Sciences of Pharmacy
Articles Published in Volume 4 Issue 4
The authors are from these countries: India, Indonesia, Taiwan.
Satyajit Pandurang Kulkarni, Pritam Chugule, Pallavi Satyajit Kulkarni. Notice of RETRACTION: Randomized Open Clinical Trial to Evaluate Netratarpana Efficacy in Elderly Patients with Primary Insomnia (Anidra). Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):205-205.
Abstract: This article has been retracted due to non-compliance with the journal’s Clinical Trial Registration Policy. The study reported a clinical trial that was not registered in a WHO-recognized public registry, as required by international standards (ICMJE, WHO, COPE). Although the author sought retros
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Abstract: This article has been retracted due to non-compliance with the journal’s Clinical Trial Registration Policy. The study reported a clinical trial that was not registered in a WHO-recognized public registry, as required by international standards (ICMJE, WHO, COPE). Although the author sought retrospective registration, no confirmation was provided within the required timeframe. The editors apologize for not identifying this issue before publication.
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Retracted
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Tri Diana Puspita Rini, Savinatunnajah Savinatunnajah, Eka Rosa Yustina, Gisela Amaliah Putri Ramadhany, Putri Aprillia Shafara, Oliffia Rahma. Phytochemical Modulation of Neurotransmitter Systems and Neuroplasticity in Depression and Anxiety: A Mechanistic Review. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):206-214.
Abstract: Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent mental health disorders worldwide, contributing substantially to disability and mortality, particularly among young adults aged 15–24 years. Their pathophysiology is closely associated with dysregulation of key neurotransmitters, emphasizing the
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Abstract: Depression and anxiety are among the most prevalent mental health disorders worldwide, contributing substantially to disability and mortality, particularly among young adults aged 15–24 years. Their pathophysiology is closely associated with dysregulation of key neurotransmitters, emphasizing the need for safer and more effective long-term therapeutic strategies. Herbal medicine represents a promising alternative due to its multifaceted bioactivity and lower incidence of adverse effects. This review systematically evaluates bioactive compounds from selected medicinal plants and their modulatory effects on neurotransmitter pathways involved in depression and anxiety. Relevant studies published within the past five years were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases, with inclusion criteria encompassing in vitro and in vivo investigations of phytochemical actions on neurotransmitter systems. The analysis revealed that plants such as Melissa officinalis (lemon balm), Mimosa pudica, Senna alexandrina, Helianthus annuus, Rosa spp., Laurus nobilis, Mentha piperita, Citrus reticulata, Centella asiatica, Chamaemelum nobile, and Ginkgo biloba exhibit significant antidepressant and anxiolytic properties through modulation of monoaminergic transmission, regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, and enhancement of neuroplasticity. These plants also demonstrate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective activities that further support their therapeutic potential. In conclusion, herbal-based interventions may serve as valuable complementary approaches for managing depression and anxiety. Nevertheless, well-designed clinical studies are essential to validate their efficacy, safety, and mechanisms in long-term use.
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Neurotransmitter modulation
Monoamine oxidase inhibition
GABAergic system
HPA axis regulation
Neuroplasticity enhancement
Phytopharmacology
Views: 406, Download: 11, HTML
Mohamad Aprianto Paneo, Teti Sutriyati Tuloli, Moh Rivai Nakoe, Nikmasari Pakaya, Nurain Thomas, Rifka Anggraini Anggai, Multiani S. Latif. Web-Based Pharmacoinformatics Platform for Generic Drug Information in Gorontalo, Indonesia. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):215-223.
