Review of solubilization techniques for a poorly water-soluble drug: carbamazepine

Abstract

Solubility behavior of drugs remains one of the most challenging aspects in formulation development. With the introduction of various solubility improvement techniques it should be possible to overcome solubility-linked issues. Several years of research and various novel techniques for improvement of drug solubility have resulted in only a few marketed products. There are various techniques that were studied in depth to improve carbamazepine (CBZ) solubility. Several in vitro and in vivo studies have shown significant improvement in dissolution and bioavailability of CBZ. This article begins with an overview of the historical background and definitions of the various techniques, including the novel ones. The second part of the article is devoted to the techniques, materials used, procedures, and characterization of various developed formulations. The current review is further extended specifically to drug dissolution in relation to drug crystalline in various solubilization approaches.