
Sciences of Pharmacy
Volume 4 Issue 2
Showing 6 Articles
RESEARCH ARTICLE
- research article
Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities of Pandanus amaryllifolius Leaf Extract, Fractions, and Isolate and Their Role in Anti-Dandruff Shampoo Optimization
Rina Wijayanti, Windi Susmayanti, Dias Feni Meliana, Afifah Husnun Fauziyah, Aprilia Mega Anjeline, Devyra Yunika Mutiara Sari Suwarto Putri, Fadhia Tafrichatul Ulya
Pandan leaves (Pandanus amaryllifolius Roxb.) possess various biological activities due to their secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, saponins, and triterpenoids/steroids. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and antifungal activities of pandan leaf extracts, fractions, and isolates against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pityrosporum ovale, as well as to optimize surfactants in shampoo formulations. The experimental design used a post-test-only control group. Samples were processed through maceration, followed by fractionation and isolation using the KLT-P method. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were assessed using the agar well diffusion method. The most effective antibacterial activity against E. coli was observed in the n-hexane isolate at 700 ppm, with an inhibition zone of 19.6 mm, classified as strong. For S. aureus, the 100% water fraction produced an inhibition zone of 9.96 mm, classified as weak. The ethanol extract showed antifungal activity against P. ovale with an inhibition zone of 6.29 mm, categorized as moderate. Shampoo formulation optimization using sodium lauryl sulfate and cocamide DEA resulted in an ideal ratio of 0.235 to 0.764. This combination produced a shampoo with acceptable physical characteristics, including a pH of 5.71, foam height of 2.56 cm, and viscosity of 899.9 cps, all of which met the standard requirements.
Sciences of Pharmacy
8 Apr 202515 pages - research article
Evaluation of Medication Errors in Transcribing and Dispensing Processes of Outpatient E-Prescriptions at Persahabatan General Hospital
Sondang Khairani, Fitri Nurhayati, Mala Kurnia, Reise Manninda, Lusiana Ariani
Persahabatan General Hospital provides a variety of healthcare services, including outpatient care. Medication errors are errors in the prescribing, dispensing, and administration process that can be considered risk factors for patients. This study aims to evaluate medication errors in the transcription and dispensing phases of outpatient e-prescriptions at Persahabatan General Hospital during the period January - February 2024. This research is a descriptive observational study with a cross-sectional design. Data were collected through prospective observation and analyzed descriptively to determine the percentage of medication errors. Of the 363 e-prescriptions observed, the results showed no errors in the transcribing phase. However, in the dispensing phase, there were 50 (6.07%) incidents of incorrect preparing quantity of medicine, 8 (0.97%) incidents of incorrect medicine medical equipment, and 7 (0.85%) incidents of incorrect dosage. These findings suggest that although the implementation of e-prescribing is effective in reducing errors at the transcription phase, special attention must be paid to the dispensing phase to reduce the number of errors. There is a correlation between polypharmacy and medication errors in the dispensing phase, p-value < 0.001. All of these errors are resolved before the medication is administered to the patient.
Sciences of Pharmacy
10 Apr 20256 pages - research article
Characterization of Lactococcus garvieae Isolated from Wadi Papuyu (Anabas testudineus Bloch) Fermentation of Indonesian Origin as a Probiotic Candidate
Yulistia Budianti Soemarie, Rizki Rahmadi Pratama, Tiana Milanda, Melisa Intan Barliana
Lactococcus garvieae was isolated from the traditional fermented food Wadi Papuyu (Anabas testudineus Bloch) and characterized for its potential as a probiotic candidate. Growth assays demonstrated that L. garvieae could proliferate in MRS medium, reaching cell counts exceeding 107 CFU/mL after 72 h of anaerobic incubation. The isolate exhibited optimal growth at both 30 °C and 37 °C, as indicated by significant increases in absorbance at these temperatures. However, in the bile salt tolerance test using 0.5% (w/v) bile salts, L. garvieae showed a marked decline in growth, with absorbance values decreasing substantially after 24 and 48 h, indicating insufficient bile tolerance. The autoaggregation assay revealed values below 10%, suggesting limited autoaggregation capability and reduced potential for colonization in the gastrointestinal tract. In contrast, the co-aggregation assay showed that L. garvieae was able to coaggregate with pathogenic bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Shigella spp., with co-aggregation percentages exceeding 40% after 5 h. Antimicrobial activity tests demonstrated that L. garvieae produced strong inhibition zones (diameters >10–20 mm and > 20 mm) against Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria. These findings indicate that while L. garvieae exhibits promising antimicrobial activity and co-aggregation ability, its limited bile salt tolerance and autoaggregation capacity are significant constraints in its development as a probiotic candidate.
