Catatan

Poor water solubility is one of the major challenges in pharmaceutical development because it can affect drug dissolution, absorption, and bioavailability in the body. This problem requires appropriate formulation approaches to improve drug solubility and enhance drug delivery. This study aims to describe various solubility theories, the characteristics of poorly water-soluble drugs, and formulation strategies that can be applied to improve drug solubility and dissolution. The method used is a literature review based on the second edition of "Water-Insoluble Drug Formulation", edited by Rong (Ron) Liu. The discussion covers preformulation, physicochemical properties, biopharmaceutics, pharmacokinetics, and various technologies for improving drug solubility. The formulation strategies discussed include the use of cosolvents, complexation, emulsions, microemulsions, lipid-based drug delivery systems, micellization, liposomes, pharmaceutical salt formation, prodrugs, particle size reduction, and solid dispersions. Each approach has different mechanisms and characteristics; therefore, its selection should be adjusted to the properties of the drug and the objectives of formulation development. Improving drug solubility and dissolution rate is expected to enhance drug bioavailability and support the development of more effective and higher-quality pharmaceutical preparations.

Keywords: poorly water-soluble drugs, drug solubility, pharmaceutical formulation, dissolution, bioavailability.