Methylcellulose is a compound used as a bulk forming laxative and is not an approved medication. Methyl cellulose polymer consisting of numerous linked glucose molecules used as a stabiliser, thickener and emulsifier for foodstuffs and cosmetics.
- Mechanism
- Curator reviewed
Methylcellulose absorbs water in the gastrointestinal lumen thereby increasing the bulk of the stool. This leads to distension and stimulation of peristalsis. The ability of methylcellulose to absorb water may contribute to its efficacy in the management of diarrhea by once again increasing the bulk and consistency of the stool.
- Primary indication
- Solutions containing methyl cellulose are used as substitute for tears or saliva if the natural production of these fluids is disturbed.Curator reviewed · 3 structured indications
- First approval
- Canada, 2002
- Also known as
- Cellulose methyl · cellulose methyl ether · Cellulose methylate · Methyl cellulose · methylated cellulose
- Code names
- E461
- Brand names
Resolves to
What you can answer from here — as of September 17, 2026
Which other approved drugs treat the same conditions as Methylcellulose, and which companies have late-stage candidates in those indications?
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