1. The essential consequences of polymorphism in the pharmaceutical field

1.1 Polymorphism/dissolution kinetics and bioavailability

Most drugs are still prescribed orally in solid form (tablets, capsules, suspensions). Once in the stomach, the galenic form undergoes a disintegration process, gradually releasing the active ingredient throughout the gastrointestinal tract. The active ingredient then passes into solution in a molecular state. It can then diffuse towards the intestinal cell wall. Through a process of permeation, the active molecule passes through the cellular system into the bloodstream, where it can reach its site(s) of action (figure 1...