Borneo Journal of Pharmacy

Stability Evaluation on Diminazene Diaceturate and Phenazone in Bulk and Combined Formulations using Validated Chromatographic Method

Amna Mubarak, Shaza Shantier, Magdi Mohamed, Elrasheed Gadkariem — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The combined therapy of Diminazene Aceturate (DMZ) and Phenazone (PHENZ) is widely used in veterinary medicine to combat trypanosomiasis and babesiosis. This study presents a novel, validated HPLC method for the precise and accurate quantification of DMZ and PHENZ in various pharmaceutical formulations, including bulk powders, sachets, vials, and injectables. The chromatographic separation was achieved using a C18 column (150 x 4.6 mm, 5 μm particle size) with a mobile phase composed of phosphate buffer (pH 3.0) and methanol (70:30 v/v) at a flow rate of 1 mL/minute. UV detection was set at 250 nm. The method demonstrated linearity over a concentration range of 20-100 μg/mL for DMZ and 25-125 μg/mL for PHENZ, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.999. To assess the method's stability-indicating power, forced degradation studies were conducted under various stress conditions. DMZ exhibited first-order degradation under acidic pH conditions. While slight degradation (2.4-3.1%) was observed under alkaline, UV light, and indoor room light conditions, PHENZ remained stable. The validated HPLC method effectively quantified DMZ and PHENZ in the presence of their degradation products and impurities, demonstrating its suitability for quality control and stability studies of these combined drug formulations.

Isolation and Identification of Marine Bacteria in Raja Ampat Islands West Papua Producing Antibacterial Against Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus

Dede Mahdiyah, Muhammad Rifqi Dharmawan, Noval Noval — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Indonesia's vast archipelago harbors a wealth of natural resources, including marine bacteria with potential antibacterial properties. Given the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance, particularly against Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus, there is a pressing need to explore alternative antimicrobial agents. This study aimed to isolate and characterize marine bacteria with antibacterial activity and evaluate their efficacy against S. typhi and S. aureus. Isolation of marine bacteria was conducted using the spread plate method. Antibacterial activity screening of the secondary metabolites was performed using the well diffusion method. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the dilution method, while minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was determined using the spread plate method. Seven bacterial isolates were obtained, all identified as Gram-negative bacilli. The secondary metabolites of these marine bacteria demonstrated antibacterial activity against both S. typhi and S. aureus, with inhibition zones of 8.50 mm and 8.46 mm, respectively. The MIC for both bacteria was determined to be 1500 μg/mL. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in antibacterial activity between the isolates (Kruskal-Wallis Test, p-value = 0.007) and between S. typhi and S. aureus (Mann-Whitney Test, p-value = 0.025). While the secondary metabolites exhibited antibacterial activity against both bacteria, they did not demonstrate bactericidal activity as measured by the MBC test.

Antidiarrheal Potential of Maja (Crescentia cujete) Fruit Extract in Mice

Teodhora Teodhora, Rosario Trijuliamos Manalu, Richi Andika Saputra — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Diarrhea, characterized by frequent, loose stools, can be treated with various approaches. This study investigated the antidiarrheal properties of maja (Cresentia cujete) fruit extract, which contains secondary metabolites like tannins and flavonoids with astringent properties. The objective was to determine the optimal dose of C. cujete fruit extract for treating diarrhea in mice. An in vivo experimental design was employed, inducing diarrhea in male mice using oleum ricini. The study assessed stools' onset, duration, consistency, frequency, and weight. Cresentia cujete fruit extract was administered orally at 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg BW doses. A comparison was made with negative control (CMC-NA) and positive controls (loperamide and attapulgite). Data analysis involved ANOVA followed by the Tukey test. The findings revealed that 500 mg/kg BW of C. cujete fruit extract was the most effective dose for treating diarrhea in mice. These results suggest the potential of C. cujete fruit extract as a promising natural antidiarrheal agent.

