Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
Olayemi, O., Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria; Salihu, B., Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria; Allagh, S., Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria
Objective: this study is aimed at investigating the binding ability/properties of Spondias purpurea (also known as plum) bark gum in metronidazole 200mg tablet formulation. Methods: characterization of the gum was carried out according to the B.P official procedure for percentage yield, organoleptic properties, morphology, loss on drying and particle size determination. The wet granulation method of massing and screening was employed in the formulation of the granules. The gum was used at a 1, 2, 5 and 10%w/w concentrations while pharmaceutical grade gelatin was used as a standard. The granules were evaluated for particle size distribution, moisture content, flow rate, bulk and tapped density, Hausner's ratio and Carr's indices. The granules were compressed at 4.0 metric tonnes (MT) with the target weight of each tablet being 500mg. The tablets were evaluated for uniformity in weight, tablet thickness, crushing strength, friability, disintegration time and dissolution profile. Results: the gum was observed to be polygonal in shape, crystalline in texture with a neutral pH. There was a linear correlation between concentration and viscosity. The granules possessed good flow properties as indicated by the low angle of repose, Hausner's ratio and Carr's index. Tablet disintegration and dissolution time were observed to increase with increase in gum concentration while friability decreased. Spondias purpurea gum produced tablets with better mechanical strength, longer disintegration time and faster onset of drug release at low concentrations. Conclusion: It can be inferred therefore that Spondias purpurea bark gum has binding abilities which can be employed especially when high mechanical strength and fast to moderate release is desired.
