Traditional and Novel Methods for Cocrystal Formation: A Mini Review

Abstract

Pharmaceutical cocrystal is one of solid-state modification for drug substance, mainly for solubility improvement. Traditionally, cocrystal can be prepared by solvent evaporation method, grinding, and slurry method, but,

every method has limitation for certain condition. The current trend for

cocrystal formation uses the sophisticated method such as hot-melt extrusion method, spray drying method, supercritical fluid technology and the newest, and laser irradiation method. Development of new method is not only to overcome the limitation of traditional cocrystallization methods but also to generate a simpler step and continuous process for the production of cocrystal product. This article gives a brief explanation of each method that can be used to generate pharmaceutical cocrystals.