Hypromellose acetate succinate

Hypromellose acetate succinate (CAS 71138-97-1), commonly abbreviated as HPMCAS, is a cellulose-based enteric polymer used in pharmaceutical manufacturing to control drug release and improve oral bioavailability.

It functions as a pH-dependent solubilizer and film-former, enabling formulation strategies that would otherwise be limited by poor drug solubility. HPMCAS is the polymer of choice in amorphous solid dispersion formulations.

In these applications, it stabilizes poorly soluble APIs in a supersaturated state to enhance absorption. In enteric coating applications, it forms a protective film that resists gastric acid while dissolving at targeted intestinal pH levels.

Hot-melt extrusion and spray-drying processes both rely on HPMCAS as a matrix carrier, making it central to modern oral solid dosage development. It is also used in controlled-release capsule and tablet systems.

These systems allow for precise gastrointestinal delivery timing where it is a formulation requirement. HPMCAS is supplied as a white to off-white powder in multiple grades differentiated by substitution level.

The material is available in solubility pH thresholds typically designated as LF, MF, and HF grades. NF grade is the standard specification recognized for pharmaceutical use in these applications.

Bulk quantities are available for commercial manufacturing, with smaller quantities offered for formulation development and clinical trial supply. This ensures consistent quality across all stages of production.