Current Perspectives on Development and Applications of Cocrystals in the Pharmaceutical and Medical Domain

In recent years, the design of pharmaceutical cocrystals has garnered significant attention. The process of cocrystallization offers a remarkable opportunity to develop drug products with enhanced properties such as improved stability, solubility, hygroscopicity, dissolution rate, and bioavailability. This detailed review delves into this evolving area, thereby exploring its relevance in pharmaceutical formulation by defining cocrystals and their practical applications and also by discussing methods for their preparation as well as characterization. It also contrasts traditional and innovative techniques for cocrystal formation. Historically, cocrystals have been synthesized using methods like solvent evaporation, grinding, and slurry techniques; however, each has its own set of limitations under specific conditions. The latest trends in cocrystal formation lean toward more advanced approaches such as spray-drying, hot melt extrusion, and supercritical fluid technology, as well as the cutting-edge technique of laser irradiation. The aim behind developing new methods is not just to address the limitations of traditional cocrystallization techniques but also to streamline the process by introducing simpler steps and enabling a continuous production workflow for cocrystal products. In general, this full-length review article offers a report on various techniques available for the creation of pharmaceutical cocrystals, along with the methods for their evaluation. Moreover, it includes reporting developments and diverse applications of cocrystals along with the commercially available cocrystals in the pharmaceutical as well as medical domains.