Sciences of Pharmacy
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Sciences of Pharmacy

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Volume 3 Issue 1

Showing 8 Articles

RESEARCH ARTICLE

  • Suspension of Sonchus arvensis L Leaves Ethanolic Extract Affects Blood Creatinine and Urea Levels in Streptozotocin-Induced Wistar Male Rats
    research article

    Suspension of Sonchus arvensis L Leaves Ethanolic Extract Affects Blood Creatinine and Urea Levels in Streptozotocin-Induced Wistar Male Rats

    Niluh Puspita Dewi, Syafika Alaydrus, Widya Ayu Lestari, Magfirah Magfirah, Indah Kurnia Utami, Nani Astria Polontalo, Muthmainah Tuldjanah

    The study focused on analyzing the secondary metabolites present in the ethanol extract of Sonchus arvensis L. leaves (SALEE) and their impact on creatinine and urea levels when administered in suspension form at different doses. Phytochemical screening of SALEE identified alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins, and tannins. In the experiment, twenty-five white male rats were divided into five groups: a healthy control group (Group I), a negative control group (Group II), and three test groups (Groups III, IV, and V) receiving SALEE at doses of 200, 300, and 400 mg/kg BW, respectively. After inducing diabetes with streptozotocin and a 21-day follow-up period, creatinine and urea levels were assessed. The results demonstrated that SALEE administration significantly reduced creatinine levels and increased urea levels. Notably, the 200 mg/kg BW dose of SALEE exhibited a consistent and long-term effect. It was observed that blood urea levels fluctuated even in healthy and negative control groups during the 21-day observation period. In the group receiving the highest dose of SALEE (400 mg/kg BW), blood urea levels increased significantly on days 14 and 21, indicating a potential increase in the rats' appetite rather than renal function failure. Overall, the findings suggest that SALEE has promising potential to regulate creatinine and urea levels in the blood of individuals with diabetes, highlighting its potential for therapeutic and supplemental use.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    14 Jan 2024
    6 pages
  • Effects of Methanolic Leaf Extract and Fractions of Irvingia Gabonensis on Hematological Parameters in Wistar Rats with Splenomegaly
    research article

    Effects of Methanolic Leaf Extract and Fractions of Irvingia Gabonensis on Hematological Parameters in Wistar Rats with Splenomegaly

    Fidelia Chikaodili Okoben, InnocentMary Ifedibaluchukwu Ejiofor, Ikechukwu Sonn Mbagwu, Daniel Lotanna Ajaghaku, Fredrick Chinedu Anowi

    Splenomegaly is a medical condition characterized by an enlargement of the spleen, an organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen, beneath the ribcage. The spleen plays various essential roles in the body, including filtering blood, removing old or damaged blood cells, and helping the immune system by producing and storing immune cells. Splenomegaly causes negative haematological effects. It is very common in Africa and Asia. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of methanol leaf extract and fractions of Irvingia gabonensis on haematological parameters in splenomegaly-induced Wistar rats. Extraction and fractionation of the plant were carried out through standard procedure using methanol, hexane, butanol and ethyl acetate. A qualitative phytochemical evaluation of the plant was done. The effects of the extract and fractions of I. gabonensis were investigated using a rat model. The presence of various phytochemicals like alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, and tannins was observed in the extract and fractions of the plant. The methanolic extract and ethylacetate fraction significantly caused the normalization of PCV, HB, and RBC post-treatment. The findings from this study suggest that I. gabonensis could be researched further for the management of splenomegaly and also the isolation of phytochemicals responsible for these effects.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    5 Jan 2024
    9 pages
  • research article

    Characterizations of Swelling Granule of Clove Leaf (Syzygium aromaticum L.) Ethanol Extract