Abstract: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based drug information application in providing accessible and reliable drug-related information to the public in Gorontalo Province, Indonesia. A prospective, non-randomized study was conducted with 205 participants from the Gorontalo community
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Abstract: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based drug information application in providing accessible and reliable drug-related information to the public in Gorontalo Province, Indonesia. A prospective, non-randomized study was conducted with 205 participants from the Gorontalo community. Participants completed a structured questionnaire assessing their experience with the "Cari Obatmu" feature on the Ikatan Apoteker Indonesia (IAI) Gorontalo website. The questionnaire covered various aspects such as user interface, search efficiency, clarity of drug indications, side effects, and usability. Descriptive statistics, Cronbach's Alpha for reliability, One-Way ANOVA for demographic differences, and effect size analysis were used in data analysis. The findings indicated high user satisfaction, with mean scores ranging from 4.16 to 4.28 across different aspects assessed. A Cronbach’s Alpha value of 0.975 confirmed excellent internal consistency of the data. The One-Way ANOVA analysis revealed no significant differences in satisfaction scores among demographic groups (p = 0.636), with effect sizes being minimal. The web-based drug information application was well-received, particularly for its functionality and ease of use. However, further improvements are necessary to enhance user experience and feature development. These findings highlight the potential to expand web-based drug information tools to improve public health outcomes in Indonesia, considering the diverse demographic and user needs.
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Drug Information
Web Application
User Satisfaction
Health Informatics
Usability Evaluation
Views: 440, Download: 19, HTML
Made Anindya Ayu Dyavaprathivi, Yustrida Maisa, Ni Made Dwi Sandhiutami. Hair Growth and Antibacterial Effects of Nanoparticle-Based Cosmeceutical Tonic from Pogostemon cablin and Morus alba Leaves. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):224-230.
Abstract: Hair loss affects a substantial portion of the global population, regardless of age or gender. One effective strategy to address this problem is the use of hair tonics that stimulate hair follicle activity and promote hair growth. This study developed an innovative cosmeceutical nanoparticle-based h
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Abstract: Hair loss affects a substantial portion of the global population, regardless of age or gender. One effective strategy to address this problem is the use of hair tonics that stimulate hair follicle activity and promote hair growth. This study developed an innovative cosmeceutical nanoparticle-based hair tonic combining Nilam and Mulberry leaf extracts, termed nanoNilamBerry. The formulation was prepared using the ionic gelation method and evaluated on rabbits over 28 days by assessing hair length, growth rate, and hair weight. The nanoNilamBerry formulation fulfilled the physicochemical requirements of a nanoparticle system and demonstrated good stability at 4 °C, 25 °C, and 40 °C for up to 28 days. In antibacterial assays against Staphylococcus epidermidis, the Nilam–Mulberry extract produced an inhibition zone of 16.36 ± 0.35 mm, while nanoNilamBerry exhibited a larger zone of 18.4 ± 0.30 mm. The hair tonic formulation showed no signs of skin irritation. The nanoNilamBerry treatment resulted in a hair growth rate of 0.13 ± 0.03 cm/day and a final hair weight of 32.36 mg, compared to 0.09 ± 0.01 cm/day and 27.3 ± 0.31 mg for the simple Nilam–Mulberry extract. Overall, the nanoNilamBerry hair tonic demonstrated superior efficacy, promoting hair growth 3.04 times faster than the untreated control and 1.45 times faster than the non-nano extract combination. These findings indicate that nanoNilamBerry not only provides effective antibacterial protection but also significantly enhances hair follicle stimulation and growth performance.
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Antibacterial
Hair tonic
Hair growth
Mulberry leaf
Nanoparticles
Nilam leaf
Views: 439, Download: 14, HTML
Yani Mulyani, Marita Kaniawati, Widhya Aligita, Eka Rahmat Nugraha. Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Gynura procumbens Mitigates Hyperglycemia, Dyslipidemia, and Tissue Damage in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):231-238.
Abstract: Dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder frequently associated with diabetes mellitus and known to increase cardiovascular risk. Although Gynura procumbens has been reported to possess antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic properties, studies focusing on the specific effects of its ethyl acetate frac
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Abstract: Dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder frequently associated with diabetes mellitus and known to increase cardiovascular risk. Although Gynura procumbens has been reported to possess antidiabetic and antidyslipidemic properties, studies focusing on the specific effects of its ethyl acetate fraction remain limited. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of the ethyl acetate fraction of ethanol extract from G. procumbens in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, particularly its impact on blood glucose, lipid profiles, and histological changes in pancreatic and aortic tissues. Thirty rats were randomly assigned to six groups: normal control, diabetic control, glibenclamide, simvastatin, and extract-treated groups at 100 and 150 mg/kg body weight. After 28 days of treatment, the 150 mg/kg dose significantly reduced blood glucose by 61.3%, total cholesterol by 42.1%, triglycerides by 47.3%, and LDL by 55.0%, while increasing HDL by 6.3% compared to diabetic control (p < 0.05). Histological analysis demonstrated regeneration of pancreatic β-cells and improvement of vascular structure in the aorta. These findings suggest that the ethyl acetate fraction of G. procumbens may serve as a promising natural agent for managing diabetes and dyslipidemia.
