Sciences of Pharmacy
Volume 2 Issue 4
Showing 5 Articles
RESEARCH ARTICLE
research articleAlpha Lipoic Acid Improves Memory and Antioxidant Enzymes Activity in Diabetic Wistar Rats
Usman Adamu Garkuwa, Malajiya Ibrahim Alhaji Saleh, Abdulwahab Alhassan, Mohammed Umaru Kawu
Diabetes mellitus (DM) and oxidative stress are among the leading causes of memory loss and dementia. Dietary supplements have been used to manage many disorders. This research aimed to determine the effect of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) on memory and oxidative stress in diabetic Wistar rats. 30 rats were grouped into six (5 in each). Diabetes was induced using a high-fat diet followed by a single low dose of streptozotocin (40 mg/kg) intraperitoneally. Group I served as normoglycemic control (1 mL/kg normal saline), while groups II, III, IV, V, and VI were diabetic and received 1 mL/kg at normal saline, glibenclamide at 1 mg/kg, ALA at 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg respectively for 21 days. Blood glucose level was determined before and after treatment. Long-term and recognition memory were determined using novel object recognition tasks (NORT). Brain tissues were used for antioxidant enzymes. The result obtained showed that at 400 mg/kg after 21 days of administration of ALA, long-term memory and recognition ability were increased significantly (45.65 ± 3.43s and 83.77 ± 1.49%) compared to the diabetic control (26.24 ± 3.81s and 65.09 ± 2.52%) respectively. Antioxidant enzymes’ levels were increased significantly in the group VI including catalase (1.76 ± 0.02 IU/mg) superoxide dismutase (1.02 ± 0.71 IU/mg) and reduced glutathione (91.08 ± 3.49 µg/mL) compared to the diabetic control group (0.84 ± 0.03 IU/mg, 0.49±0.03 IU/mg and 51.64 ± 0.87 µg/mL) respectively. The findings suggest that ALA has antioxidant activity and improves memory in diabetic Wistar rats.
Sciences of Pharmacy
2 Oct 20239 pages
research articleViability of Lactobacillus acidophilus in Effervescent Granules Prepared via Wet Granulation Method: In Vitro Study
Reza Pratama, Kholifa Nisya Melinda, Soni Muhsinin
Lactobacillus acidophilus, a strain of lactic acid bacteria widely used as a probiotic microorganism, has been extensively employed in developing probiotic products including in effervescent granules. This study's objectives were to ensure that the resultant granules possessed the desired physical attributes and retained the requisite viability of lactic acid bacteria. A wet granulation method was used. The formula was physically evaluated and analyzed using Design Expert software, followed by gram staining and bacterial harvesting. Gram staining verification demonstrated the gram-positive nature of the pure L. acidophilus bacterial isolates, as evidenced by their consistent purple coloration and characteristic basil shape. Evaluation of physical properties revealed organoleptic attributes such as granular shape, white coloration devoid of odor, flow rate of 1.497 g/sec, an angle of repose at 40.75o, compressibility of 11.45%, drying loss of 0.62%, and a foam height of 3.075 cm, consistently meeting the stipulated criteria. Furthermore, formula I, II, and III preserved L. acidophilus bacteria after being converted into effervescent granules, as evidenced by viable lactic acid bacteria counts, with formula I (412.5 x 101 cfu/g), formula II (422.7 x 101 cfu/g), and formula III (highest at 522.7 x 101 cfu/g). The formula I emerges as the most favorable effervescent granules containing L. acidophilus 3%; polyvinylpyrrolidone 3%; citric acid 0.3%; tartaric acid 49.7%; sodium bicarbonate 25% and lactose as filler. Based on the finding, this probiotic effervescent granules has the potential to be developed as a daily supplement, especially for flora normal stabilization.