    Ayu Wulandari, Gita Chintya, Muthmainah Tuldjanah, Rezky Yanuarty

    Cloves, scientifically known as Syzygium aromaticum L. , hold promise as a potential antiulcer remedy due to their rich composition of compounds, including high levels of phenolic compounds such as eugenol, eugenol acetate, and gallic acid. To improve bioavailability in the gastric environment, this study focuses on optimizing and evaluating a swelling granule system derived from clove leaf extract. The granules were produced using wet granulation with Carbopol, HPMC, and their combination as polymer matrices. Results indicated favorable properties in the swelling granules, with the optimal composition of 210 mg Carbopol, 36 mg PVP, and 404 mg Avicel pH 101. These granules exhibited a uniform particle size distribution, with 90.1% below 149 µm and 9.9% distributed across mesh numbers 100, 80, and 40. The formula with Carbopol polymer showed superior flow rate, compressibility, and swelling capacity compared to other formulations. The interaction between Carbopol's C=O groups and HPMC's hydroxyl groups significantly influenced parameters, especially swelling capacity. Thus, when combining polymers, potential chemical or physical reactions should be considered. The wet granulation process effectively preserved secondary metabolite levels from clove leaf. Further tests are recommended to evaluate the granulation's effectiveness as a delivery system for clove leaf extract.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    27 Jan 2024
    5 pages
  • Prevalence, Causes, and Management Strategies of Fungal Diseases in Northern Regions of Bangladesh
    research article

    Prevalence, Causes, and Management Strategies of Fungal Diseases in Northern Regions of Bangladesh

    Md. Khokon Miah Akanda, Razia Sultana, Md. Masud Rana, Md. Alamgir Hossain, S. M. Abdul Barik, Md. Rafiul Islam, Md. Nazmul Islam, G.M. Masud Parvez

    In Bangladesh, fungus-related skin diseases are highly prevalent. Until this result began, there was no research in Bangladesh to find the cause and management strategies for fungal infection, but there is still no complete research on it. This survey aimed to evaluate the incidence, etiology, and therapeutic alternatives for various fungal ailments in Bangladesh. The research was carried out in Rajshahi from January to June 2019 by the Pharmacy Department of Varendra University. A compilation of 489 patient data was obtained throughout the investigation using a semi-structured questionnaire. The participants' ages vary from three months to seventy years; 327 are male, and 162 are female. The most prevalent skin conditions among the patients are as follows: ringworm (11.25%), skin infections affecting the ear, nose, fingers, and uterus (11.04%), acne (8.19%), allergy (9.82%), dandruff (5.11%), dermatitis (9.00%), eczema (5.73%), and scabies (7.18%). Student individuals comprise 49.28% of the patients, day workers 16.56%, housewives 16.36%, and employed 14.31%. Patients are housed in 53.17 percent concrete houses, 26.5 percent huts, and 26.18% semi-structures. Patients wash their clothing with tap water at a rate of 52%, followed by tube well water at 21.27%, pond water at 20.45%, and river water at 5.52%. It is evident from this study that fungal diseases affect individuals of all ages, including men and women. An adverse finding of the research was that over forty percent of patients do not receive accurate instructions from their physicians, which raises the risk of drug resistance and further contamination.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    14 Jan 2024
    11 pages
  • Quality and Potency of Government-subsidized Antibiotics in Hospitals Across Jakarta, Indonesia
    research article

    Quality and Potency of Government-subsidized Antibiotics in Hospitals Across Jakarta, Indonesia

    Sondang Khairani, Hesty Utami Ramadaniati, Prih Sarnianto, Erna Kristin, Yusi Anggriani

