Sciences of Pharmacy

Mohamad Aprianto Paneo, Teti Sutriyati Tuloli, Moh Rivai Nakoe, Nikmasari Pakaya, Nurain Thomas, Rifka Anggraini Anggai, Multiani S. Latif

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Made Anindya Ayu Dyavaprathivi, Yustrida Maisa, Ni Made Dwi Sandhiutami

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Yani Mulyani, Marita Kaniawati, Widhya Aligita, Eka Rahmat Nugraha

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Novi Febrianti, Lina Widyastuti, Septiana Saputri, Lalu Muhammad Irham

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Annisa Maharani Wibowo, Yasmi Purnamasari Kuntana, Tanendri Arrizqiani, Ratu Safitri

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Nadhila Hasna Salsabila, Yasmi Purnamasari Kuntana, Tanendri Arrizqiyani, Ratu Safitri

Iron overload is linked to progressive impairment of organ function, with the liver being the primary site of deposition due to the lack of a physiological route for iron elimination. The maintenance of systemic iron balance depends on key regulatory proteins, including hepcidin (Hamp gene), ferritin light chain (Ftl gene), and transferrin receptor 1 (Tfr1 gene). This study tested the hypothesis that Deferiprone (DFP), an oral iron chelator, modulates the hepatic expression of Hamp, Ftl, and Tfr1 genes in an iron-overloaded rat model. Eighteen male Wistar rats (150-200 g) were randomly assigned into three groups: Normal (N), Negative Control (NC; induced with Iron Dextran), and Treatment (T; Iron Dextran + DFP). Iron overload was induced via intravenous injection of Iron Dextran (120 mg/kg BW) over 15 days at 3-day intervals, while DFP was administered orally (100 mg/kg BW) in three divided doses for 28 consecutive days. Gene expression was assessed using RT-PCR, and relative quantification was performed using the Livak method. The iron-overloaded rats showed marked upregulation of Hamp and Ftl and downregulation of Tfr1. Administration of DFP significantly reversed these alterations, decreasing Hamp and Ftl levels while restoring Tfr1 expression to levels comparable to normal controls. These results highlight the potential role of DFP in modulating hepatic iron-regulatory genes under iron overload conditions.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Asriana Sultan, Rinaldi Rinaldi, Sri Sulistiana Sulaiman, Nuur Aanisah, Akhmad Khumaidi, Zulhaerana Bahar, Armini Syamsidi

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Adi Yugatama, Anas Muti'ah Syahrul Azizah, Syaiful Choiri, Ya-lin Huang

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 supersaturation degree, precipitation rate, and supersaturation profile. 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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Steven Victoria Halim, Stefany Marcellia Kumala, Fatichatus Sharifah, Eko Setiawan, Antonius Adji Prayitno Setiadi

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Sofi Nurmay Stiani, Astri Selviani, Farahdina Chairani, Yusransyah Yusransyah, Baha Udin

Wound healing is a complex biological process involving inflammation, proliferation, and tissue remodeling. Delayed healing increases the risk of infection and other complications. Ambon banana stem (Musa acuminata) contains flavonoids, polyphenols, and tannins that support tissue regeneration, while apigenin exhibits anti-inflammatory and pro-regenerative activities. The combination of these two agents is expected to enhance wound repair. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a gel containing Ambon banana stem powder and apigenin in promoting wound healing in Sprague Dawley rats. A linear incision wound (1.5 cm × 2 mm) was created on the dorsal skin of anesthetized rats. Twenty-four male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into six groups (n = 4): untreated control (F0), negative control (gel base), positive control (Bioplacenton®), and three test formulations (F1: 5% banana stem + 10% apigenin; F2: 7.5% + 7.5%; F3: 10% + 5%). Wound length was measured daily for eight days using a digital caliper, and the percentage of wound closure was calculated. All combination gels significantly accelerated wound contraction compared with the negative control (p < 0.001). Formula F3 demonstrated the fastest healing, achieving complete closure on day 5 (1.50 ± 0.00 cm to 0.00 ± 0.00 cm), whereas the positive control reached 87.8 ± 0.15% closure by day 8. No significant differences were observed among the three test formulations. The accelerated healing is attributed to the synergistic effects of banana stem phytochemicals and apigenin. Overall, the combination gel effectively promotes wound healing and shows potential as a natural-based topical therapeutic.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Indah Woro Utami, Sapri Sapri, Nishia Waya Meray, As'ari As'ari

