. Why a builder? It is in this area that the product of chemical synthesis has gained popularity.

You can also find it in sausage and ketchup, fluffy bun and milk dessert. Doctors question the benefits of supplements.

Contents: Show

• Product name
• Substance type
• Properties
• Packaging
• Application
• Benefits and harms
• Main manufacturers 90 021

Product name

Methylcellulose is the official name of the food additive. The international synonym is Methyl cellulose.

Synonyms:

• Methyl cellulose, international;
• E 461 (E-461), European code;
• cellulose methyl ether;
• methylcellulose, water-soluble;
• Cellulose-Methylether, German;
• methylcellulose, French.

Substance type

GOST 33310-2015 includes additive E 461 in the category of food thickeners.

Chemically, the substance is a synthetic polymer, an ether of natural cellulose and methanol.

The industrial method of obtaining the additive is based on high-pressure methylation of α-cellulose swollen in alkali with an ether solution of diazomethane or chloromethane, followed by purification and drying.

Properties

9 0185

9019 0

Index	Standard values ​​
Color	white, yellowish or grayish tint possible
Composition	cellulose polymer, empirical formula [C 6 H 7 O 2 (OH)x(OCH 3 )y]n, number of monomers ranges from 100 to 2000
Appearance	fine granules or fibrous powder
Odor	no
Solubility	good in cold water (up to 50ºC), acids, glycerol, esters; insoluble in mineral oils
Base content	25 to 33% methoxy groups and 5% hydroxyethyl groups
Taste	neutral
Density	1. 290-1.310 g/cm³
Other	Forms a reversible gel in hot water. At a temperature of 220-270 ° C, it melts with decomposition; the aqueous solution is stable at pH values ​​from 2 to 12; high light fastness; resistant to chemicals and temperature extremes

Packaging

Manufacturers package food additive E 461 in unstabilized polyethylene bags. As outer packaging use:

• winding drums;
• Multilayer paper bags;
• polypropylene yarn bags.

Application

Food additive E 461 has interesting properties that allow it to be used in various areas of human activity:

• completely dissolves in cold water to form a homogeneous viscous mass, effectively stabilizing any mixture. Viscosity depends on the concentration of the substance in the product;
• forms a gel at temperatures above 55º C, which breaks down with decreasing temperature. The property has found wide application in the production of durable and environmentally friendly wallpaper adhesives;
• aqueous solutions of methylcellulose are pseudoplastic. This allows them to be used in the manufacture of ketchups, sauces, as well as in the paint and varnish industry;
• has high adhesive properties: the additive is used in the production of building and finishing materials, added to minced meat to improve the binding of products.

The food industry uses the additive E 461 in small quantities: methylcellulose adversely affects the digestive tract.

The thickener is not included in the number of prohibited, in quantities from 0.1 to 10 g / kg it can be found in the composition of the following products: As a result, the yield of the finished product is significantly increased;

meat and sausage products: stabilizes and clarifies water-fat emulsions, protects the product from the formation of fatty smudges, increases product yield due to moisture binding.

The Codex Alimentarius permits the use of E 461 as a thickener and gelling agent in fish products, canned oranges and tangerines, reduced calorie spreads.

The additive is included in the list of approved products in Russia, the countries of the EAEU and the European Union, the USA, Great Britain, Australia, and China. The allowable rate has not been established.

Methylcellulose is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry.

Thickener E 461 is used as a base in degreased protective oil-in-water emulsions for the treatment of burns and wounds.

Cellulose methyl ether is an important component of eye drops (including for the treatment of glaucoma).

As an aid, additive E 461:

• increases the residence time of the drug in the diseased organ;
• reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions, burning and other side effects;
• promotes rapid penetration of the drug into the cornea.

Another area of ​​application of methylcellulose is the manufacture of drugs that improve intestinal motility. Taking more than 5 g of the substance causes a laxative effect. In Russia, an additive for the treatment of constipation is allowed only in combination with other drugs, but in some foreign countries (USA, UK) it acts as an independent medicine.

Benefit of a laxative to harm caused by side effects is below reasonable.

The cosmetics industry uses cellulose methyl ether as a thickener, emulsifier in low fat skin care creams, toothpastes, masks and hair mousses.

Effective bonding action, ability to form films on the surface, high adhesion made it possible to use methylcellulose in the construction industry . The granulated additive is included in the composition of dry building mixtures. A small amount of the substance (up to 0.7% of the total mass) is sufficient to improve elasticity, regulate viscosity, and obtain pseudoplastic frost-resistant solutions.

Additive E 461 is a component of water-based paints and adhesives. It is especially valuable that materials based on methylcellulose can be applied to any substrate.

Benefits and harms

Methylcellulose is not biologically active. The product is not a source of substances valuable for the body.

Once in the stomach, it is excreted naturally without being subjected to enzymatic metabolism. The substance is hypoallergenic, does not irritate mucous membranes and skin.

E 461 supplement cannot be considered completely safe: methylcellulose can provoke the development of dyskinesia. A complex violation of the intestines is manifested by long-term pain in the abdomen, impaired peristalsis. In a severe case, intestinal obstruction is possible.

Particular care should be taken by people suffering from gastrointestinal diseases: methylcellulose almost always causes an exacerbation of ailments.

Side effects have led to very limited use of E 461 in the food industry.

Beta cyclodextrin is a completely safe substance, it is excreted from the human body unchanged.

How does the food additive E402 affect the human body? Learn about it here.

Did you see the antioxidant E320 in your favorite product? Learn more about this substance from our article.

Main producers

Additive E 461 comes to the Russian market from abroad.

The largest manufacturer is the international concern Bayer , which unites more than 350 global companies (headquartered in Germany).

The demand of domestic producers for methylcellulose is met by German companies:

• IMCD Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG;
• Dow Wolf Cellulosics GmbH;
• Mikro-Technik GmbH & Co. KG;
• OXEA GmbH.

Chinese manufacturers try to compete by offering the chemical at a lower price:

• Shanghai Kaidu Industrial Development Co., Ltd.;
• Beijing Cheng Yi Chemical Co.