Application of surfactants in solid dispersion technology for improving solubility of poorly water soluble drugs

Discovery of several poorly water soluble drugs in the past decade has led to the constant need of developing a novel dosage form which increases the solubility of these drug. They increase solubility of drug in gastrointestinal tract by increasing the dissolution rate which leads to enhanced absorption of drug and thereby increasing bioavailability. Solid dispersion is one of the most promising techniques to overcome the challenges faced by low aqueous solubility. However, there are several limitations associated with the development of solid dispersion, like miscibility of polymer and drug, the stability of the dispersion, etc. The use of surfactant(s) in the solid dispersion may overcome these limitations. Addition of surfactant(s) to solid dispersion not only increases drug-polymer miscibility but also reduces recrystallization. It also improves the wettability of solid dispersion, which leads to increase in dissolution and improved physical stability. However, caution must be employed in selecting the surfactant. The surfactant can interact with polymer and thereby increase the recrystallization of drugs. The variety of surfactant, aspects to consider and related parameters have been discussed in this review article.

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