Solubility Enhancement Technology Platform

Micronization

Micronization involves reducing the particle size of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) to the micrometer scale. Smaller particles have a larger surface area relative to their volume, which enhances dissolution rates and solubility.

Spray Drying

Spray drying is a technique where a drug is dispersed in a polymeric matrix and then atomized into a hot gas, resulting in rapid solvent evaporation and the formation of a solid dispersion. This is one of the most common ways to improve the solubility of drugs.

Hot-Melt Extrusion

In this process, the drug is mixed with a polymer and extruded at high temperatures to form a homogeneous solid dispersion. The resultant product has improved solubility due to the amorphous nature of the dispersed drug.

Nanocrystal Technology

Nanocrystals are pure drug particles reduced to the nanometer scale. Nanocrystal formulations enhance solubility by increasing the surface area and saturation solubility, leading to faster dissolution rates.

Cyclodextrin Complexation

Cyclodextrins are cyclic oligosaccharides that can form inclusion complexes with hydrophobic drug molecules. By encapsulating the drug within the cyclodextrin cavity, solubility is significantly improved.

Nanosizing and Advanced Delivery Systems:

• Nanoparticles: Drug particles are processed into nanoparticles using techniques like precipitation or grinding. Nanoparticles offer enhanced dissolution rates and bioavailability due to their small size.
• Liposomal Encapsulation: Liposomes are spherical vesicles with a phospholipid bilayer that can encapsulate drugs, enhancing their solubility and bioavailability, particularly for hydrophobic compounds.
• Microemulsions: Microemulsions are clear, thermodynamically stable mixtures of oil, water, and surfactants that can solubilize lipophilic drugs, improving their absorption and bioavailability.

Nanosuspensions

Nanosuspensions are colloidal dispersions of nanometer-sized drug particles stabilized by surfactants. These suspensions improve drug solubility and enhance dissolution rates.

Use of Solubilizing Agents and Cosolvents

Solubilizing agents like surfactants and cosolvents such as ethanol or propylene glycol can be used to increase the aqueous solubility of poorly soluble drugs. These agents work by altering the solvent properties of the medium or by forming micelles that enhance solubility.