Piroctone Olamine Solubilization in Sulfate-Free Shampoo Formulations
Piroctone olamine presents distinct solubility challenges in sulfate-free formulations, with conventional solubility typically limited to 0.5% w/w at neutral pH. Laboratory measurements indicate a logarithmic decrease in solubility as pH falls below 5.0, with precipitate formation observed within 48-72 hours in unbuffered systems when subjected to temperature cycling between 25°C and 40°C.
The fundamental challenge lies in maintaining stable piroctone olamine concentrations while eliminating sulfate-based surfactants that have traditionally served as both solubilizers and preservative potentiators.
This page brings together solutions from recent research—including inter-polymer complexes of polyethylene glycol with polyacrylic acid, polyanionic solubility enhancers combined with buffer components, alternative surfactant systems, and stabilized microemulsion techniques. These and other approaches provide formulation scientists with practical methods to achieve piroctone olamine stability in sulfate-free systems without compromising antimicrobial efficacy or sensory properties.
1. Formation of Inter-Polymer Complexes of Polyethylene Glycol and Polyacrylic Acid for Drug Solubility Enhancement
DOW GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC, 2025
A method for improving the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs classified as Class II in the Biopharmaceutics Classification System. The method involves forming inter-polymer complexes of polyethylene glycol (PEG) with polyacrylic acid (PAA) to enhance aqueous solubility. The PEG-PAA complex is prepared under conditions sufficient to form at least some inter-polymer complexes, and then the active pharmaceutical ingredient is added to the complex solution. The resulting complex solution exhibits significantly improved aqueous solubility compared to pure drug or PEG alone, with enhanced dissolution rates and bioavailability.
2. Aqueous Drug Formulation with Polyanionic Solubility Enhancer and Buffer Component
ALLERGAN INC, 2016
Enhancing the solubility of poorly water-soluble drugs in aqueous formulations through the use of a combination of a polyanionic solubility enhancer and a buffer component. The solubility enhancer, comprising carboxymethylcellulose and dextran, specifically increases the solubility of the drug in the therapeutic environment, while the buffer component maintains the drug's pH within a therapeutic range. This dual-component approach enables effective drug delivery in formulations where conventional solubilizers may not be effective.
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