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.
- case report
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Carboplatin-Paclitaxel, Cisplatin-Pemetrexed, and Carboplatin-Gemcitabine Chemotherapy Regimens in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer at Persahabatan Central General Hospital
Venni Melinda, Yusi Anggriani, Sondang Khairani, Fitri Nurhayati
Platinum-based chemotherapy remains an important treatment option for patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly in settings where reimbursement and resource allocation are major considerations. A retrospective observational cost-effectiveness study was conducted using medical records and billing data from adult patients with NSCLC who received carboplatin–paclitaxel, cisplatin–pemetrexed, or carboplatin–gemcitabine in 2023. Effectiveness outcomes included the one-year survival rate (%) and median progression-free survival (PFS). Costs were calculated based on direct medical expenses over six chemotherapy cycles. Cost-effectiveness was assessed using ACER, ICER, and dominance analysis. A total of 101 patients were included: 81 received carboplatin and paclitaxel, 14 received cisplatin and pemetrexed, and 6 received carboplatin and gemcitabine. Mean direct medical costs were IDR 27, 588, 547, IDR 41, 214, 281, and IDR 47, 471, 752, respectively. No statistically significant differences were observed in one-year survival rate or median PFS among the regimens, although interpretation should consider the unequal sample sizes (81 vs. 14 vs. 6), which limit statistical power. Based on one-year survival, carboplatin–paclitaxel had the lowest ACER and dominated the other regimens by providing higher observed survival at lower cost. Based on median PFS, cisplatin–pemetrexed provided longer PFS than carboplatin–paclitaxel but at a higher cost, requiring ICER-based interpretation. Carboplatin–paclitaxel was associated with the lowest direct medical cost and the most favorable cost-effectiveness profile based on one-year survival among the evaluated regimens. However, conclusions should be interpreted cautiously because of the retrospective design, small and unequal group sizes, and potential confounding by baseline clinical characteristics.
Sciences of Pharmacy
12 Jul 202610 pages - research article
Characterization of Gomphrena globosa L. Flower Extract and Anti-Acne of Formulated Cream Against Cutibacterium acnes
Stefani Alya Swasa Wuryanto, Ida Ayu Manik Damayanti, Putu Indrayoni
Cutibacterium acnes is a cause of acne. Conventional treatments often lead to side effects and bacterial resistance, necessitating natural alternatives. Globe Amaranth (Gomphrena globosa L. ) shows potential as an anti-acne agent. This study employed an in vitro experimental laboratory design to evaluate the anti-acne activity of G. globosa L. flower extract formulated cream against C. acnes using the well diffusion method. Antibacterial activity was tested using KN (base cream), KP (1% clindamycin cream), F1 (10%), F2 (15%), and F3 (20%), and the data were analyzed using SPSS statistical analysis. Results indicated that the ethanolic extract of GA flowers has an IC50 of 85.483 ppm, TPC of 60.456 ± 0.589 mg GAE/g, and TFC of 34.390 ± 0.989 mg QE/g. It exhibited antibacterial activity against C. acnes, with inhibition zone diameters of 6.693 ± 0.2 mm for the 15% formula and 7.382 ± 0.22 mm for the 20% formula. The antibacterial activity is believed to be driven by the presence of secondary metabolites, particularly phenols and flavonoids identified in the extract.
