Question 1

What is the Meaning of Partition Coefficient?

Accepted Answer

A precise physicochemical parameter, often denoted as P or its logarithmic form, $log P$, that quantifies the differential solubility of a compound between two immiscible phases, typically an organic solvent like octanol and an aqueous solvent like water. In the domain of hormonal pharmacology, this coefficient is a crucial predictor of a hormone or drug's lipophilicity, or fat-solubility. A high partition coefficient indicates a compound is highly lipid-soluble, which is a critical determinant of its ability to readily cross biological membranes, such as the skin barrier in transdermal delivery.

Question 2

What is the Origin of Partition Coefficient?

Accepted Answer

This is a fundamental concept in physical chemistry, rooted in the Nernst distribution law, which mathematically describes how a solute distributes itself between two phases at equilibrium. In the 20th century, the application of the octanol-water system became the standard, clinically relevant method for modeling a drug's partitioning between the lipid bilayer of cell membranes and the aqueous environment of the body. The coefficient is now an essential metric for predicting the pharmacokinetics of therapeutic agents.

Question 3

What is the Mechanism of Partition Coefficient?

Accepted Answer

The partition coefficient directly and profoundly influences the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) profile of a hormone or drug. For successful transdermal delivery, a compound must possess a balanced lipophilicity—high enough to dissolve effectively in the lipid-rich stratum corneum, yet low enough to readily partition into the aqueous dermis and systemic circulation. Compounds with a very high $log P$ tend to accumulate inefficiently in fat tissue, while those with a very low $log P$ struggle to cross lipid membranes entirely. This metric thus governs the bioavailability and tissue targeting of hormonal therapies.

Partition Coefficient

Meaning

Origin

Mechanism

How Do Different Carrier Oil Viscosities Affect Topical Hormone Delivery?

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