Conformation stability and organization of mefloquine molecules in different environments

The crystal structures of mefloquine base, [C17H16F6N2O], and two salts of mefloquine: hydrochloride [(C17H17F6N2O)+]3[Cl−]3 · 3H2O and hydrochloride tetrachlorocobaltate [(C17H17F6N2O)+]3Cl−[CoCl4]2− · C2H6O · H2O, were determined by X-ray diffraction measurements. A comparison of the crystal structures of mefloquine in three different crystalline environments shows that their conformations are stable regardless of mefloquine being a base or a salt. In addition, the conformation of mefloquine is similar to those of crystalline Cinchona alkaloids. The CF3 substituents in the quinoline moiety affect the packing of molecules.

Graphical abstractA comparison of three crystal structures of mefloquine in three different crystalline environments is reported.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide