Eco-friendly alternatives to conventional solvents: Innovations and applications in pharmaceutical manufacturing
Bibhas Pandit, Projesh Saha
Abstract
In response to rising ecological issues and regulatory restrictions, the pharmaceutical sector is increasingly using green solvents as environmentally friendly substitutes for conventional solvents. Emphasizing the application of bio-based solvents, water-based solvents, supercritical fluids, and deep eutectic solvents, this review explores the developments in green chemistry in the pharmaceutical sector. Bio-based solvents, such as dimethyl carbonate, limonene, and ethyl lactate, have low toxicity and biodegradable properties and ensure decreased release of volatile organic compounds. Aqueous solutions of acids, bases, and alcohols are examples of water-based solvents that are non-inflammable and non-toxic substitutes. Bioactive chemicals are extracted selectively and efficiently with little harm to the ecosystem using supercritical CO 2 and other supercritical fluids. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs), which are created by joining donors and acceptors of hydrogen bonds, have special qualities and are used in chemical synthesis and extraction procedures. Case examples of the pharmaceutical industry's successful implementation of new green solvent systems are included in this review. However, issues related to technological performance, scalability, economic viability, and regulatory frameworks must be resolved for broad acceptance. Emerging possibilities for innovative green solvent systems include hybrid solutions, the incorporation of renewable energy resources, and the implementation of computational methods. For optimal performance, environmental preservation, and sustainable drug development, the pharmaceutical sector must switch to green solvents.