Monoclonal Antibodies for Treatment of COVID-19: An Updated Review of Current Evidence

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The emergence of COVID-19 in December 2019 spurred a global effort to develop effective medical interventions. Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have emerged as a promising strategy to combat the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Several mAbs targeting the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein have received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for treating mild to moderate COVID-19. Additionally, human mAbs and hyperimmune plasma derived from recovered COVID-19 patients have been explored as potential therapeutic options. This review delves into the potential of mAbs for the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 infection. We discuss the mechanisms of action of mAbs, as well as their advantages and limitations. Furthermore, we explore the ongoing research and development efforts to optimize mAb-based therapies for COVID-19.

Post-COVID Mucormycosis: An Emerging Threat in Developing Countries - A Prospective Review

Debpratim Chakraborty, Sudipa Adhikary — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

COVID-19, with its rapidly mutating strains, poses a significant global health challenge. Recent reports of a surge in mucormycosis cases among COVID-19 patients highlight the urgent need for understanding and addressing this critical complication. This review explores the factors contributing to mucormycosis development in COVID-19 patients and outlines strategies for prevention and management. Several factors, including high glucose levels (diabetes, onset, steroid-induced hyperglycemia), low oxygen levels, elevated iron levels (especially ferritin), metabolic acidosis, and diabetic ketoacidosis, can facilitate the germination of mucor spores. COVID-19 patients with underlying conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or organ transplants are particularly susceptible to mucormycosis due to their immunocompromised state. The growth of the mucor pathogen requires free iron, which is elevated in conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis. This elevated iron level promotes the formation of Cot-H, a crucial component of fungal growth, leading to mucormycosis. Additionally, comorbidities and corticosteroids can suppress the immune system, hindering the body's ability to fight off infections like mucormycosis. Therefore, it is imperative to avoid the indiscriminate use of corticosteroids. Strict control of acute hyperglycemia and comprehensive monitoring of diabetic and immunocompromised COVID-19 patients are essential preventive measures. By addressing these factors, healthcare providers can mitigate the risk of mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients and improve overall outcomes.

Standardized Herbal Extract for Wound Healing: A Comparative Study of Centella asiatica, Curcuma domestica, and Heterotrigona itama Honey Combination in Rabbits

Diniatik Diniatik, Paula Mariana Kustiawan, Halida Suryadini — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Centella asiatica and Curcuma domestica are recognized for their wound-healing properties. This study investigated the synergistic effects of combining these plant extracts with stingless bee (Heterotrigona itama) honey on wound healing in rabbits. Ethanolic extracts of C. asiatica and C. domestica were prepared in a 1 : 10 ratio. Blended formulations containing 20% plant extracts and 80% honey were created in two ratios: 1 : 1 and 2 : 1. The total flavonoid and tannin content of the plant extracts were quantified. Male rabbits were subjected to a wound-healing model, and the formulations were applied topically for seven days. Wound healing was assessed, and the results were compared to a positive control. The ethanolic extracts of C. asiatica and C. domestica were found to be rich in flavonoids and tannins. The blended honey formulations exhibited promising wound-healing effects, with Formula 2 (2 : 1 ratio of plant extracts) demonstrating slightly superior results compared to Formula 1 and the positive control. These findings suggest the potential of the combined extracts of C. asiatica, C. domestica, and H. itama honey as effective wound-healing agents.

Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Potential of Gels from Foam Mat Drying and Ethanolic Extract of Red Spinach (Amaranthus cruentus)

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Red spinach (Amaranthus cruentus), a rich source of antioxidant anthocyanins, is susceptible to light degradation. Foam mat drying (FMD) is a promising technique to preserve these pigments. This study compared the physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of gels incorporating FMD and ethanolic extracts of A. cruentus (EEAC). Both extracts were incorporated into gels at varying concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%). FMD-EEAC gels exhibited a darker red color and significantly higher total anthocyanin content (8.33 ± 0.25/100 g) and stronger antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ of 35.67 ± 1.87 ppm) compared to EEAC gels (10.45 ± 0.15/100 g and IC₅₀ of 47.88 ± 2.45 ppm, respectively). Both gel types had similar pH values (5.32-5.77). Increasing the concentration of either extract affected the viscosity, spreadability, and adhesion of the gels. Importantly, FMD-EEAC gels displayed significantly higher antioxidant activity (58.75 ± 2.12 to 64.72 ± 2.01%) than EEAC gels (31.75 ± 2.13 to 50.12 ± 3.01%) across all formulations. These findings suggest that FMD-based gels offer a superior delivery system for A. cruentus antioxidants, potentially leading to innovative food products with enhanced nutritional value and health benefits.

Rationality of Tuberculosis Treatment for Drug-Susceptible Pulmonary Tuberculosis at a Primary Care in Bandung

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, particularly in Indonesia. Ensuring rational TB treatment is crucial for effective disease control and preventing the emergence of drug resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the rationality of TB treatment among newly diagnosed drug-susceptible pulmonary TB patients in a primary care center in Bandung. A descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 56 patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Treatment rationality was assessed based on the Indonesian Society of Respirology 2021 and the National Guidelines for Medical Services 2020. While 100% of patients received the correct medication for the right indication and dose, the duration of therapy was suboptimal for most patients (83.93%) due to drug unavailability. This resulted in a lower-than-ideal treatment regimen, potentially compromising treatment outcomes and increasing the risk of drug resistance. These findings highlight the need for improved drug supply management and adherence to treatment guidelines to optimize TB treatment outcomes and reduce the burden of TB in Indonesia.

Formulation and Evaluation of Soursop (Annona muricata) Leaf Extract Nanoemulgel Against Propionibacterium acnes

Nabila Ikramina, Rehana Rehana, Rahmad Aji Prasetya, Dhadhang Wahyu Kurniawan — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Annona muricata (soursop) leaves are rich in antimicrobial compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and phenols. This study aimed to develop a nanoemulgel formulation incorporating A. muricata leaf ethanol extract to enhance its efficacy against Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium associated with acne vulgaris. Four nanoemulgel formulations containing varying concentrations of the extract (0%, 0.5%, 0.7%, and 1%) were prepared and evaluated for their physical properties (organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, spreadability, and viscosity) and stability through freeze-thaw cycles. The formulation with the highest extract concentration (Formula III) was selected for further characterization (particle size, morphology, and zeta potential) and antimicrobial testing against P. acnes. All formulations met the established physical property and stability criteria. Formula III exhibited a particle size of 20.5 nm and a zeta potential of 9.8 mV, indicating a stable nanoemulsion with well-dispersed particles. Antimicrobial testing revealed that Formula III demonstrated a strong inhibitory effect against P. acnes, with an average inhibition zone of 19.00 mm. These findings suggest that A. muricata leaf extract-loaded nanoemulgel has the potential to be a promising topical formulation for acne treatment. Further research is warranted to optimize the formulation and evaluate its efficacy in clinical settings.

Polyphenol Content and Antioxidant Evaluation of Kawista (Limonia acidissima) Leaf Extract

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Kawista or Limonia acidissima, a plant traditionally used by the Bima community, offers potential health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential of ethanol extract from L. acidissima leaves by determining total flavonoid content (TFC), total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity using DPPH, FRAP, and CUPRAC assays. The ethanol extract exhibited significant antioxidant activity, with IC₅₀ values of 10.445 and 135.42 µg/mL for DPPH and CUPRAC assays, respectively. TPC and TFC were determined to be 14.63 mgGAE/g extract and 113.9 mgQE/g extract, respectively. These findings suggest that L. acidissima leaf extract possesses potent antioxidant properties, which may be attributed to its flavonoid and phenolic content. Further research is warranted to explore this plant extract's underlying mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic applications.