Introduction: For almost two decades there has been intense debate about whether the amorphous solid state form could resolve the solubility problems and subsequent bioavailability issues of many small molecule drugs. Since the amorphous form is a high energy and unstable state of solid matter, any material in that form requires stabilization.
Areas covered: This review examines the technologies being exploited to stabilize the amorphous state in co-amorphous formulations. The review emphasizes the importance of the appropriate selection criteria of stabilizing excipient and focuses on the mechanisms of stabilization.