Researchers have made significant headway by determining the solubility of methyldopa, a common antihypertensive drug, when mixed with supercritical carbon dioxide (ScCO₂). This study not only offers insights for drug delivery applications but also champions green technology's potential to produce fine particles efficiently.
The study signifies the first comprehensive measurement of methyldopa's solubility across varying pressures ranging from 12 to 30 MPa and temperatures between 313.2 to 343.2 K—providing valuable data for enhancing pharmaceutical effectiveness. This is particularly relevant as improved drug bioavailability through enhanced solubility can reduce dosage requirements, minimize side effects, and lead to more consistent therapeutic outcomes.
Significantly, the researchers employed advanced empirical models including Chrastil, Bartle et al., and the renowned Kumar-Johnston (K-J) model, engaging statistical methods to correlate the solubility data. Among these, the K-J model demonstrated remarkable accuracy with an average absolute relative deviation (AARD) of 8.38% and R² value reaching 0.988, establishing it as the most effective method for predicting drug solubility under supercritical conditions.
The experimental conditions yielded mole fractions ranging from 0.805 × 10⁻⁵ to 11.345 × 10⁻⁵, with the highest solubility recorded at 30 MPa and 343.2 K, showcasing how temperature and pressure variances can dramatically affect dissolving efficiency. While observing solubility changes, the research highlighted the cooperative roles of CO₂ density and methyldopa's sublimation vapor pressure, providing insights relevant to the continuum between pressure and thermal dynamics.
With the backdrop of enhancing pharmaceutical agents’ bioavailability, this study contributes broadly to nanoparticle drug delivery applications. Utilizing ScCO₂, which is celebrated for its safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability, the study highlights the modern shift toward utilizing supercritical fluids as solvents. This effectively minimizes waste and promotes cleaner production methodologies.
Further studies leveraging these results could lead to the formulation of more effective drug regimens using supercritical technology for the manufacture of specific nanoparticles. By pursuing this advanced approach through empirical evidence, the potential for economic and therapeutic advancements within the pharmaceutical sector looks promising.
This research not only stands as a reference point for producing fine methyldopa particles but also reflects the industry's gradual movement toward greener pharmaceutical practices.