Enhancing the Solubility and Dissolution of Ketoprofen by Recrystallization Method

Abstract

Poor solubility poses a significant challenge in drug development, leading to reduced bioavailability and therapeutic inefficacy. Ketoprofen, a poorly water-soluble drug with oral bioavailability around 50%, was selected for solubility improvement using solvates. Two solvate forms were obtained by recrystallization in chloroform and ethanol, both showing superior solubility and dissolution compared to pure Ketoprofen, with chloroform solvate outperforming ethanol solvate. Stability studies revealed that solvates may convert to more crystalline forms over time, impacting dissolution profiles. Tablets prepared from fresh and aged chloroform solvates via direct compression confirmed solvate suitability for pharmaceutical dosage forms. This study concludes that solvates present a viable approach to enhance solubility and dissolution of poorly soluble drugs like Ketoprofen, potentially improving bioavailability.