Porous Microparticles Containing Raloxifene Hydrochloride Tailored by Spray Freeze Drying for Solubility Enhancement

Purpose: The goal of this study was to improve the solubility and dissolution behavior of Raloxifene Hydrochloride (RH) using Spray Freeze Drying (SFD) technique. Methods: For achieving this goal, series of samples containing RH with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) or hydroxypropyl beta cyclodextrin (HPβCD) used as solubility enhancers were prepared and microparticles were formed via SFD. The resultant microparticles were physicochemically characterized. Morphology of the microparticles were observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was used for analyzing the solubility and dissolution profile of the samples. Results: Fourier Transmission Infrared (FTIR) spectra showed that SFD processed compositions did not affect chemical structure of RH. SEM and Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (TGA) revealed that the fabricated spherical and highly porous microparticles were in amorphous state. SFD processed powders showed superior solubility and dissolution behavior; where, 80% of the drug was dissolved within 5 minutes. Conclusion: SFD method can be a promising alternative for enhancing the solubility of poorly water soluble compounds.