Effect of a second solubilizate on the partition coefficient of drugs in micellar solution and their permeation rate across an artificial membrane

The distribution of a solubilizate between micelles and the aqueous phase does not obey a simple partition law when a second solubilizate species is present. Alterations of the apparent partition coefficient cannot be explained in terms of a simple displacement mechanism, following the interaction of both solubilizates with the same site of the micelle. A non linear increase in solubilizate association to micelles following an increase in surfactant concentration is observed in the presence of a second solubilizate. A depression in the cloud point temperature follows the addition of a second species and is such that cannot be interpreted as a simple additive effect. Alteration of the apparent partition coefficient in a miscellar solution has an effect on the permeation rate of the solubilizate across an artificial membrane. Biopharmaceutical implications are discussed.