Characterization of naproxen solid dispersions: Physicochemical characterization of naproxen solid dispersions prepared by a cogrinding method

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to improve the dissolution rate of naproxen, a poorly water-soluble drug, by the solid dispersion technique. Solid dispersions were prepared by a cogrinding method using hydrophilic polymers including crospovidone, veegum (Bentonitum veegum) and powder of the service tree fruit (Sorbus domestica L.) with different drug to carrier ratios. Formulations were characterized using X-ray powder diffraction (XRP ), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic methods. The drug release profiles of the prepared formulations were also evaluated. The results indicated that all the carriers increased the dissolution rate of naproxen in solid dispersions compared with the intact drug powder. The drug dissolution rate was improved by increasing the carrier's ratio. It was also found that the powder of the service tree fruit and crospovidone were more effective than veegum in enhancing the dissolution rate. The XRPD and DSC results confirmed the reduction of naproxen crystallinity in the solid dispersions. The FT-IR analysis did not show any interaction in the formulations. It could be concluded that the preparation of naproxen cogrounds using hydrophilic polymers is a promising approach to increase the drug dissolution rate. é ECV -Editio Cantor Verlag, Aulendorf (Germany).