Pamoate

Pamoate

Pamoate, also known as embonate, is a chemical compound used in the formulation of various pharmaceutical drugs. It is primarily used as a salt form to enhance the solubility and stability of certain medications. Pamoate salts are often employed in the treatment of parasitic infections and as long-acting formulations in psychiatric medications.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Pamoate is the salt form of 4,4'-methylenebis(3-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid). It is characterized by its large, complex structure, which contributes to its ability to form stable salts with various active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The chemical formula for pamoate is C23H16O6, and it has a molar mass of 388.37 g/mol.

Pharmaceutical Applications

Pamoate salts are used in a variety of medications due to their ability to improve the pharmacokinetic properties of drugs. Some notable applications include:

Antiparasitic Medications

Pamoate salts are commonly used in antiparasitic drugs. For example, Pyrantel pamoate is widely used to treat infections caused by intestinal worms such as pinworms, roundworms, and hookworms. The pamoate form of pyrantel allows for a more effective delivery and prolonged action in the gastrointestinal tract.

Psychiatric Medications

In the field of psychiatry, pamoate salts are used to create long-acting injectable formulations. For instance, Fluphenazine pamoate and Haloperidol decanoate are used in the management of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. The pamoate salt form allows these medications to be administered less frequently, improving patient compliance.

Mechanism of Action

The primary role of pamoate in pharmaceutical formulations is to act as a counterion that enhances the solubility and stability of the active drug. By forming a salt with the active ingredient, pamoate can modify the release profile of the drug, allowing for sustained or delayed release, which is particularly beneficial in long-term treatments.

Safety and Side Effects

The safety profile of pamoate salts depends largely on the active drug with which they are combined. Generally, pamoate itself is considered safe when used as a pharmaceutical excipient. However, patients should be aware of the potential side effects associated with the active drug component.

Also see

• Pyrantel pamoate
• Fluphenazine pamoate
• Haloperidol decanoate
• Antiparasitic drugs
• Long-acting injectable antipsychotics