Enhancement of solubility of dexibuprofen applying mixed hydrotropic solubilization technique

Dexibuprofen, is a practically water-insoluble nonsterodial anti-inflammatory drug which has a better anti-inflammatory effect than ibuprofen. A mixed hydrotropic solubilization technique was applied in order to improve the aqueous solubility and dissolution rate of dexibuprofen. Nine formulae were prepared using different concentrations of hydrotropic agents (sodium citrate dihydrate and urea). The prepared formulae were inspected visually for color and odor. Hygroscopicity, micromeretic properties, solubility, and pH for 1% aqueous solutions were determined. In-vitro dissolution studies of the different prepared formulae were performed adopting the USP XXII dissolution method type I basket apparatus method. The prepared formulae were characterized by infrared (IR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The prepared formulae were a white color, odorless, slightly hygroscopic and exhibited good flow properties. Formulae containing higher amounts of hydrotropic agents exhibited an increase in the pH, solubility, rate and amount of dexibuprofen released from the dissolution medium. The highest dissolution rate was achieved from the F9 formula at drug: sodium citrate dihydrate: urea ratio (1: 3: 7.5). IR and DSC thermograph of dexibuprofen, hydrotropic agents and prepared formulae indicated the presence of intermolecular interaction between drug and hydrotropic agents which increased solubility and dissolution rate of drug, also, there is no chemical interaction confirming the stability of the drug with hydrotropic agents.