    Several pharmaceutical companies have long complained that the price of medicines that win the e-catalogue tender is too low, in some cases even below the cost of production. However, it should not be a concern that only pharmaceutical products with regulation of Indonesian food and drug (BPOM) distribution licenses are eligible for the price tender, as they are of good quality. This study aims to determine the quality and potency of three antibiotic drugs based on their highest utilization (DU 90%) in pneumonia patients at two hospitals, A (ceftriaxone, azithromycin tablet) and B (ceftriaxone, levofloxacin infusion) compared to brand name. The quality of the samples was evaluated following the Indonesian Pharmacopoeia 6th Edition (FI-VI). Antibiotic potency was assessed using the Plate-Cylinder Method with K. pneumonia from human and S. pneumonia ATCC 10015 as the test bacteria evaluated following CLSI. All samples meet the criteria of FI-VI antibiotic content, weight uniformity, dissolution. Antibiotic potency all samples test S.pneumonia and K.pneumonia were sensitive but ceftriaxone test with K.pneumonia was resistance. All antibiotic tablets and injections studied met the requirements of the Indonesian Pharmacopoeia Edition 6 for active medicinal ingredient content, dosage weight uniformity, and dissolution. All drugs from hospitals (INN) have lower antibiotic potency than branded drugs. This highlight the importance of conducting microbiological testing on antibiotic preparations.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    3 Jan 2024
    8 pages
  • research article

    Enhanced Ability of Agarwood Leaves (Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.) Ointment as Wound Healing to Heal Second-Degree Burns in Rats

    Yesi Desmiaty, Ni Made Dwi Sandhiutami, Fahleni Fahleni, Agnes Griselda, Amalia Zahra Apriliana

    Agarwood leaves (Aquilaria malaccensis Lam.) contain chemical substances such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids that contribute to the healing process of burns. This study aims to evaluate the wound healing activity of spray-dried extract from agarwood leaves formulated into an ointment for second-degree burns. The method involves extracting agarwood leaves through the decoction method, followed by spray drying, and subsequent evaluation of the extract. The prepared extract was then formulated into an ointment and tested for wound healing activity on 24 white rats of the Sprague-Dawley strain, divided into four groups, each consisting of 6 rats: negative control (ointment base), positive control (Betadine®), formula 1 (agarwood leaves extract ointment with 20% extract concentration - ALO-20), and formula 2 (agarwood leaves extract ointment with 30% extract concentration - ALO-30). Second-degree burns were induced by exposing the rats' backs to ferrous metal for 3 seconds and treating them for 14 days. Observations were made by assessing changes in burn diameter and scab formation. In this study, ALO-30 demonstrated superior activity. Scab formation was faster on day 3, and the burn diameter was reduced by day 7. The results indicated that ALO-30 led to a quicker reduction in wound diameter compared to ALO-20 and the negative control. Agarwood leaves extract ointment with a concentration of 30% (ALO-30) exhibited a more effective wound healing effect than the ointment with a 20% concentration (ALO-20).

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    14 Mar 2024
    10 pages
  • Potential of Ciplukan Leaf (Physalis Angulate L.) Infusion as A Bronchodilator in Pulmonary Histopathology of Sprague Dawley White Rats
    research article

    Potential of Ciplukan Leaf (Physalis Angulate L.) Infusion as A Bronchodilator in Pulmonary Histopathology of Sprague Dawley White Rats

    Rika Sari Dewi, Kristin Grave Gracia Saragih

    Ciplukan leaves contain alkaloid compounds and exhibit pharmacological activity as bronchodilators. Bronchodilators are utilized in chronic inflammatory respiratory conditions such as asthma, involving various cell types such as mast cells, eosinophils, and epithelial cells. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of administering Ciplukan leaf infusion as a bronchodilator. A total of 24 Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups: normal control (K1), negative control (K2), positive control (K3), 200 mg/kg BW dose (K4), 400 mg/kg BW dose (K5), and 800 mg/kg BW dose (K6). On days 1 and 8, rats were sensitized with 0.35 mg OVA + 1 mg AlOH3 in 0.9% NaCl (i. p). On days 15, 17, and 19, rats were re-sensitized with inhaled OVA. From day 20 to 28, K1 and K2 received no treatment, K3 received 2 mL/day of salbutamol, and the dose groups were administered 2 mL/day of Ciplukan leaf infusion; all treatments were carried out simultaneously. On day 29, rats were dissected, and their lung organs were collected for histopathological preparation. Research findings revealed a reduction in bronchiolar epithelial thickness across groups in the following order: 495.05; 584.95; 334.69; 421.70; 482.81; 484.95 µm. The sequential lung eosinophil counts were 19; 44; 37; 23; 17; and 27, and mast cell counts were 9; 22; 13; 15; 13; and 7. Statistical analysis demonstrated significant differences at the 200 mg/kg BW dose for the parameters of bronchiolar epithelial thickness and eosinophil count, as well as significant differences in mast cell counts at the 800 mg/kg BW dose and negative control group.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    20 Mar 2024
    9 pages

