Cyclodextrins: properties and aplications of inclusion complex formation

Muñoz-Botella, S.; del Castillo, B. y Martín, M.A.

Laboratorio de Técnicas Instrumentales. Sección Departamental de Química Analítica. Facultad de Farmacia.UCM 28040 Madrid.España

Ars Pharm.36;(2);187-98, (1995)



Key words: Cyclodextrins, Complexes, Pharmaceuticals, Solubilization

Abstract

Cyclodextrins are macrocyclic compounds consisting of a varying number of D(+) glucopiranose residues linked through alpha(1-4) bonds. The most widely used are alfa-, beta-, gamma-cyclodextrins containing respectively 6.7 and 8 glucose units. In spite of their hihg aqueous solubility, the inner cyclodextrin cavity is non-polar and they can form complexes with many types of molecules placed inside this cavity. Most industrial applications of cyclodextrins aim at improving certain properties of finished products (solubility, organoleptic properties, stability). In this article several applications of cyclodextrins to pharmaceutical industry and chemical catalysis are reviewed. Analytical applications are also considered, since cyclodextrin inclusion improves the sensitivity and selectivity of most analytical methods.

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