Solubilization

Micellar core is Praffin like and so capable of dissolving oil soluble molecules.

Definition
The process whereby water insoluble substances are brought into solution by incorporation into micelles is termed as solubilization.

Factor Affecting Solubilization

Nature of Surfactant
In homologous series of Ionic surfactant solubilizing power increases with increase of hydrocarbon chain length In non-ionic surfactants an increase in oxyethylene chain length decreases the solubilizing power.

Nature of the Solubilizate

No relation between the amount of solubilized and the physical properties of solubilized molecule exists. An increase in alkylation Length of homologous series of solubilizate results into decrease in solubility Unsaturated compounds are relatively more soluble than their saturated counter parts Branching of solubilizate has no effect but cyclization generally increase the solubilization

Effect of temperature
In most system the amount of solubilized increases with increase in temperature this is particularly true in non-ionic surfactant as an increase in temperature gives/ causes an increase in micellar size.

Pharmaceutical Application of Solubilization

A wide range of insoluble drugs have been formulated using the principle of solubilization Phenobic Compounds (Cersol, Chlorocersol, Chlorokylenol, Thymol etc.) are solubilizing in water exploiting the principle of solubilization. e.g. Dettol Solubilization of Iodine in Non-Ionic Surfactant Such preparation is known as iodophores Iodophores are less corrosive when used for surgical sterilization than Iodide-Iodine System. Steroids for ophthalmic Preparation Optical Clarity Requirement limits the use of oily solution so non-ionic surfactants (polysorbate or polyethylene sorbitian, esters of fatty acids are used to prepare solution of steroids in water.

 Essential/Volatile Oils are solubilized using the principle of solubilization Water insoluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) Fat soluble vitamins are made water soluble e.g. multivitamin syrups/ drops Problem of Cloud Point is always there because it is decrease with added substances. Sucrose esters are used though increase hemolytic properties. Many other drugs like Analgesics Sedatives Sulfonamide Antibiotics etc. These drugs are also solubilized using the solubilizing technique.