REVIEW

  • Sterility of Ophthalmic Solutions as a Factor in the Evolution of Primary Packaging for Eye Drops: A Literature Review
    review

    Sterility of Ophthalmic Solutions as a Factor in the Evolution of Primary Packaging for Eye Drops: A Literature Review

    Ivan Sergeevich Ivanov, Diana Alexandrovna Akhmedova, Yulia Anatolyevna Koroleva, Denis Olegovich Shatalov

    Preservatives in eye drops, while not always necessary, can lead to undesirable effects. Developing preservative-free solutions demands special measures for sterility, utilizing multidose or monodose primary packaging. This review explores the merits and drawbacks of these packaging types. A literature search on PubMed, Google Scholar, and EMBASE until December 2023, using MESH terms, yielded 28 studies on multidose ampoules and 24 on monodose packaging. Heterogeneous data revealed advantages and disadvantages concerning patient use and manufacturing. Chronologically presenting the development of eye drop packaging, this study finds Droptainer® simple but unable to maintain sterility. Comod®, 3K®, ABAK®, Novelia®, and Ophthalmic Squeeze Dispenser show high sterility probability, with Comod® and ABAK® having a contamination risk. Novelia® excels with long-term sterility and better control. Ophthalmic Squeeze Dispenser, FDA-approved, boasts a smaller carbon footprint. Unit-dose systems preserve sterility and offer design flexibility. Proposing an alternative, blister technology maintains sterility, is convenient and safe, and holds promise for recycling. This comprehensive assessment aids in understanding the evolving landscape of eye drop packaging, emphasizing the importance of sterility, convenience, and environmental impact.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    25 Feb 2024
    11 pages

Journal Key Facts

Publishing Fee (APC)

IDR 1100000

Open Access License

CC BY 4.0

Language

English

Abstracting & Indexing
SintaCAS

Overview

Sciences of Pharmacy (SciPhar) is a peer-reviewed open-access journal of pharmacy owned and 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.

Authors from countries other than Indonesia are not charged a publication fee until further notice.

Published 4 issues a year (March, June, September and December) with a continuous publishing model — accepted articles are immediately assigned to the active issue.
Eligible Article Types: Case Report, Case Series, Clinical Trial, Editorial, Letter to Editor, Meta Analysis, Mini Review, Opinion/Perspective, Research Article, Review, Technical Note
Current Issue

Latest Articles

Recently published research articles, review papers, and technical notes from the current volume of the journal.

  • research article

    Griess Assay Evaluation of Nitric Oxide Scavenging by a Multi-Extract Emulgel for Topical Steroid Withdrawal