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Sulistiorini Indriaty, Deni Firmansyah, Mima Eliestya Utami, Nina Karlina, Ine Suharyani, Hilal Haidar, Amanda Safitri, Elis Setiawati

Centella asiatica (L. ) Urban contains flavonoids and triterpenoids with strong antioxidant activity; however, its topical bioavailability is limited by poor solubility. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate liposomal gel systems containing a 70% ethanol extract of C. asiatica to enhance dermal penetration while preserving antioxidant activity. The extract was incorporated into liposomes using a lecithin–cholesterol ratio of 9: 1 and formulated into gels at concentrations of 0.3% (FG1) and 0.5% (FG2). Physicochemical characterization showed mean particle sizes of 119.8 ± 7.21 nm (FG1) and 101.3 ± 6.55 nm (FG2), with polydispersity index values of 0.410 and 0.306, respectively, indicating acceptable vesicle homogeneity across three independent replicates (n = 3). The formulations were physically stable for two weeks at 4 °C but exhibited instability at elevated temperatures. Antioxidant activity evaluated using the DPPH assay yielded IC₅₀ values of 13.87 ± 0.02 µg/mL for FG1 and 13.97 ± 0.06 µg/mL for FG2, which were not significantly different (p > 0.05) from vitamin C (9.16 ± 0.06 µg/mL), indicating preservation of radical-scavenging capacity. In vitro permeation studies using Franz diffusion cells demonstrated cumulative quercetin penetration of 280.86 ± 1.12 µg/cm² for FG1 and 314.40 ± 0.93 µg/cm² for FG2 over 4 h, with FG2 showing significantly higher flux (p < 0.05). Release kinetics followed a zero-order model (R² = 0.9881–0.9914), suggesting controlled release behavior. Overall, liposomal gel formulations show potential for improving topical delivery of C. asiatica without overstating long-term stability or therapeutic superiority.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Kharisma Jayak Pratama, Niken Luthfiyanti

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with treatment often involving conventional therapies such as chemotherapy. Although effective, chemotherapy is often accompanied by significant side effects and reduces patients' quality of life. Targeted therapy, which targets specific molecular mechanisms in cancer cells, offers the potential to address these issues with higher efficacy and fewer side effects. This study aims to compare the quality of life of breast cancer patients receiving targeted therapy with chemotherapy. The study design used a comparative cross-sectional design involving 60 patients (30 receiving targeted therapy, 30 receiving chemotherapy) selected via consecutive sampling at RSUD Moewardi in Surakarta (January–June 2025). Data were collected using the validated Indonesian version of the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire. Statistical analysis included parametric t-tests and non-parametric Mann-Whitney U tests. The study results showed that the targeted therapy group had better role functioning (p = 0.047.95% CI=0.044-0.053) and significantly lower pain (p= 0.001.95% CI=0.000-0.002) and nausea (p = 0.019.95% CI=0.016-0.021) symptoms compared to chemotherapy. Global health status did not differ significantly (p= 0.545.95% CI=0.536-0.556). Age (p = 0.012.95% CI=0.08-0.012) and stadium (p = 0.001.95% CI=0.001-0.003) significantly influenced global QoL. Targeted therapy provided advantages in functional aspects and specific symptoms, although not in global QoL. A key study limitation is its cross-sectional design, which prevents the establishment of causal relationships between the type of therapy and quality of life outcomes.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Sondang Khairani, Reise Manninda, Lusiana Ariani, Benni Iskandar, Nabila Nur Hidayati

