In tablet formulation, microcrystalline cellulose acts as what type of component?

Microcrystalline cellulose serves as a dry binder in tablet formulation. It is used to provide cohesion, helping to hold the powdered ingredients together when forming tablets. This property is essential for ensuring that the tablet maintains its integrity during the manufacturing process and also during handling and storage. As a dry binder, microcrystalline cellulose enhances the compressibility of the formulation, which is crucial for producing tablets of consistent size and hardness.

In this context, microcrystalline cellulose also has additional functionality, such as serving as a filler or diluent in lower concentrations, but its primary role in this scenario is as a binding agent. In tablet formulations, the ability to form strong, yet uniform tablets is key for ensuring optimal release and bioavailability of the active pharmaceutical ingredients.