Pharmaceutical Cocrystal: An Antique and Multifaceted Approach

Abstract

Background: Pharmaceutical cocrystal is an emerging approach to tailor physicochemical and mechanical properties of drug substances. Cocrystals are composed of API and pharmaceutically acceptable coformer. It is used to address the solubility, dissolution, mechanical properties and stability of drugs.

Methods: This review discusses introduction to cocrystal, preparation, and characterization, what USFDA says on cocrystal and role of Hansen solubility parameter to predict cocrystal. The effect of cocrystal on drug properties, dependence of cocrystal solubility on pH, concept of drug-drug cocrystal, and aerosil 200 as novel cocrystal former and impact of cocrystal on drug pharmacokinetic has also been presented in this review along with highly selected examples of cocrystals. Finally, how cocrystal offers an opportunity for patents is also delineated.

Results: Pharmaceutical cocrystals have ability to tailor physichochemical and mechanical properties of drug substances. It also provides opportunity for patentable invention. Therapeutic efficacy of drugs may be improved via drug-drug cocrystal.

Conclusion: The pharmaceutical cocrystals are not fully explored and have potential for future development. Successful drug delivery can be achieved through cocrystallization. Pharmaceutical industry will be beneficial through successful cocrystallization of drug substances.

Keywords: Aerosil 200; Hansen solubility parameter; USFDA; cocrystal; coformer; drug drug cocrystal.