Controllable precipitation of naproxen micro-particles with different morphologies

A simple precipitation method was proposed to prepare naproxen micro-particles with different controllable morphologies, using capillary video microscopy to study the precipitation process. Different particle shapes were obtained including spherical, platelet-like, stick-like, needle-like, and butterfly-like, all in the micro-size range. It was found that the sizes and morphologies of the formed naproxen particles were sensitive to the nature and concentration of the added surfactant, and depended significantly on processing conditions such as temperature, stirring speed, and initial drug concentration. In addition, precipitation with different surfactant types and concentrations would not affect the crystal microstructure of the formed naproxen particles.

Graphical abstractPrecipitation of naproxen in micro-tube.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Naproxen micro-particles with controllable morphologies were prepared with the help of surfactants. ► Different shapes of naproxen particles were obtained including spherical, platelet-like, stick-like, needle-like, and butterfly-like. ► Size and morphology of precipitated naproxen particles were affected by type and concentration of the surfactant used, as well as precipitation conditions.