Sciences of Pharmacy
25 Nov 202311 pages- research article
Identification of Antioxidant Compounds in Fig Leaves (Ficus carica L) Fractions Using LC-MS/MS
Rahmatul Qodriah, Shirly Kumala, Syamsudin Syamsudin, Nancy Dewi Yuliana, Partomuan Simanjuntak, Ervina Putri
The fig plant (Ficus carica L.) is one of the most popular ficus genera and is spread in tropical and sub-tropical regions throughout the world. Fig leaves have potential as antioxidants. The purpose of this study was to identify antioxidant compounds in the ethanol extract of fig leaves of the Iraqi variety. The research involved preparing extracts by maceration using 96% ethanol, 70% ethanol, and 50% ethanol, testing antioxidant activity and identifying their chemical structures using LC-MS/MS. Based on the results of the antioxidant activity test using the DPPH free radical scavenging method, it was shown that the 50% ethanol extract of fig leaves had a very strong antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 23.36 µg/mL. The results of identification with LC-MS/MS, it is estimated that the compound that has the potential as an antioxidant in the fig leaves of the Iraqi variety is the kaempferol compound.
Sciences of Pharmacy
9 Nov 20237 pages 
research articlePotential Drug Interactions in Inpatients with Chronic Kidney Disease at Undata Hospital, Palu City, Indonesia
Indah Kurnia Utami, Niluh Puspita Dewi, Syafika Alaydrus, Magfirah Magfirah, Musfirah Musfirah, Nur Azizah
Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) often receive a combination of medications, which can have beneficial effects but may also lead to ineffective treatment. The objective of this study was to analyze potential drug interactions in CKD patients admitted to the Seroja ward at Undata Hospital in Palu, Central Sulawesi Province, during the year 2022. The study was conducted prospectively from July 20 to September 18, 2022, involving a total of 40 patients. The research utilized a non-experimental observational design, and the results were presented descriptively using purposive sampling based on predefined criteria. Drug interaction were screened using the Drug Interaction Checker tool. The study revealed that among CKD patients, a higher percentage of men (55%) than women (44%) were observed, with the highest percentage in the age group of 46–55 (27.5%). The most commonly drug group used was loop diuretics and furosemide (18.75%). The most significant potential drug interactions were pharmacodynamic interactions (12.5% in 5 cases) with minor significance, followed by pharmacokinetic interactions (2.5% in 1 case) with major significance, particularly in the use of calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and statins. Based on the findings, minor interaction cases do not always yield negative outcomes. In certain clinical practices, these interactions are intentionally utilized to achieve favorable results. Instances of major interactions with drug use should be avoided, and alternative drugs should be considered. In urgent situations where the drug is necessary, restrictions can be applied, and close monitoring of the patient's clinical status is vital.
Sciences of Pharmacy
26 Nov 20236 pages
research articleRisk Factors and Adverse Drug Reactions in HIV/AIDS Patients at Undata Regional Hospital in Palu City, Indonesia
Ayu Wulandari, Dian Rahmawati, Utami Islamiati, Ficanata Adiguna Toding, Muflihatun Muflihatun
AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) is a clinical manifestation of the late stage of HIV infection (human immunodeficiency virus). This virus attacks CD4 cells in the immune system which is an important component in fighting infection. Without treatment, HIV can gradually destroy the immune system and lead to AIDS. This study aims to identify risk factors and determine and identify the type of ADR in HIV/AIDS patients at Undata Regional General Hospital Palu, Central Sulawesi province. This study used a cross-sectional observation method with prospective data collection, with a sample of 126 patients. Based on the results of the study, patients with HIV/AIDS had the most risk factors, namely homosexuality as many as 73 patients (58%), at the clinical stage, namely stage 3, 50 patients (39%), on opportunistic infection data, namely candidiasis, 35 patients (33%), and the initial CD4 cell count of <200 cells/mm3 in 27 patients (21%). Patients with HIV/AIDS who experienced ADR using antiretroviral drugs were 255 out of a total of 126 patients. Types of ADR that occur in HIV/AIDS patients include fever (6%), dizziness (47%), nausea (12%), vomiting (7%), insomnia (15%), easy hunger (1%), Hb low (1%), weakness (1%), rash (9%), headache (1%). Overall, these findings contribute valuable information for developing targeted interventions and improving the overall care and outcomes for individuals with HIV/AIDS.