Sciences of Pharmacy
4 Jul 202611 pages - research article
Comparative Effectiveness of Sunnah Fasting Variations on Fasting Blood Glucose Monitoring in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Pragmatic Pilot Study
Abdur Rosyid, Satibi Satibi, Fita Rahmawati, Lutfan Lazuardi
Intermittent fasting has increasingly been incorporated into complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) strategies for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The extent to which weekly fasting frequency dictates glycemic outcomes is well-noted; however, the distinct clinical benefit of increasing Sunnah fasting adherence to two days weekly remains an unresolved question in diabetes management. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Monday-only Sunnah fasting versus combined Monday and Thursday Sunnah fasting on Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG) among patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). This research is a pre-experimental employing a within-subject exploratory pilot comparison with a single-group pre-post design involving 50 participants selected through purposive sampling, with data analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test (p < 0.05). The results demonstrated that most participants (84%) were between 43 and 54 years of age, and the majority were female (56%). practicing Sunnah fasting twice weekly (Monday and Thursday) resulted in significantly lower average FBG (186,67 mg/dL) compared to fasting only once a week on Mondays (202.28 mg/dL), statistically significant reduction in FBG (Z= -2.660, p= 0.008; r= 0.37, Cohen’s d= 0.79). The study suggests that practicing Sunnah fasting twice weekly offers a more favorable impact on fasting blood glucose control for T2DM patients than fasting only once a week.
Sciences of Pharmacy
28 Jun 20266 pages - research article
Ancestral Heritage Toward Health Innovation: A Study of the Antibacterial Activity of Betel Leaf (Piper betle Linn.) Extract from the Betel-Chewing Tradition Against Oral Pathogenic Bacteria
Norhidayah Norhidayah, Safira Maza, Novita Anggraeni, Taufik Qurrahman, Rizki Rahmadi Pratama, Yulistia Budianti Soemarie
Traditionally, menginang (a mixture of betel leaf, areca nut, gambir, and lime) has been used as a natural antibacterial agent. This study aimed to compare the antibacterial activity of single betel leaf extract and menginang extract against four oral pathogenic bacteria in vitro. This study compared the antibacterial activity of traditional menginang extract and single betel leaf extract against multiple oral pathogenic bacteria to evaluate their potential synergistic antibacterial effects. The experimental method used a disk diffusion technique at three concentrations (12.5%, 25%, and 50%), and the data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc tests. Chlorhexidine 0.2% was used as the positive control, while distilled water was used as the negative control. The 50% menginang extract showed the strongest antibacterial activity against all tested bacteria, with inhibition zones ranging from 22.76 ± 1.38 mm to 28.22 ± 0.14 mm, and the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The inhibition zones produced by the 50% menginang extract were close to those of 0.2% chlorhexidine. The superiority antibacterial activity of menginang extract may be associated with synergistic interactions among alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, triterpenoids, and steroids identified during phytochemical screening. The menginang extract has high potential to be developed as an innovative natural product for oral health.
Sciences of Pharmacy
10 Jul 202612 pages - research article
GC-MS Profiling and Literature-Based Mechanistic Prediction of Lemon Essential Oil and Mango Leaf Extract as Potential Supportive Candidates for Nicotine Addiction Management
Sulistiyaningsih Sulistiyaningsih, Tri Diana Puspita Rini, Indiana Gita Anggraeni
Nicotine addiction remains a major global health problem that necessitates the development of safe and effective supportive therapies. This study aimed to characterize the metabolite profiles of lemon essential oil (Citrus limon (L.) Burm. f. ) and 96% ethanol extract of mango leaves (Mangifera indica L.) using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and to explore their potential mechanisms in nicotine addiction management through a literature-based mechanism mapping approach. Compounds were identified based on retention time, mass spectrum matching, and relative peak area percentages. GC-MS analysis showed that lemon essential oil was predominantly composed of D-limonene (58.72%), followed by β-pinene (13.82%) and γ-terpinene (11.43%). Meanwhile, the 96% ethanol extract of mango leaves was dominated by methyl gallate (27.61%), along with several phenolic compounds and triterpenoids, including vitamin E and lupeol. The identified metabolites suggest distinct but potentially complementary biological activities. Lemon essential oil may exert supportive effects through neuromodulatory pathways, whereas mango leaf extract may contribute through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. These findings indicate that both natural products possess potential complementary roles as supportive agents in nicotine addiction management. However, further biological and clinical studies are required to validate their efficacy and safety.
Sciences of Pharmacy
30 Jun 20266 pages