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Flavonoid compounds
Insulin secretion
Lipid metabolism
Pancreatic β-cell regeneration
Oxidative stress reduction
Vascular protection
Views: 398, Download: 26, HTML
Novi Febrianti, Lina Widyastuti, Septiana Saputri, Lalu Muhammad Irham. Formulation and Stability Evaluation of Red Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) Extract Gel. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):239-250.
Abstract: Red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is known for its strong antioxidant properties and potential anti-aging effects. To enhance its benefits and improve usability, this fruit extract was formulated into a gel preparation. This study aimed to determine the optimal proportions of Carbopol 940 and
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Abstract: Red dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is known for its strong antioxidant properties and potential anti-aging effects. To enhance its benefits and improve usability, this fruit extract was formulated into a gel preparation. This study aimed to determine the optimal proportions of Carbopol 940 and triethanolamine (TEA) to obtain a gel with desirable physical characteristics. The flesh of red dragon fruit was juiced and concentrated to produce an 8% extract. Three formulations were prepared with varying ratios of Carbopol 940 to TEA: 0.5%:0.3% (F1), 1.2%:0.7% (F2), and 2%:1.2% (F3). The gels were evaluated for physical properties, antioxidant activity, and antibacterial activity. The most promising formula was subjected to stability testing for three cycles under different temperature conditions: cold (3°C), room temperature (27°C), and climatic chamber (40°C, 75% RH). Results showed that formula F2 exhibited a characteristic red color, clear appearance, distinctive oleum rosae aroma, moderately thick and homogeneous consistency, viscosity of 3112.47 ± 177.90 cps, spreading diameter of 5.20 ± 0.20 cm, adhesion time of 18.45 ± 0.89 s, and pH of 5.33 ± 0.02. No significant changes were observed after the stability testing (p > 0.05), indicating that the formulation remained stable under all temperature conditions. F2 also showed higher antioxidant activity than F1 and better antibacterial properties than F3. Its stability and bioactivity support its potential as a promising natural cosmeceutical formulation.
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Red dragon fruit
Hylocereus polyrhizus
Carbopol 940
Triethanolamine
Gel
Antioxidant
Antiaging
Views: 217, Download: 13, HTML
Steven Victoria Halim, Stefany Marcellia Kumala, Fatichatus Sharifah, Eko Setiawan, Antonius Adji Prayitno Setiadi. Self-Medication Practices among University Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):251-260.
Abstract: Self-medication is a treatment effort often undertaken by students, especially when the burden on healthcare services increases due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Nevertheless, up to five years after the onset of the global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, no empirical
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Abstract: Self-medication is a treatment effort often undertaken by students, especially when the burden on healthcare services increases due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Nevertheless, up to five years after the onset of the global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, no empirical evidence has been found to elucidate the self-medication practice among students in Indonesia. This observational study with a cross-sectional design aimed to identify students' self-medication practices at a university during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The research data was collected online using a questionnaire (Google Form). The questionnaire used consisted of two parts: student characteristics and student self-medication practices. A total of 1,019 students were involved in this study. The most used drugs for self-medication by students were vitamins/multivitamins (91.66%) and analgesics (64.57%). Most medicines used by students were obtained from pharmacies (88.71%), while information related to drugs was obtained from recommendations from friends and family members (72.72%). The primary consideration that prompted students to self-medicate during the COVID-19 era was the easy access to medicines (83.81%). Students' self-medication practices during a health service delivery crisis can be irrational. As this study was conducted within a single institution using a specific sampling approach, the findings should be regarded as context-specific rather than broadly generalizable.
