Hydrophilization is a process used for hydrophobic drugs to increase their release rate from capsules, which is dependent on the rate of dissolution

Dissolution (chemistry)

Dissolution is the process by which a solid, liquid or gas forms a solution in a solvent. In solids this can be explained as the breakdown of the crystal lattice into individual ions, atoms or molecules and their transport into the solvent. For liquids and gases, the molecules must be compatible...

, by covering the surface of the drug particles with minute droplets of a hydrophilic polymer solution.

Method of Hydrophilization

The process is accomplished by vigorous mixing of the hydrophobic drug with the aqueous solution of the hydrophilic polymer solution, leading to production of small particles of the drug covered with small droplets of the hydrophilic polymer solution.

Uses

This process in tablet or capsule formulations enhance the disintegration of the drug/excepient bulk and so enhance the rate of dissolution

Dissolution (chemistry)

Dissolution is the process by which a solid, liquid or gas forms a solution in a solvent. In solids this can be explained as the breakdown of the crystal lattice into individual ions, atoms or molecules and their transport into the solvent. For liquids and gases, the molecules must be compatible...

 of the hydrophobic drug.

Examples of the hydrophilic polymers are methyl cellulose and hydroxyethyl cellulose

Hydroxyethyl cellulose

Hydroxyethyl cellulose is a gelling and thickening agent derived from cellulose. It is widely used in cosmetics, cleaning solutions, and other household products....

.