Polypharmacy may increase the risk of drug interactions affecting toxicity and therapeutic efficacy in pneumonia patients. This study aimed to analyse evaluation of pneumonia management, polypharmacy, relationship between polypharmacy and occurrence of drug-drug interactions, and relationship between drug-drug interactions and length of hospital stay of pneumonia patients. The study design used a quantitative descriptive approach with cross-sectional and retrospective data collection and a total sample of 113 samples that met the criteria. Analyses were performed using Spearman's rho correlation test to assess the association of polypharmacy with drug interactions, and the association of drug interactions with length of hospital stay. Medication accuracy was measured using PDPI (The Indonesian Lung Doctors Assosiaciation) guidelines, drug interactions using drugs. com and/or Medscape. com. Results showed 59.29% of patients were female, with the majority aged over 65 (55.65%). Most patients (91.15%) paid with BPJS, 62.61% were hospitalised for 1-5 days and 81.74% had comorbidities. Treatment accuracy in this study was 49.56%. 106 drug interactions were identified in a total of 226 cases. 66% of the interactions were pharmacodynamic with moderate severity (79%), such as the interaction between combivent and ondansetron. Mild pharmacokinetic interactions were common, especially between ranitidine and paracetamol (22 cases). There is a correlation between polypharmacy and drug interactions with a p-value 0.000 and there is a correlation between the number of drug interactions and length of hospitalisation with p-value 0.000. Conclusion of this study is polypharmacy increases the risk of drug interactions and affects the length of hospital stay in pneumonia patients.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Reza Pratama, Wempi Budiana, Diki Zaelani, Aiyi Asnawi

Bay leaf (Syzygium polyanthum), cherry leaf (Muntingia calabura), and green betel leaf (Piper betle) contain phenolic and flavonoid compounds with antioxidant potential, but their utilization is limited by physicochemical instability. This study aimed to develop microcapsules containing a combined extract of these three leaves and to evaluate their physicochemical properties and in vitro antioxidant activity as an initial formulation feasibility study. Each extract was prepared by maceration using 96% ethanol, yielding 11.42–15.86%, and combined in a 1:1:1 (w/w/w) ratio prior to microencapsulation. Microcapsules were produced using a fluidized bed dryer with lactose as the core material and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the coating polymer. Physicochemical characterization included moisture content, flow rate, angle of repose, compressibility index, dissolution time, particle size, and surface morphology. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and CUPRAC assays, with IC₅₀ values calculated from triplicate measurements. The coating process increased mean particle size from 636.2 µm to 728.0 µm and prolonged dissolution time from 2.14 to 3.55 minutes, indicating coating layer formation. Among the individual extracts, cherry leaf extract showed the strongest antioxidant activity. The microcapsules exhibited antioxidant activity within the same order of magnitude as the combined extract under initial, non-stressed testing conditions. These results demonstrate the feasibility of formulating combined plant extracts into microcapsules with acceptable physical properties, while further stability and comparative studies are required to support antioxidant preservation and potential applications.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Entris Sutrisno, Marita Kaniawati, Ilmi Intan Maharani, Jajang Japar Sodik

Insulin therapy is essential for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), particularly in patients who fail to achieve glycemic targets with oral antidiabetic agents. Long-acting insulin is primarily used to control basal glucose levels, while rapid-acting insulin targets postprandial hyperglycemia. However, comparative real-world evidence regarding their effectiveness on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose (FBG) remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the effectiveness of long-acting and rapid-acting insulin in improving HbA1c and FBG levels among patients with T2DM. A retrospective before–and–after observational study was conducted involving 122 T2DM patients treated at the outpatient unit of Majalaya Regional General Hospital between January and December 2024. Patients received either long-acting insulin (e.g., insulin glargine) or rapid-acting insulin (e.g., insulin lispro and insulin aspart) as monotherapy. Changes in HbA1c and FBG before and after therapy were analyzed using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Clinical effectiveness was defined according to American Diabetes Association criteria as a reduction of ≥1% in HbA1c or ≥30 mg/dL in FBG. Insulin therapy significantly reduced HbA1c (−7.77 ± 3.09, p < 0.001) and FBG levels (Z = −5.53, p < 0.001). Based on ADA criteria, 90.3% of patients achieved an effective reduction in HbA1c, while 43.5% achieved an effective reduction in FBG. Insulin lispro and insulin glargine showed the highest HbA1c-based effectiveness (100%), whereas FBG-based effectiveness varied across formulations. Insulin therapy significantly improves long-term and short-term glycemic control in T2DM patients, with insulin lispro and insulin glargine demonstrating the most consistent effectiveness.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Satyajit Pandurang Kulkarni, Pritam Chugule, Pallavi Satyajit Kulkarni

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy

Tri Diana Puspita Rini, Savinatunnajah Savinatunnajah, Eka Rosa Yustina, Gisela Amaliah Putri Ramadhany, Putri Aprillia Shafara, Oliffia Rahma

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.

Sciences of Pharmacy