Here is a complete overview of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) Injection 2%, commonly used in ophthalmic surgery:
💉 Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) Injection 2%
✅ DESCRIPTION
HPMC 2% Injection is a sterile, non-pyrogenic, viscoelastic solution used primarily in intraocular surgeries. It maintains anterior chamber depth, protects corneal endothelium, and facilitates manipulation of ocular tissues during procedures such as cataract surgery (phacoemulsification), lens implantation, and corneal transplantation.
🧪 FORMULATION
- Active Ingredient: Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose 2% w/v
- Molecular Weight: Varies by manufacturer (commonly 80,000–150,000 Daltons)
- pH: ~7.2 (physiological)
- Osmolality: ~270–320 mOsm/kg
- Appearance: Clear, colorless to slightly opalescent, viscous solution
- Packaging:
- Pre-filled syringes or glass vials
- Usually in 1 mL to 2 mL sterile units
🌿 NATURE
- Type: Semi-synthetic cellulose derivative
- Class: Viscoelastic ophthalmic surgical aid
- Mechanism of Action:
- Provides mechanical support in the anterior chamber
- Coats intraocular structures (lens, endothelium)
- Minimizes trauma by absorbing mechanical energy
- Maintains space for intraocular lens (IOL) insertion
💊 USES
Primarily indicated during:
- Cataract extraction surgeries
- IOL implantation procedures
- Keratoplasty (corneal transplant)
- Glaucoma filtering surgeries
- Anterior segment surgeries
- Vitreo-retinal procedures (occasionally)
🌟 ADVANTAGES
- Biocompatible and well-tolerated
- Maintains anterior chamber and visibility
- Reduces intraocular trauma
- Protects corneal endothelium
- Easily removable at the end of surgery
- Cost-effective alternative to more expensive viscoelastic agents (e.g., sodium hyaluronate)
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
- Remove thoroughly at end of surgery to prevent postoperative IOP spikes
- Avoid contamination – maintain sterile field
- Do not use if the solution becomes cloudy or contains particulate matter
- Not for intravenous or intramuscular use
- Should be used by trained ophthalmic surgeons only
❌ CONTRAINDICATIONS
- Hypersensitivity to HPMC or any excipients
- Not recommended for patients with known severe allergic reactions to cellulose derivatives
🔍 POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
(Most are related to surgical context)
- Transient increased intraocular pressure (IOP)
- Mild postoperative inflammation or irritation
- Rare: Corneal edema if not properly removed
- No systemic toxicity expected
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at 2°C to 25°C (do not freeze)
- Protect from light and contamination
- Do not reuse once opened
- Check expiry date before use
- Follow cold chain protocols for sensitive brands