Enhancement of solubility and dissolution of Coenzyme Q10 using solid dispersion formulation

This study aimed to develop a stable solid dispersion of Coenzyme Q(10) (CoQ(10)) with high aqueous solubility and dissolution rate. Among various carriers screened, poloxamer 407 was most effective to form a superior solid dispersion of CoQ(10) having significantly enhanced solubility. Particularly, solid dispersion of CoQ(10) with poloxamer 407 in the weight ratio of 1:5 prepared by melting method enhanced the solubility of CoQ(10) to the greatest extent. However, it exhibited poor stability and hence Aerosil (R) 200 (colloidal silicon dioxide) was incorporated into the solid dispersion as an adsorbent to inhibit the recrystallization process. The solid dispersion of CoQ(10), poloxamer 407 and Aerosil (R) 200 in the weight ratio of 1:5:6 exhibited improved stability with no significant change in solubility during the 1-month stability test. Moreover, the solid dispersion formulation containing Aerosil (R) 200 significantly enhanced the extent of drug release (approx. 75% release) as well as the dissolution rate of CoQ(10). In conclusion, the present study has developed the stable solid dispersion formulation of CoQ(10) with poloxamer 407 and Aerosil (R) 200 for the enhanced solubility and dissolution of CoQ(10), which could also offer some additional advantages including ease of preparation, good flowability and cost-effectiveness. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.