Recent advances and patents in solid dispersion technology

High lipophilicity and high lattice energy of drugs, which result in poor solubility are major real challenges in the pharmaceutical industry for the successful development and commercialization of suitable dosage forms. Therefore various formulation strategies like complexation, lipid based systems, micronization, nanonization, co-crystals, solid dispersions, solubilization etc. have been investigated to resolve the problems associated with solubility related oral bioavailability of poorly water soluble drugs. This article focuses on solid dispersions which is used as one of the formulation strategies to improve the solubility and bioavailability of BCS class II drugs. The present review discusses the fundamentals of solid dispersions, their formulation techniques including various carriers used, their applications, limitations as well as provide an insight into the various alternative approaches to overcome problems associated with solid dispersions. This review also discusses some important aspects of solid dispersion like phase transition, importance of Tg for solid dispersion, controlled release formulations, IVIVC, and the prospect of innovative solid dispersions. Furthermore, the different patents highlighting the applications of solid dispersions have also been comprehensively discussed in the present review.