Synthesis, characterization and molecular modelling of a novel dipyridamole supramolecule – X-ray structure, quantum mechanics and molecular dynamics study to comprehend the hydrogen bond structure–activity relationship

Abstract Hydrochloride salt formation for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) is the primary choice to impart aqueous solubility and to promote dissolution. Dipyridamole (DIP) is a cardiovascular drug which is practically insoluble in water. We discovered a new form of DIP called as dipyridamole hydrochloride trihydrate (DIPHT), which was prepared by an unusual method of reacting the DIP with hydrated hydrochloric acid (HCl) that was liberated in situ by the reaction of ferric chloride with water. The liberated HCl was consumed as reagent in situ by the scavenger (API) and was converted to a hydrochloride trihydrate. The product was characterized by FTIR, mass spectroscopy, PXRD and DSC. Supramolecular structure of this novel DIPHT was revealed by single crystal XRD. A sustained intramolecular hydrogen bond alliance was found in DIP and the DIPHT. Stability of this hydrogen bond was further evaluated by means of molecular modelling studies. We performed electron calculations using quantum mechanics (QM) on both the base and salt structures to compare their geometry and molecular orbital energy levels. Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations were also conducted in explicit solvent models to provide more insights into the hydrogen bond strength and conformational preferences of the base and salt structure. Together with QM and MD, we were able to explain the influence of hydrogen bonds on proton uptake activity of DIP and stability of DIP and DIPHT. DIPHT which can dissolve faster than DIP in water may enhance the dissolution and bioavailability of the drug. As the current drug development research is shifting to repurpose the existing drugs in order to subside the untoward risks in new drug development, we believe that DIPHT with its intrinsic aqueous solubility could bring more application for DIP and generate interest within the pharmaceutical industry.