Nanocrystals and their applications in pharmaceutical technology: An up-to-date overview

Abstract

Due to their poor solubility and poor bioavailability, the majority of recently produced novel chemical entities pose significant challenges in the formulation and development of new dosage forms. The pharmaceuticals in Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) classes II and IV have a solubility issue; nanotechnology is the most effective solution to this issue. The preparation of nanocrystals and the numerous methods utilized to create them are the major topics of this review article. Since there is no matrix material present in drug nanocrystals, they are a carrier-free form of drug delivery. For pharmaceuticals in BCS classes II and IV, nanocrystal technologies have been suggested as beneficial, all-purpose formulation methods. The dissolving rate and saturation solubility of active agent can be efficiently increased by nanocrystals because of their higher surface to volume ratio. Major used routes of administration, including oral, IV, SC, IM, and topical administration are acceptable for the nanocrystals drug delivery system. For use in sterile products, nanocrystals can also be added to tablets, capsules, quick melts, and lyophilized materials. Precipitation, milling, high pressure homogenization, and combination methods like Nano-EdgeTM, SmartCrystal® are just a few of the production techniques employed today.

Keywords

• bioavailability improvement
• saturation solubility
• dissolving velocity
• pearl milling
• high pressure homogenization
• nanocrystal

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