Evaluating experimental, knowledge-based and computational cocrystal screening methods to advance drug-drug cocrystal...

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Materials Science
• Drug Development

Background:

• Fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) offer benefits like improved drug delivery and extended patent life.
• Drug-drug cocrystals (DDCs) represent a promising FDC strategy, but their development is hindered by a lack of standardized screening methods.
• Identifying cocrystal formation potential between co-administered active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is crucial for successful FDC formulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and evaluate existing methods for cocrystal and DDC screening.
• To provide a guide for selecting suitable screening strategies to accelerate FDC and DDC development.
• To address the limitations impacting the commercialization of DDCs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of experimental cocrystal screening techniques.
• Evaluation of knowledge-based approaches for cocrystal prediction.
• Analysis of computational methods for cocrystal screening.
• Discussion of the background, application, and limitations of each screening category.

Main Results:

• Existing screening methods for cocrystals and DDCs vary in their applicability and limitations.
• A comprehensive evaluation of experimental, knowledge-based, and computational methods is presented.
• The review highlights the need for coherent strategies to facilitate DDC commercialization.

Conclusions:

• Selecting appropriate cocrystal screening methods is essential for accelerating FDC development.
• This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers aiming to optimize FDC and DDC formulation strategies.
• Standardized and efficient screening approaches will drive the successful commercialization of DDCs.