Superior solubility and dissolution of zaltoprofen via pharmaceutical cocrystal

Objectives Pharmaceutical cocrystals are a promising tool to enhance the solubility and dissolution of poorly soluble drugs. Zaltoprofen (ZFN) is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug with a prevalent solubility problem. The present study was undertaken to enhance the solubility and dissolution of ZFN through pharmaceutical cocrystals by screening various coformers. Materials and Methods Cocrystals of ZFN were prepared in 1:1 and 1:2 ratio of drug:coformer by the dry grinding method. The melting point and solubility of the crystalline phase were determined. The potential cocrystals were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), infrared spectroscopy, and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD). Cocrystals were subjected to dissolution rate and stability study. Results ZFN-nicotinamide (NIC) cocrystals demonstrated deviation in melting point and solubility. The cocrystals were obtained in both 1:1 and 1:2 ratios with NIC. The infrared analysis noticeably indicated the shifting of characteristic bands of ZFN. The crystallinity of the cocrystals was evident from the XRPD pattern and notable difference in the 2θ values of intense peaks. The DSC spectra of the cocrystals exhibited altered endotherms analogous to melting point. The cocrystals showed a faster dissolution rate and a 55% increase in the extent of dissolution compared to pure drug. The cocrystals were stable at room temperature and accelerated conditions. Conclusion The prepared cocrystals exhibited greater solubility and dissolution compared to the pure drug and were stable at room temperature and accelerated conditions.