Bioavailability & formulation

Poor solubility is not one problem, so it does not have one solution.

The best technology depends on what limits exposure: dissolution rate, apparent solubility, wetting, crystallinity, permeability, dose, stability or the ability to maintain supersaturation.

Characterize before choosing the platform

A useful strategy starts with the API: pKa, melting point, logP/logD, crystal form, dose, permeability, particle behavior and chemical stability. These data help distinguish a particle-size problem from a solid-state or formulation problem.

Particle engineering

Micronization and nanomilling can increase surface area and dissolution rate. The challenge is maintaining physical stability, controlling agglomeration and converting the dispersion into a practical dosage form.

Amorphous approaches

Amorphous solid dispersions can improve apparent solubility and dissolution by reducing crystal lattice constraints. Polymer selection, drug load, miscibility, processing conditions and physical stability determine whether the gain survives storage and downstream processing.

Process and product must be designed together

Spray granulation, hot-melt extrusion, fluid-bed processing and other routes each impose different thermal, solvent, scale-up and equipment requirements. Technology selection should therefore consider the commercial manufacturing route from the beginning.

Professional perspective by Philippe Tschopp. This content is not regulatory or medical advice.