Sciences of Pharmacy
19 May 20257 pages - research article
Evaluation of Antibiotic Use in Inpatient and Outpatient Diabetic Ulcer Patients at a Government Hospital in Bandung
Entris Sutrisno, Ani Anggriani, Jajang Japar Sodik
Diabetic foot ulcers are caused by neuropathy and/or peripheral arterial disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. These infections are commonly treated with empirical antibiotics. However, excessive or inappropriate antibiotic use may lead to resistance and poor treatment outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate antibiotic prescribing patterns, rationality, and potential drug interactions in diabetic ulcer patients at a government hospital in Bandung from January to December 2023. A retrospective observational design was used to analyze the medical records of 63 patients. The most frequently used single antibiotics were ceftriaxone (51%), cefixime (20%), and ceftizoxime (17%), while the most common combination therapy was ceftizoxime + metronidazole (24%). Evaluation of antibiotic rationality showed 100% appropriate indication, 90.48% appropriate drug selection, and 98.41% appropriate dosage. Despite this, 33.33% of prescriptions had potential drug interactions with commonly co-prescribed medications. These findings indicate generally rational antibiotic use with areas for improvement in drug selection and interaction management. The study highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and rational prescribing to prevent antimicrobial resistance and ensure patient safety.
Sciences of Pharmacy
12 May 20258 pages
research articleNano Liposomal Curcumin as an Adjuvant: Enhancing Cisplatin Anticancer Effects in HeLa Cells
Subandi Subandi, Fredlina Rossa Balindra, Aura Bella Gizta, Husnul Khotimah, Kusworini Handono
Cervical cancer, mainly driven by oncogenic HPV infections, remains a global health burden. Cisplatin is standard chemotherapy for advanced cases but is limited by toxicity. Nano liposomal curcumin, with improved bioavailability, may enhance cisplatin’s efficacy. This study investigated the combination’s effect on HeLa cells by analyzing Cyclin E1 and Bcl-2 expression. Nano liposomal curcumin was synthesized using thin-film hydration, yielding stable 32 nm nanoparticles. HeLa cells were divided into control and treatment groups, and varying doses of nano liposomal curcumin with cisplatin were received. Flow cytometry revealed significant reductions in Cyclin E1 (from 18.62 ± 1.45 to 5.79 ± 0.47) and Bcl-2 (from 32.56 ± 0.82 to 28.19 ± 0.30) at the highest dose (p < 0.05). Cell viability decreased to 9% with cisplatin alone and 1% with the combination. These results indicate that nano liposomal curcumin enhances cisplatin’s antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects, supporting its potential as an adjuvant to lower cisplatin doses while maintaining efficacy. Further research involving additional molecular markers, in vivo models, and clinical trials is needed to optimize dosing, confirm safety, and evaluate therapeutic potential.