Sciences of Pharmacy
29 Nov 20237 pages
Journal Key Facts
Publishing Fee (APC)
IDR 1,100,000
Open Access License
CC BY 4.0
Language
English
Overview
Sciences of Pharmacy (SciPhar) is an international, peer-reviewed open-access journal of pharmacy published by ETFLIN. We offer a platform and place for researchers and intellectuals, especially the youth, to share their insights and works. SciPhar accepts original article, reviews, mini-review, book-review, technical note, case report, case series, clinical trial, opinion/perspective, conference proceeding, and pictorial essay. Author may submit or suggest another type of scientific manuscript. Sciphar publishes 4 issues a year. Sciences of Pharmacy is affiliated with Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Islam Sultan Agung.
Latest Articles
Recently published research articles, review papers, and technical notes from the current volume of the journal.
- review
Genetic Polymorphism of N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) among Patients with Tuberculosis: A Scoping Review of the Indonesian Studies
Oki Nugraha Putra, Sylvia Rizki Ramadhani, Yulistiani Yulistiani, Julaeha Julaeha, Affan Yuniar Nur Hidayatullah
The distribution of N-acetyltransferase-2 (NAT2) genetic polymorphisms varies across ethnic groups among Indonesian TB patients. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence of NAT2 genetic polymorphisms and their association with DILI and isoniazid pharmacokinetics in Indonesian TB patients. A scoping review was conducted by searching Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR). We retrieved 668 studies from three databases and we enrolled 12 studies for final analysis. Eleven studies reported on adult TB patients and one study on pediatric TB patients. Overall, the available evidence suggests that the slow acetylator phenotype is relatively common among TB patients in Indonesia, although its distribution varies across regions and ethnic groups. The NAT2*6 polymorphism was frequently observed among TB patients with a slow acetylator phenotype. TB patients with slow acetylation exhibited higher serum concentrations of isoniazid, which were significantly associated with an increased risk of DILI. No studies reported an association between NAT2 genetic polymorphisms or acetylation status and treatment outcomes among TB patients. This review confirms substantial variation in NAT2 genetic polymorphisms across studies in Indonesia. TB patients with a slow acetylator phenotype appear to have a greater risk of developing DILI compared with those with intermediate or fast acetylator phenotypes. Information on acetylator status may identify patients at higher risk of hepatotoxicity, particularly those with the slow acetylator phenotype. Therefore, integrating NAT2 pharmacogenetics into clinical practice may predict hepatotoxicity and optimize tuberculosis therapy.
Sciences of Pharmacy
21 Apr 20269 pages - research article
Green-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using Erythrina subumbrans Leaf Extract: Optimization and Antibacterial Activity
Indri Maharini, Karen Putri Utami, Lilis Rachmawati, Fitrianingsih Fitrianingsih, Puspa Dwi Pratiwi
The high prevalence of acne and increasing antibiotic resistance necessitate the development of sustainable antimicrobial agents. This study investigated the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Erythrina subumbrans (Hassk.) Merr. leaf extract as a natural bioreductant and stabilizer. The primary objective was to optimize the synthesis process and evaluate the antibacterial efficacy of the resulting nanoparticles specifically against Propionibacterium acnes. Physicochemical and structural characterization were performed using spectroscopic and microscopic techniques to confirm the formation and stability of the nanoparticles. The results successfully demonstrated the synthesis of crystalline, nanoscale AgNPs with plant-derived functional groups facilitating their stabilization. Analytical data indicated a relatively uniform particle size distribution, spherical morphology, and favorable surface characteristics, suggesting high suitability for biomedical integration. Significantly, the synthesized AgNPs exhibited potent antibacterial activity against P. acnes. The underlying mechanism of action is attributed to the disruption of bacterial cell membranes, induction of intracellular reactive oxygen species, and subsequent interference with vital cellular functions. Utilizing E. subumbrans extract offers an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to conventional chemical synthesis, reducing the reliance on toxic reagents. These findings highlight the significant potential of plant-mediated AgNPs as innovative antimicrobial agents for dermatological applications. This research provides a robust foundation for the advancement of nanotechnology-based topical treatments. Consequently, further investigation into pharmaceutical formulation development, comprehensive safety assessments, and clinical efficacy trials is highly recommended to establish E. subumbrans-mediated silver nanoparticles as viable therapeutic solutions for managing acne and other skin-related infections in the future.
