Specializing in specific enhancement technologies

Croda Pharma specializes in four technologies aimed at improving bioavailability and solubility. First, nanoparticle-based delivery systems such as liposomes, nanoemulsions, and inorganic nanoparticles, offer large surface area to encapsulate drugs that further improves their solubility and bioavailability.₁ These systems can also protect active pharmaceutical ingredients from degradation and offer a targeted delivery. Additionally, there is reduction in toxicity, greater safety, and biocompatibility.₂ A tool that has recently emerged for the development of nano systems like solid lipid nanocarriers, nanoemulsions, liposomes etc. is microfluidic technology, which provides enhanced precision, efficiency and functionality₃, says Kritika Bajaj, PhD, Research Scientist at Croda Pharma. 

Second, self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS) and self-microemulsifying drug delivery systems (SMEDDS) are formulations consisting of oils, surfactants, solvents, and drug substance. They spontaneously form oil-in-water emulsions when introduced to aqueous phase. These systems enable improvement in oral bioavailability of a poorly water-soluble drug.₄ These systems are easy to make, economical, and scalable, says Dr. Bajaj. 

Third, amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) technology involves utilizing excipients to assist in dispersing a poorly soluble drug in a hydrophilic inert carrier matrix (usually a polymer) to enhance its solubility and dissolution rate upon administration. This technology works by increasing surface area, improving wettability, tailoring release profiles, and enhancing solubility by dispersing a drug in an amorphous state. 

Finally, a permeation enhancer works by improving the transport of poorly absorbed actives across biological barriers such as skin, mucosa, or gastrointestinal tract. They can aid transdermal and oral drug delivery._5,6 Compounds such as surfactants, dimethyl isosorbide (DMI), and lipid-based excipients can improve drug permeability across biological barriers, leading to increased bioavailability.₇ 

Dr. Bajaj says: “For the technologies discussed above, Croda’s portfolio of high purity excipients used as surfactants, permeation enhancers, polymers, lipids, and oils can play a significant role in the above-mentioned technologies to enable improved solubility and bioavailability of drugs.”