Polymorphy in pharmaceuticals by Raman Spectroscopy

During the last 5-10 years, the molecular solid state has gained recognition by the pharmaceutical industry for its role in drug manufacturing, stability, and activity. In addition, definition of the crystalline phase has become as important as molecular composition in patent protection. 

Simple Raman measurements of even ’off-the-shelf’ organic materials illustrate that it is possible to differentiate between materials that differ by : 

•    stereo isomer,
•    polymorphy,
•    pseudo polymorphy (due to water of hydration).

The potential of analytical Raman instrumentation in qualifying pharmaceutical products in this area is only now beginning to be exploited.