Sciences of Pharmacy
21 Apr 202611 pages - research article
Analysis of Psychotropic Drug Utilization in Patients With Organic Mental Disorders
Yuliawati Yuliawati, Indah Sri Wulan Sofyan, Nurul Kamilah Sadli, Fathnur Sani Kasmadi
Organic mental disorders are psychiatric conditions caused by identifiable brain pathology or specific systemic diseases, characterized by psychotic, affective, anxiety, and cognitive symptoms that can impair daily functioning. Psychotropic medications play a central role in their management; however, data on utilization patterns, particularly among outpatients in regional psychiatric hospitals, remain limited. This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the use of psychotropic drugs using the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical/Defined Daily Dose (ATC/DDD) method recommended by the World Health Organization, and to identify drugs within the Drug Utilization 90% (DU90%) segment to support rational drug use. This retrospective descriptive study utilized secondary data from medical records of outpatients diagnosed with organic mental disorders at Kolonel H. M. Syukur Regional Psychiatric Hospital, Jambi, in 2024, with a total sampling of 100 patients. The results showed that the total psychotropic drug utilization was 9.89 DDD per patient per day. Antipsychotics were the most frequently used class, followed by antidepressants and anxiolytics. The DU90% segment consisted of eleven drugs, predominantly atypical antipsychotics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and benzodiazepines, with olanzapine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, and alprazolam being the most commonly prescribed. Most patients were male, in the productive age group, and diagnosed with unspecified organic mental disorders. Overall, the pattern of psychotropic drug utilization reflects the complexity of clinical manifestations in organic mental disorders and underscores the importance of monitoring drug use to promote rational prescribing practices in clinical settings.
Sciences of Pharmacy
9 Apr 202611 pages - research article
Association Between Medication Adherence and Quality of Life Among Tuberculosis Patients: A Study at Permata Kuningan Hospital
Wawang Anwarudin , Salwa Diana Hanum, Liska Marlindasari, Anna Khalida Sya'bany, Nur Azizah
Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global health concern, particularly in high-burden countries such as Indonesia. Although TB is curable, prolonged therapy, potential adverse effects, and social stigma may affect medication adherence and patients’ quality of life (QoL). Evaluating the association between adherence and QoL is important to support patient-centered TB management. This study aimed to examine the association between medication adherence and quality of life among tuberculosis patients at Permata Kuningan Hospital. A cross-sectional analytic study was conducted involving 62 TB patients selected through purposive sampling. Medication adherence was assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8), and quality of life was measured using the EQ-5D-5L instrument. Data were analyzed using Spearman rank correlation. Most patients demonstrated high adherence (95.2%) and reported good quality of life (96.8%). Statistical analysis showed a significant positive correlation between medication adherence and quality of life (r = 0.384; p = 0.002), indicating that higher adherence was associated with better quality of life. These findings suggest a significant association between medication adherence and quality of life among TB patients. Strategies to support adherence, including education, counseling, and monitoring, may be considered as part of comprehensive TB care to optimize patient-centered outcomes.
Sciences of Pharmacy
6 Mar 20265 pages - research article
Effect of Tween 80 and Span 80 Surfactants Systems on the Malus domestica Emulsions for Anti-Cutibacterium acnes
Theodorus Rexa Handoyo, Juniar Kalpika Resmi, Rahmi Hutabarat, Yovi Guanse
Red apple (Malus domestica) extract, rich in hydrophobic quercetin, was formulated into oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion using a 22 factorial design to evaluate Tween 80 (8-10 g) and Span 80 (2-4 g) concentrations, targeting pH (4.5-6.0), transmittance (90-100%), and viscosity (10-2000 cPs). Design-Expert® 13 analysis identified formulations F1, FA, and FAB within acceptable physical property ranges, with all red apple emulsions exhibiting O/W type, skin-compatible pH (5.20-5.48), high transmittance, and suitable viscosity. Freeze-thaw cycling (3 cycles, -15/25°C) and centrifugation showed physical stability with non-significant changes for F1 (p > 0.05). The agar well diffusion assay was performed on F1 (n = 3), which exhibited optimal physical parameters and met stability criteria, revealing Cutibacterium acnes inhibition zones up to 22.7 ± 0.577 mm. Thus, F1 emerges as a promising nanoemulsion candidate demonstrating antibacterial activity against acne-causing bacteria.
Sciences of Pharmacy
16 Feb 20268 pages