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Self-medication
Healthcare delivery crisis
COVID-19
University students
Views: 153, Download: 30, HTML
Adi Yugatama, Anas Muti'ah Syahrul Azizah, Syaiful Choiri, Ya-lin Huang. The Effect of Poloxamer 188 on the Solubility and Dissolution Behaviors of Piroxicam-PEG 4000 Solid Dispersions. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):261-269.
Abstract: Piroxicam (PRX), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is classified as a biopharmaceutical classification system class II (high permeability and low solubility), which limits its bioavailability. Enhancement of the dissolution rate is a key strategy to enhance the absorption. Solid disper
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Abstract: Piroxicam (PRX), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is classified as a biopharmaceutical classification system class II (high permeability and low solubility), which limits its bioavailability. Enhancement of the dissolution rate is a key strategy to enhance the absorption. Solid dispersion systems, particularly when combined with amphiphilic multiple co-block polymers, offer a promising approach to address this challenge. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Poloxamer 188 (P188) and the solid dispersion technique on the solubility and dissolution rate of PRX. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000-based solid dispersions containing PRX were prepared using varying concentrations of Poloxamer 188 surfactant through the fusion method. The solid dispersions were evaluated for saturated solubility in water for 24 hours. Selected formulations were further characterized using thermal analysis and vibrational spectroscopy. The optimized solid dispersion formulation was filled into capsules, and a dissolution assay was carried out to compare its performance with that of pure PRX capsules. The optimized formula, comprising 3% P188 and PEG4000, demonstrated a significant enhancement in saturation solubility parameters (p < 0.05), specifically the Cmax/S0 ratio. Additionally, dissolution testing showed a 22.22% increase in the dissolution rate of the PRX solid dispersion capsules compared to pure PRX capsules. In conclusion, P188-based solid dispersion containing PRX enhanced the solubility and dissolution rate, potentially improving therapeutic efficacy.
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Piroxicam
Poloxamer 188
Solid dispersion
Solubility
Dissolution
Views: 148, Download: 5, HTML
Asriana Sultan, Rinaldi Rinaldi, Sri Sulistiana Sulaiman, Nuur Aanisah, Akhmad Khumaidi, Zulhaerana Bahar, Armini Syamsidi. Low Glycemic Index Taro Tuber (Colocasia esculenta L.) Flakes as Alternative Food Product for Diabetes Management. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):270-277.
Abstract: Flakes are a type of instant food product commonly consumed as a breakfast alternative, especially those labelled “low-glycaemic index” can be suitable for individuals with diabetes. Taro tubers (Colocasia esculenta L.) containing high fibre and low fat are among the raw materials that can be pr
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Abstract: Flakes are a type of instant food product commonly consumed as a breakfast alternative, especially those labelled “low-glycaemic index” can be suitable for individuals with diabetes. Taro tubers (Colocasia esculenta L.) containing high fibre and low fat are among the raw materials that can be processed into instant food. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and determine the glycaemic index (GI) of Taro tuber flakes as an alternative processed food product for individuals with diabetes. Three distinct formulas, namely F1, F2, and F3, were developed with varying drying temperatures of 40 °C, 60 °C, and 80 °C. These were comprehensively evaluated through sensory testing (hedonic and scoring), followed by the analysis of moisture content, ash content, microbial examination, and glycaemic index. The results showed that all three developed formulas F1, F2, and F3 xhibited low glycaemic index values (below 55), along with acceptable moisture and ash content, and were free from Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi contamination. Among them, F2, which was dried at 60 °C, showed the lowest glycaemic index value of 15.1, indicating its potential to produce a minimal postprandial blood glucose response. Furthermore, F2 received an average hedonic score of 6, which indicates favorable sensory acceptance in terms of taste, color, texture, and aroma. Therefore, F2 was selected as the most suitable formula that can be consumed as an alternative food product to help manage diabetes through low-GI dietary strategies.
