Physicochemical stability of phenobarbital polymorphs at various levels of humidity and temperature

The physicochemical stability of six phenobarbital modifications [forms A, B, C (monohydrate), D (dioxane solvate), E (hemihydrate), and F] at various levels of humidity and temperature were measured using X-ray diffractometry and differential scanning calorimetry. Form D was identified as a new crystalline form (dioxane solvate). Polymorphic transformations of the modifications were investigated by the Kissinger method under nonisothermal conditions. Change of polymorphic content of phenobarbital modifications under various humidity levels at 45 degrees C was evaluated by X-ray powder diffraction. The polymorphic stability under isothermal conditions was estimated kinetically, based upon the Jander equation. Forms A, B, and F were stable at 0 and 75% RH and 45 degrees C for 3 months. On the contrary, forms C, D, and E transformed during storage. The transformation rates of form D were larger than that of forms C and E.