The complexation efficiency

Studies have shown that cyclodextrins form both inclusion and non-inclusion complexes and that several different types of complexes can coexist in aqueous solutions. In addition, both cyclodextrins and cyclodextrin complexes are known to form aggregates and it is thought that these aggregates are able to solubilize drugs through micellar-type mechanism. Thus, stability constants determined from phase-solubility profiles are rarely true stability constants for of some specific drug/cyclodextrin complexes. A more precise method for evaluation of the solubilizing effects of cyclodextrins is to determine their complexation efficiency (CE). CE can be determined by measuring the solubility of a given drug at 2–3 cyclodextrin concentrations in pure water or a medium constituting the pharmaceutical formulation such as parenteral solution or aqueous eye drop formulation. Based on the CE value the drug:cyclodextrin ratio in the complexation medium can be determined as well as the increase in the formulation bulk in a solid dosage form. Determination of CE is a simple method for quick evaluating the solubilizing effects of different cyclodextrins and/or the effects of excipients on the solubilization. Here we report the CE of 43 different drugs with mainly 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin but also with randomly methylated β-cyclodextrin as well as few other cyclodextrins. Calculation of CE, drug:cyclodextrin molar ratio and the increase in the formulation bulk is discussed, as well as the influence of the intrinsic solubility and drug lipophilicity on the CE.