Abstract: 
In this study, a novel crystalline form of ibuprofen (IBF) was prepared using glycerol as a medium and PEGylated rosin derivative as a crystal-habit modifier. The crystals were characterized for morphology, particle size and melting point. FT-IR spectroscopy was performed to examine the difference in peak characteristics of IBF and its novel crystalline form (IBF-glycerol). Tablets were prepared by the wet granulation method and characterized for pharmacotechnical properties. Dissolution study of IBF, IBF-glycerol and their tablets was performed in distilled water. IBF and IBF-glycerol exhibited rod and rhombic shape crystals, respectively. FT-IR spectra revealed slight differences in absorption peaks of IBF and IBF-glycerol. The colour and IR spectra of IBF and IBF-glycerol did not differ significantly. The particle size of IBF-glycerol was smaller (5-10 µm) compared to IBF (15-35 µm). Melting point of IBF and IBF-glycerol was in the range of 74-76°C and 65-68°C, respectively. The drug release from IBF and IBF-glycerol powders at the end of 600 min was 52.13% and 69.22%, respectively. Tablets could release 47.72% IBF and 58.21% IBF-glycerol at the end of 600 min. Drug release from all the tablets followed first order kinetics. Results revealed that glycerol and PRD could produce the novel rhombic crystals of IBF having lower particle size, melting temperature and markedly faster dissolution than native IBF.

Keywords: Ibuprofen, Glycerol, Novel Crystalline Form, Tablets, Release Kinetics.