Hydroxypropyl cellulose (cellulose, 2-hydroxypropyl ether) is a derivative of cellulose with both water solubility and organic solubility.

Lacrisert® is a formulation of it used for artificial tears. It is used in syndromes of insufficient tear production (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), recurrent corneal erosions, decreased corneal sensitivity, exposure and neuroparalytic keratitis, and as a lubricant for artificial eyes.

As a food additive, hydroxypropyl cellulose is used as a thickener and as an emulsion stabiliser with E number E463.

See also Carboxymethyl cellulose.

Food additives | Cellulose