Sciences of Pharmacy
16 Jun 20257 pages
REVIEW
reviewEffect of Gene Polymorphisms on Oral Antidiabetic Drug Response in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Nur Rahmi Hidayati, Dyah Aryani Perwitasari, Imaniar Noor Faridah, Rinto Susilo
Diabetes mellitus is currently one of the global health threats. The prevalence and incidence of this disease continue to increase, both in industrialised and developing countries, including Indonesia. There are different types of DM marker gene polymorphisms in each racial group. These genetic variations contribute to the response of oral antidiabetic drugs. This article aims to conduct a narrative review of the influence of gene polymorphisms on oral antidiabetic drug response in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Article searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Wiley published from 2014 to 2024. From the screening, 30 articles met the criteria. The articles reported various gene polymorphisms associated with the efficacy of oral antidiabetic therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with certain gene variations, there was no significant decrease in HbA1c values after taking medication. Gene polymorphisms may affect the pharmacokinetics of oral antidiabetics and therapeutic response in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Sciences of Pharmacy
12 May 20259 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.
- 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 - review
Nanochemistry in Vaccine Delivery: Lipid Nanoparticles, Polymers, and Hybrid Systems
Courage Chandipwisa, Agness Shimilimo, Tendai Pride Zenda, Harrison Banda
Conventional vaccines face challenges in antigen stability, delivery efficiency, and scalability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Nanochemistry offers innovative approaches through lipid nanoparticles, polymeric carriers, and hybrid systems. This review evaluates these platforms using criteria such as physicochemical properties, immunological outcomes, translational feasibility, and One Health relevance. A narrative literature review was conducted across major databases between 2015 and 2025. Studies were screened by title and abstract, excluded if not directly relevant to vaccine delivery, and weighted according to design, with clinical trials prioritized over in vitro or modeling studies. Reference lists of key papers were also examined to ensure comprehensive coverage. Lipid nanoparticles supported mRNA delivery in licensed COVID-19 vaccines, achieving strong immune responses but with variability across populations and reported adverse events including myocarditis and anaphylaxis. Polymeric nanoparticles such as PLGA and chitosan enabled controlled antigen release, though cost-effectiveness remains constrained by manufacturing and scalability challenges. Hybrid lipid-polymer systems demonstrated enhanced stability and multi-antigen presentation, with current evidence largely limited to preclinical studies. One Health implications are defined as the potential of nanochemistry to contribute to zoonotic disease prevention, food safety, and cross-species vaccine design, requiring clearer frameworks for integration. In conclusion, nanochemistry-based vaccine platforms show promise for advancing immunization strategies, but unresolved issues in safety evaluation, regulatory harmonization, and equitable access highlight the need for cautious interpretation and further interdisciplinary collaboration.
Sciences of Pharmacy
19 Jan 202612 pages - letter to editor
Inappropriate Use of Parenteral Analgesics for Mild Pain and Uncomplicated Fever in the Emergency Department: Findings from an Internal Audit
Rissa Maharani Dewi, Abdur Rosyid, Willi Wahyu Timur, Nindita Sari Nastiti, Dwi Monika Ningrum, Dimas Widiyanto
Inappropriate prescribing of parenteral analgesics in patients with mild pain or uncomplicated fever remains a relevant concern in emergency care. This study reports findings from a retrospective internal audit conducted in the emergency department of a private hospital in Banjarbaru, Indonesia, to evaluate the appropriateness of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Medical records of 384 emergency department visits were reviewed, including data on pain intensity using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), clinical indications, route of administration, and immediate adverse reactions. Inappropriate use was defined as administration of parenteral NSAIDs in patients with mild pain (NRS 1–3) or uncomplicated fever when oral therapy was feasible, based on Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM) guidelines. The audit identified inappropriate parenteral NSAID use in 7 patients (3.6%). These cases were associated with mild, immediate adverse effects such as nausea and dizziness. Although the proportion was small, the findings indicate potentially avoidable use of injectable analgesics and highlight the need for improved adherence to guideline-based analgesic selection. Reinforcement of routine pain assessment, clinician re-education, and periodic prescribing audits are recommended to support rational and patient-centered analgesic use in emergency settings.
Sciences of Pharmacy
12 Feb 20263 pages


