As an excipient, cellulose powders are mainly used, often commercially referred to as "microcrystalline cellulose." It is a white powder, insoluble in water, but it disperses in water, forming a stable gel.

Carboxymethylcellulose or CMC is a gel of synthetic origin. It is a highly hygroscopic cellulose ether. It is often used in the form of its sodium salt, sodium carboxymethylcellulose.