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Methylcellulose is widely used in pharmaceuticals primarily as a thickening agent. Its unique properties allow it to increase the viscosity of solutions and suspensions, which is particularly beneficial in formulations that require stability and uniformity. By thickening these solutions, methylcellulose helps to prevent the separation of ingredients, ensuring that the active compounds remain evenly distributed throughout the product. This is crucial in suspensions where solid particles must remain suspended in a liquid medium, providing consistent dosage and enhancing product performance.

In contrast, various other applications mentioned in the options focus on different functionalities that methylcellulose does not serve. While some excipients may act as surfactants, preservatives, or disintegrating agents, methylcellulose does not possess those specific properties that cater to such roles in pharmaceutical formulations. Thus, its primary and most common application remains as a thickening agent in different types of pharmaceutical preparations.