    Wahyu Bachtiar, Tyssa Mariyana, Nurul Hidayatri, Bheta Sari Dewi, Ayu Werawati

    Topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is an iatrogenic dermatosis following prolonged topical corticosteroid use, with limited non-steroidal alternatives. This study developed a multi-extract emulgel containing Andrographis paniculata, Tinospora cordifolia, Curcuma longa, and Piper nigrum and screened its nitric oxide (NO)-scavenging activity. Standardized ethanolic extracts were incorporated into eight emulgels (F1–F8) using a 2³ full factorial design, varying A. paniculata (3–5%), T. cordifolia (4–6%), and C. longa (4–6%) with P. nigrum fixed at 10%. Physical characterization showed homogeneous oil-in-water emulgels with pH 5.26–5.90, spreadability 6.7–6.8 cm, and viscosity 12,560–17,120 cP. IC₅₀ values for all formulations exceeded the highest tested concentration (100 µg/mL) without reaching the concentration-response curve plateau, and are reported as > 100 µg/mL compared to 18.48 µg/mL for ascorbic acid. Descriptive ranking placed F4 first, followed by F7 and F8. Exploratory factorial analysis indicated that C. longa levels and the A. paniculata × T. cordifolia interaction drove IC₅₀ variation, showing that higher extract loading did not enhance activity. Because this cell-free assay reflects only direct chemical NO scavenging, findings are strictly preliminary and descriptive. Future validation requires independent runs across an expanded concentration range capturing the full upper plateau. F4 is tentatively proposed as the lead formulation for confirmatory testing and subsequent stability, cell-based, and in vivo studies.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    1 Nov 2026
    16 pages
  • review

    Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as Delivery Systems for Plant-Derived Phytochemicals in Cancer Therapy: A Systematic Review

    Ade Abiyyatun Mahdiyyah, Mazaya Fadhila, Moh. Firman Irwanto, Ayu Rana Esadini, Wafa Wafa, Alfa Frista Arta, Ira Novita Sari

    Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) have been investigated as lipid-based delivery systems to improve the solubility, stability, bioavailability, and delivery of plant-derived phytochemicals to tumors for cancer therapy. However, the available evidence remains heterogeneous and predominantly preclinical. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the formulation strategies, physicochemical characteristics, and therapeutic applications of phytochemical-loaded SLNs in cancer therapy. The review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Original research articles in English investigating phytochemical-loaded SLNs for cancer therapy were included. Data on formulation composition, preparation methods, physicochemical properties, drug release, in vitro anticancer activity, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and in vivo antitumor efficacy were extracted. Risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE tool for animal studies and an adapted checklist for in vitro studies. Thirty one articles were included in the qualitative synthesis. Most SLNs had particle sizes in the nanoscale range, approximately 50-350 nm, with encapsulation efficiencies of 43-99% and sustained-release profiles. Encapsulation generally improved cellular uptake and in vitro cytotoxicity in several cancer models. However, evidence of improved bioavailability, active tumor targeting, and in vivo antitumor efficacy remained limited and heterogeneous. Surface modification enhanced cellular uptake or organ accumulation in some studies, but validated tumor-specific targeting was not consistently demonstrated. Overall, phytochemical-loaded SLNs demonstrate potential as delivery platforms; however, clinical translation requires standardized formulations, robust in vivo studies, comprehensive safety evaluations, and clinical trials.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    7 Nov 2026
    19 pages
  • research article

    Solid Preservative Preparation from Decolorized Ethanolic Extract of Ginggiang (Leea aequata L.): A 90-Day Subchronic Toxicity Study in Rats

    Purwaniati Purwaniati, Rahmana Emran Kartasasmita, Maria Immaculata Iwo, Muhamad Insanu

    Natural preservatives derived from medicinal plants require a thorough safety evaluation before they can be used in food. Ginggiang has traditionally been used by the Kuta indigenous community in Ciamis, West Java, Indonesia, to preserve palm sap; however, its safety profile has not been evaluated. In this study, a solid preservative preparation was developed from the decolorized ethanolic extract of ginggiang leaves (SPP-ED), and its safety profile was assessed after repeated oral administration. The study focused on subchronic oral toxicity and identified the target organs affected by repeated exposure to SPP-ED. In a 90-day experiment, both male and female Wistar rats received SPP-ED at doses of 45, 150, or 1500 mg/kg body weight per day. Satellite groups were included to evaluate recovery. Various parameters, including behavioral, hematological, biochemical, urinalysis, organ index, and histopathological evaluations, were systematically analyzed. No mortality was observed during the study. The results showed that subchronic exposure to SPP-ED had sex-specific effects: female rats experienced renal alterations, characterized by changes in urinalysis, elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels, and signs of tubular degeneration. In contrast, male rats exhibited pulmonary changes, including an increased lung-to-body weight ratio, alveolitis, and fibrosis. The D1 dose (45 mg/kg body weight/day) was the lowest dose at which potentially adverse histopathological changes were observed; however, a definitive NOAEL and LOAEL could not be established. Further studies using lower dose levels are warranted to better characterize the dose-response relationship and establish the NOAEL and LOAEL of SPP-ED.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    2 Nov 2026
    13 pages
  • research article

