Crystals semisolid formulations

Pharmacists should also take a dim view of changes in the particle size, size distribution, or particulate nature of semisolid suspensions. They are the consequence of crystal growth, changes in crystalline habit, or the reversion of the crystalline materials to a more stable polymorphic form. Any crystalline alteration can lead to a pronounced reduction in the drug-delivery capabilities and therapeutic utility of a formulation. Thus, products exhibiting such changes are seriously physically unstable and unusable. 

Solid Form Selection A drug can exist in multiple forms in the solid state. If the two forms have the same molecular structure but different crystal packing, then they are polymorphs. Pseudopolymorphs (or solvatomorphs) differ in the level of hydration/solvation between forms. Polymorphs and pseudopolymorphs in principle will have a different solubility, melting point, dissolution rate, etc. While less thermodynamically stable, polymorphs have higher solubilities they also have the potential to convert to the more thermodynamically stable form. This form conversion can lead to reduced solubility for the formulated product. One example is ritonavir, a protease inhibitor compound used to treat acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Marketed by Abbott Labs as Norvir, this compound began production in a semisolid form and an oral liquid form. In July 1998, dissolution tests of several new batches of the product failed. The problem was traced to the appearance of a previously unknown polymorph (Form II) of the compound. This form is thermodynamically more stable than Form I and therefore is less soluble. In this case, the solubility is at least a factor of 2 below that of Form I.12 The discovery of this new polymorph ultimately led to a temporary withdrawal of the solid form of Norvir from the market and a search for a new formulation. 

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