The α- (alpha), β- (beta), and γ- (gamma) cyclodextrins correspond to six, seven, and eight glucose units, respectively.

The exterior surface of cyclodextrins is somewhat hydrophilic whereas the interior core is hydrophobic.

β-Cyclodextrin is moderately soluble in water and glycerin; well soluble in dimethyl sulfoxide, dimethylformamide, pyridine, HFIP, and ethylene glycol; and insoluble in ethanol and acetone.

[3] β-Cyclodextrin is widely used in medicine, pharmacy, food industry, textiles.

Hydrophobic forms of β- CD have been used as sustained release drug carriers.