    Polypharmacy and Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIMs) in Older Adults with Cardiometabolic Disease: A STOPP/START Criteria-Based Analysis

    Yeni Farida, Rizki Amalia Taufany

    Potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) are a common issue in older adults. Older adults often require multiple medications to manage cardiometabolic disease. This study aimed to identify potentially inappropriate medications and potential inappropriate omissions using STOPP/START criteria in older adult patients with cardiometabolic disease. We conducted an observational analytical study using retrospective data at a secondary care teaching hospital in Sukoharjo, Central Java. We included older adult patients admitted to the inpatient wards between January and June 2022. The prescriptions were analyzed using the STOPP/START Criteria 2016. The Chi-square test analysis was performed to examine the association between the number of drugs and the occurrence of PIMs. We included 97 geriatric inpatients. All patients received at least 5 drugs during each admission, 35.06% were classified as having hyperpolypharmacy. Among the 97 patients, 36.08% had PIM prescriptions, and 29.89% had PPOs. There was a statistically significant association between the number of drugs and PIMs in older adults. Compared with patients receiving > 10 medications, those receiving 5–10 medications had lower odds of PIM use (OR 0.409, 95% CI 0.173–0.969; p = 0.040). These findings highlight high medication burden as an important marker for targeted medication review in geriatric inpatients, particularly those with cardiometabolic multimorbidity.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    31 Oct 2026
    10 pages
  • research article

    Comparison of PEG 4000 and 6000 in Solid Dispersion of Tadalafil Prepared by Melting Method

    Moh. Firman Irwanto, Arif Budi Setianto, Ade Abiyyatun Mahdiyyah, Maratun Shoaliha, Amzal Mortin Andas, Ashar Prima, Indah Puspitasari, Andi Tenri Nurwahidah, Fauziah H Wada

    Tadalafil is a BCS Class II drug with very low aqueous solubility, limiting its oral bioavailability. Solid dispersion technology using polyethylene glycol (PEG) is an effective strategy to enhance solubility. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of PEG 4000 and PEG 6000 as carriers in amorphous solid dispersions of tadalafil prepared by the melting method. Solid dispersions were prepared at weight ratios (tadalafil:polymer) of 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:4 for both PEG 4000 and PEG 6000 using the fusion technique (70 °C). The formulations were characterized by Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Solubility studies were conducted in distilled water and phosphate buffer (pH 6.8) and analyzed via a validated HPLC method. Solid dispersions with PEG 6000 at a 1:3 ratio (F7) exhibited the highest solubility enhancement, reaching 16.08 ± 0.6 µg/mL in water. For PEG 4000, the 1:2 ratio (F2) was optimal (8.20 ± 1.3 µg/mL). PXRD and DSC analyses confirmed the transformation of crystalline tadalafil into an amorphous state within the polymer matrix. FTIR spectra indicated shifts in N-H and C=O bands, suggesting hydrogen bond formation. In conclusion, PEG 6000 produced a superior solid dispersion for tadalafil compared to PEG 4000. The primary mechanism is the formation of an amorphous system stabilized by hydrogen bonding. This study provides a formulation basis for improving the oral delivery of tadalafil.

    Sciences of Pharmacy

    2 Nov 2026
    9 pages