The aim of this study was to compare the dissolution properties of ibuprofen solid oral dosage
forms commercially available in Bosnia and Herzegovina and to estimate the influence of
dissolution medium composition on the drug release. Eight products (A-H) were subjected to
in vitro dissolution test using experimental conditions described in USP42–NF37. Dissolution
properties of one selected product were examined in the presence of alcohol (22.2% v/v)
and fruit juice (22.2% v/v). Products marked B-H complied with the pharmacopeial criteria.
Dissolution profile of product B was similar with dissolution profiles of products D, E, F and
G and similarity was also found between products A-D, C-G, D-G and E-F. Drug release from
most of the examined preparations fitted best to the Weibull kinetic model. In the presence of
alcohol in the medium, higher amount of ibuprofen was dissolved. Contrary, ibuprofen dissolved
in the presence of fruit juice was significantly lower. Differences in the dissolution profiles of
investigated preparations suggest that their interchangeability should be additionally considered
and demonstrated with in vivo bioequivalence studies. Presence of different substances in the
medium can affect dissolution properties of ibuprofen, emphasizing the importance of the
patient’s compliance.
