What are the main uses of methylcellulose. How should methylcellulose be taken for optimal results. What are the potential side effects of methylcellulose. Who should avoid taking methylcellulose.

Understanding Methylcellulose and Its Functions

Methylcellulose, commonly known by the brand name Citrucel, is a bulk-forming laxative that plays a crucial role in managing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. This synthetic compound works by increasing the amount of water in stools, making them softer and easier to pass through the digestive system.

The primary function of methylcellulose is to alleviate constipation, but it may have other uses not explicitly listed in medication guides. Its ability to add bulk to stools and retain water makes it an effective solution for various digestive issues.

How Does Methylcellulose Work?

Methylcellulose functions by absorbing water in the intestines, which leads to the formation of a gel-like substance. This gel increases the bulk of the stool and stimulates the natural movement of the intestines, a process known as peristalsis. The added bulk and softness of the stool facilitate easier passage through the digestive tract, providing relief from constipation.

Proper Usage and Dosage Guidelines for Methylcellulose

To ensure the safe and effective use of methylcellulose, it’s essential to follow proper dosage guidelines. The medication is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and wafers.

• For powder form: Measure each dose according to the product label instructions. Mix thoroughly with a full glass of water or other liquid (8 ounces/240 milliliters) and drink immediately.
• For wafers: Chew thoroughly before swallowing with a full glass of liquid.
• For capsules: Swallow with a full glass of water or other liquid.

Is there a specific time to take methylcellulose? It’s generally recommended to take methylcellulose with meals or immediately after eating. This helps to ensure that the medication is properly mixed with the contents of your stomach and intestines.

Can methylcellulose be taken on an empty stomach? While it’s possible to take methylcellulose on an empty stomach, taking it with food may help reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects.

Dosage Recommendations

The appropriate dosage of methylcellulose can vary depending on individual needs and the specific product being used. Always follow the instructions provided on the product label or as directed by your healthcare provider.

For adults and children 12 years and older, a typical dosage might be:

• Powder form: 1 to 2 tablespoons mixed in 8 ounces of liquid, taken 1 to 3 times daily
• Capsules: 2 to 6 capsules taken up to 4 times daily
• Wafers: 2 to 4 wafers taken up to 4 times daily

Remember to always consume methylcellulose with plenty of liquid to prevent choking and ensure proper absorption.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions of Methylcellulose

While methylcellulose is generally considered safe when used as directed, it can cause some side effects. Most of these side effects are mild and tend to resolve on their own as your body adjusts to the medication.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects of methylcellulose include:

• Gas or bloating
• Mild stomach discomfort
• Nausea
• Diarrhea

These effects are usually temporary and often subside as your body adapts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects

While rare, some individuals may experience more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include:

• 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

If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical help immediately.

Contraindications and Special Precautions

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid using methylcellulose altogether. These include:

• People with known allergies to methylcellulose
• Individuals with irritable bowel syndrome
• Those with difficulty swallowing
• People experiencing sudden changes in bowel habits lasting 2 weeks or longer
• Individuals who have been constipated for more than 1 week
• Those with stomach pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting

Do pregnant or breastfeeding women need to take special precautions with methylcellulose? It’s crucial for pregnant or breastfeeding women to consult their healthcare provider before using methylcellulose. While no specific risks have been identified, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Phenylketonuria (PKU) Considerations

Some methylcellulose products may contain phenylalanine. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder that requires a strict diet limiting phenylalanine intake, it’s essential to consult your doctor before using methylcellulose.

Interactions of Methylcellulose with Other Medications and Substances

While methylcellulose is generally considered safe, it can interact with certain medications and substances. Understanding these interactions is crucial for ensuring the safe and effective use of the medication.

Drug Interactions

Methylcellulose may interact with various medications, potentially affecting their absorption or effectiveness. Some notable interactions include:

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• Diabetes medications
• Thyroid hormones
• Certain heart medications

To minimize the risk of interactions, it’s recommended to take methylcellulose at least 2 hours before or after other medications.

Food and Beverage Interactions

While there are no specific food or beverage interactions with methylcellulose, it’s important to maintain adequate fluid intake when using this medication. Drinking plenty of water or other liquids helps prevent choking and ensures the proper functioning of the laxative.

Can alcohol be consumed while taking methylcellulose? While there’s no direct interaction between alcohol and methylcellulose, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which may counteract the effects of the laxative. It’s best to limit alcohol intake and focus on staying well-hydrated when using methylcellulose.

Long-term Use and Safety Considerations of Methylcellulose

Methylcellulose is generally considered safe for long-term use when taken as directed. However, it’s important to understand the potential implications of prolonged use and to use the medication judiciously.

Long-term Safety

Unlike stimulant laxatives, which can lead to dependency and reduced bowel function over time, bulk-forming laxatives like methylcellulose are considered safe for extended use. They work by adding bulk to the stool and promoting natural bowel movements, rather than artificially stimulating the intestines.

However, it’s important to note that relying solely on laxatives for extended periods without addressing underlying causes of constipation may not be ideal. A balanced diet, adequate hydration, and regular exercise should be part of a comprehensive approach to managing constipation.

Monitoring Long-term Use

If you find yourself needing to use methylcellulose regularly for an extended period, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if there are underlying issues causing chronic constipation and suggest appropriate treatment strategies.

Are there any risks associated with long-term use of methylcellulose? While methylcellulose is generally safe, prolonged use may lead to:

• Dependence on the laxative for regular bowel movements
• Masking of underlying digestive issues
• Potential nutrient malabsorption if used excessively

Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor for any potential issues and ensure that the medication continues to be appropriate for your needs.

Alternative Treatments and Lifestyle Changes for Constipation Management

While methylcellulose can be an effective treatment for constipation, it’s important to consider alternative approaches and lifestyle modifications that can help manage bowel regularity naturally.

Dietary Changes

Incorporating certain dietary changes can significantly improve bowel function:

• Increase fiber intake: Consume more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day
• Limit processed foods: Reduce intake of low-fiber, high-fat foods
• Consider probiotic-rich foods: Yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables can promote gut health

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle changes can also help manage constipation:

• Regular exercise: Physical activity can stimulate bowel movements
• Establish a routine: Try to have bowel movements at the same time each day
• Don’t ignore the urge: Respond promptly when you feel the need to have a bowel movement
• Stress management: Practice relaxation techniques as stress can affect digestion

What natural remedies can be used alongside or instead of methylcellulose? Some natural alternatives include:

• Psyllium husk
• Flaxseed
• Prune juice
• Magnesium supplements (under medical supervision)

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you have ongoing digestive issues.

Understanding When to Seek Medical Attention for Constipation

While occasional constipation is common and often resolves on its own or with over-the-counter remedies like methylcellulose, there are situations where medical attention is necessary.

Warning Signs

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Blood in your stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent constipation despite using laxatives
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Constipation accompanied by fever

These symptoms could indicate more serious underlying conditions that require professional medical evaluation.

Chronic Constipation

If you consistently experience fewer than three bowel movements per week, or if you regularly need to strain or have difficulty passing stools, you may be dealing with chronic constipation. This condition warrants a thorough medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan.

Can chronic use of laxatives like methylcellulose mask more serious digestive issues? While methylcellulose is generally safe, relying on it long-term without addressing the root cause of constipation could potentially mask underlying health issues. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help ensure that your digestive health is properly managed.

Remember, while methylcellulose can be an effective tool for managing constipation, it’s important to maintain a holistic approach to digestive health. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, proper hydration, and timely medical attention when necessary. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment recommendations.

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.