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Colocasia esculenta L
Diabetes
Flakes
Glycaemic index
Views: 248, Download: 4, HTML
Indah Woro Utami, Sapri Sapri, Nishia Waya Meray, As'ari As'ari. Evaluation of Antimicrobial Properties of Passiflora foetida Root Extract Sourced from Rehabilitated Coal Mining Sites in East Kalimantan. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):278-285.
Abstract: Utilizing cover crops like Passiflora foetida L. (rambusa) can mitigate significant environmental issues in post-coal mining terrain rehabilitation. Plants thriving in extreme environments are known for producing high levels of secondary metabolites with significant biochemical activity. This study
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Abstract: Utilizing cover crops like Passiflora foetida L. (rambusa) can mitigate significant environmental issues in post-coal mining terrain rehabilitation. Plants thriving in extreme environments are known for producing high levels of secondary metabolites with significant biochemical activity. This study sought to assess the antifungal and antibacterial effects of P. foetida root extracts derived from rehabilitated coal mine soil in East Kalimantan. The roots were macerated with solvents of differing polarity (ethanol, ethyl acetate, and n-hexane) for extracting specific fractions. Utilizing the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method, the antifungal efficacy was assessed against Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, and Candida lipolytica at a 60% concentration. Conversely, the antibacterial efficacy was assessed against Shigella dysenteriae, Streptococcus mutans, and Cutibacterium acnes at a 10% concentration. The findings revealed that the fraction consisting of ethyl acetate demonstrated the most potent and extensive antibacterial efficacy. The ethanol extract and ethyl acetate fraction exhibited significant antifungal activity, particularly against C. tropicalis, with inhibitory zones that were similar to those of the positive control, fluconazole. The treatments exhibited significant differences, as confirmed by statistical analysis (ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test). Studies indicate that that P. foetida roots, particularly those from harsh settings, are a significant source of antimicrobial chemicals, with the semi-polar ethyl acetate fraction being the most promising for further development as a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent.
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Passiflora foetida
Antimicrobial
Antifungal
Cover crop
Reclaimed mine land
Fraction
Views: 140, Download: 2, HTML
Annisa Maharani Wibowo, Yasmi Purnamasari Kuntana, Tanendri Arrizqiani, Ratu Safitri. Differential Regulation of Slc40a1, Fth1, and Hmox1 by Deferasirox in Splenic Iron Overload. Sciences of Pharmacy. 2025; 4(4):286-291.
Abstract: Iron overload, often arising from repeated transfusions in thalassemia major, disrupts iron homeostasis and induces oxidative stress. Deferasirox is a widely used oral chelator, yet its effects on splenic iron-regulatory gene expression remain unclear. This study investigated the impact of deferasir
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Abstract: Iron overload, often arising from repeated transfusions in thalassemia major, disrupts iron homeostasis and induces oxidative stress. Deferasirox is a widely used oral chelator, yet its effects on splenic iron-regulatory gene expression remain unclear. This study investigated the impact of deferasirox on ferritin heavy chain (Fth1), ferroportin (Slc40a1), and heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox1) expression in a rat model of splenic iron overload. Eighteen male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into three groups (n = 6 each): normal (N), iron dextran-induced overload without treatment (KN), and iron overload treated with deferasirox (KP). Gene expression was quantified by real-time PCR using the 2−ΔΔCT (Livak) method, with statistical analysis performed via one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test. Iron overload significantly upregulated Fth1 (2.26-fold) and Slc40a1 (1.72-fold) versus controls (p < 0.05). Deferasirox treatment reduced Fth1 (3.28-fold decrease) and Slc40a1 (1.15-fold reduction) relative to untreated overload, though not significantly (p > 0.05). In contrast, Hmox1 expression markedly increased (55.25-fold, p < 0.05) following deferasirox administration. These results indicate that deferasirox selectively modulates splenic iron-regulatory genes, suggesting both chelation and adaptive stress-response mechanisms, thereby supporting its therapeutic role in managing iron overload.
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Deferasirox therapy
Iron overload
Splenic gene expression
Fth1
Slc40a1
Hmox1
Views: 248, Download: 7, HTML
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