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methylcellulose 0.5%

Clinica Oftamologica Zona Sul · FDA-approved active Small molecule ✓ Verified Jun 2026

methylcellulose 0.5% is a Artificial tear / Ocular lubricant Small molecule drug developed by Clinica Oftamologica Zona Sul. It is currently FDA-approved for Dry eye syndrome / keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Ocular surface irritation and discomfort.

Methylcellulose is a viscous lubricant that coats and protects the ocular surface by increasing tear film stability and reducing friction.

Methylcellulose is a bulk-forming laxative used to treat various conditions, including dry eye syndromes and diabetic foot infections, as seen in clinical trials on ClinicalTrials.gov. It is also known by various synonyms, such as Cellulose Methyl Ether and Citrucel, as listed in ChEMBL.

At a glance

Generic namemethylcellulose 0.5%
SponsorClinica Oftamologica Zona Sul
Drug classArtificial tear / Ocular lubricant
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOphthalmology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Methylcellulose is a cellulose derivative that forms a protective, hydrophilic film on the cornea and conjunctiva. It increases tear viscosity and promotes tear film retention, thereby reducing ocular surface irritation and providing lubrication. It is commonly used as an artificial tear substitute for symptomatic relief of dry eye.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

Competitive intelligence

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Frequently asked questions about methylcellulose 0.5%

What is methylcellulose 0.5%?

methylcellulose 0.5% is a Artificial tear / Ocular lubricant drug developed by Clinica Oftamologica Zona Sul, indicated for Dry eye syndrome / keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Ocular surface irritation and discomfort.

How does methylcellulose 0.5% work?

Methylcellulose is a viscous lubricant that coats and protects the ocular surface by increasing tear film stability and reducing friction.

What is methylcellulose 0.5% used for?

methylcellulose 0.5% is indicated for Dry eye syndrome / keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Ocular surface irritation and discomfort.

Who makes methylcellulose 0.5%?

methylcellulose 0.5% is developed and marketed by Clinica Oftamologica Zona Sul (see full Clinica Oftamologica Zona Sul pipeline at /company/clinica-oftamologica-zona-sul).

What drug class is methylcellulose 0.5% in?

methylcellulose 0.5% belongs to the Artificial tear / Ocular lubricant class. See all Artificial tear / Ocular lubricant drugs at /class/artificial-tear-ocular-lubricant.

What development phase is methylcellulose 0.5% in?

methylcellulose 0.5% is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of methylcellulose 0.5%?

Common side effects of methylcellulose 0.5% include Blurred vision, Eye irritation or stinging, Mild conjunctival hyperemia.

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing