MOSP - Macao Scientific Publishers

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Antiplasmodial activity of various parts ofPhyllanthus niruri according to its geographical distribution

P. Njomnang Soh, J. T. Banzouzi, H. Mangombo, M. Lusakibanza, F. O. Bulubulu, L. Tona, A. N. Diamuini, S. N. Luyindula and Françoise Benoit-Vical, *

Abstract: Extracts of Phyllanthus niruri L., collected from three different areas in the Congo (Kisantu, Kimwenza and University of Kinshasa), used for malaria treatment were tested in vitro in order to evaluate their antiplasmodial properties. Whereas the whole plant is traditionally used, aqueous extracts of the various parts of the P. niruri plant (stems, leaves and roots) tested on the chloroquine- resistant strain FcM29- Cameroon showed that only the leaves and the stems presented real in vitro antiplasmodial activity without any cytotoxicity. This information is particularly important because the leaves are affordable and their use is less damaging to plant stocks.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Ethno-pharmacology, Plasmodium falciparum, harvest areas, parts of plant.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Design, Synthesis and biological evaluation of novel acridine-polyamine conjugates against prostate cancer

Hildebert B. Maurice*, Rodger Phillips and Nazira Karodia

Abstract: Prostate cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in men, aged 85 and over. Androgen receptor, a single polypeptide with three functional domains is very important during initiation and progression of the disease. In this study, a DNA intercalating agent, acridine is linked to the testosterone via a polyamine linker to obtain a compound with trifunctional characteristics, where the acridine intercalates the DNA, the polyamine linker binds the phosphoryl groups of the DNA backbone and the testosterone moiety binds into the AR ligand binding domain, with which its DNA binding domain is bound already to the DNA. This trifunctional compound and related derivatives have been synthesized and tested against androgen dependent- and androgen independent- prostate cancer cell lines and they have demonstrated to be cytotoxic at the micromolar concentrations.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Polyamines, Testosterone, Prostate cancer, Acridine, Synthesis.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Evaluation of anti arthritic potential of Hybanthus enneaspermus

S. Tripathy*, S. P. Sahoo, D. Pradhan, S. Sahoo and D. K. Satapathy

Abstract: The effect of alcoholic and aqueous extracts of the whole plant of Hybanthus enneaspermus Muell (Violaceae) on freund’s adjuvant induced arthritis was evaluated. The percentage of yield was found to be 12.8 and 10.6% for alcoholic and aqueous extracts respectively. Both the extracts significantly (p < 0.001) decrease the paw thickness at the end of 30 days treatment. Though in acute phase inflammation both of them show the same potency in chronic phase alcoholic extract exhibit more potency than the aqueous extracts. At the end of the studies the alcoholic extract shows more pronounce effect (59.4%) as comparable to aqueous extract (57.4%). The phytochemical analysis revels the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, carbohydrates and tannins in the extracts. The increase in body weight was observed in tested animals as comparable to the control. This result support the folkore use of this plant against the inflammmatory conditions like arthritis.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Hybanthus enneaspermus, adjuvant induced arthritis, whole plant, acute and chronic phase inflammation, body weight.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Acute and sub-acute toxicological evaluation of the methanolic stem bark extract of Crossopteryx febrifuga in rats

O. A. Salawu, B. A. Chindo, A. Y. Tijani*, I. C. Obidike, T. A. Salawu and A. James Akingbasote

Abstract: Crossopteryx febrifuga (Afzel.) Benth. (Rubiaceae) widely used in Northern Nigeria for management of trypanosomiasis, malaria and pain, has been previously shown to possess analgesic, anti-pyretic and anti-plasmodial effects. In the present study, acute and sub-acute toxicity studies of the methanolic stem bark extract of C. febrifuga were carried out in rats. Using modified lorkes (1983) method. In the sub acute toxicity study, 4 groups of 5 rats per group were used. Group 1 rats (control) received normal 10 ml normal saline/kg body weight while rats in groups 2, 3 and 4 were given daily doses of 250,500 and 1000 mg extract/kg body weight for 28 days. The effect of the extracts on feed intake, water intake and body weight changes, haematological and biochemical parameters as well as histological studies of vital organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, brain, spleen and gonads) were assessed. Treatment related mortality was observed in the rats at a dose of 4000 mg/kg orally and 600 mg/kg intraperitoneally in the acute toxicity study. The oral and the intraperitoneal median lethal dose (LD50) values of the extract were calculated to be 2828.48 and 471.17 mg/kg body weight respectively. The extract at 500 and 1000 mg extractkg body weight doses produced significant (P < 0.05) decrease in fluid and feed intake, as well as body weight. The haematological parameters were normal except a significant (P < 0.05) increase in platelet counts observed at all dose levels used. At 1000 mg extract/ kg body weight dose, the extract exerted a significant (P < 0.05) decrease that lies within the normal range values of serum aspartate, alanine transaminase and creatinine levels for this animal species. Histological findings indicated possible toxicity in the Liver, Lungs, Kidney, Testes and Uterus At 1000 mg/kg. These results suggest that oral administration of C. Febrifuga may not produce severe toxic effects at doses lower than 500mg extract/kg body weight.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Crossopteryx febrifuga, sub-acute toxicity, haematology, biochemical and histopathology.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

In vitro antiviral activities under cytotoxic doses against herpes simples type-1 and parainfluensa-3 viruses of Cicer arietinum L. (Chickpea)

Asuman Kan, Berrin Özçelik* and Murat Kartal

Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluation antiviral activities of the extracts from the seed, fruit skin and aerial parts of ten registered varieties Cicer arietinum (Chickpea) against Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and Parainfluenza-3 (PI-3) viruses. Madin-Darby Bovine Kidney and Vero cell lines were employed for antiviral assessment of the Cicer arientinum L. extracts, in which acyclovir for HSV-1 and oseltamivir for PI-3 were tested as reference drugs. This is the first report showing that C. arietinum seed extracts of Cse-5 possesses significant antiviral activity both of DNA (32 - 4 µg ml-1) and RNA (32 - 16 µg ml-1) viruses compared to the fruit skin and aerial part extracts as well as the controls. Besides, the extracts of fruit skin (Cfs-4) and aerial parts (Cap-5) showed remarkable activity against DNA viruses at 32 - 1 µg ml-1.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral activity, Cicer arietinum, chickpea.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Rapid and sensitive fluorometric analysis of novel galactosylated cationic liposome interaction with siRNA

Shantal Dorasamy, Moganavelli Singh and Mario Ariatti*

Abstract: RNA interference (RNAi) is being harnessed for application in the gene knockdown approach to the treatment of disease conditions. Targeted delivery of small interfering RNA (siRNA) is however an important consideration for application of this technology. We report here on the preparation of two new hepatocyte-directed liposomes designed for this purpose, containing the cholesteryl cytofectins 3 [N-(N’, N’-dimethylaminopropane)-carbamoyl] cholesterol (Chol-T) and 3 [N-(N’, N’, N’-trimethylammonium propane)-carbamoyl] cholesterol iodide (Chol-Q). Further we describe a simple yet sensitive fluorometric assay based on the displacement of siRNA-bound SYBR Green, to monitor the association of the duplex RNA with cationic liposomes under the conditions of high dilution encountered in transfection experiments.[...] Read More.

Keywords: siRNA, cationic liposomes, SYBR green, displacement assay.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effects of indigenous medicinal plants of Bangladesh on blood glucose level and neuropathic pain in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

Kazi Rafiq, *, Shamshad J. Sherajee, Akira Nishiyama, M. A. Sufiun and Mahbub Mostofa

Abstract: We investigated the effect of freshly prepared aqueous extracts of Psidium guajava, Momordica charantia, Coccinia indica leaves and their combination on blood glucose level and neuropathic pain in hyperglycemic rats. Streptozotocin (STZ; 65 mg/kg, Iv) was injected to albino rats to induce diabetes. Oral administration of freshly prepared aqueous extracts of each of the leaves and their combination were given to STZ-induced diabetic rats until 8 weeks after the STZ injection at a dosage of 500 mg/kg bwt/day. Oral glucose tolerance test to follow the changes in blood glucose and von Frey test to evaluate the tactile allodynia were performed to investigate the antidiabetic effects. Treatment with these freshly prepared leaf aqueous extracts significantly reduced blood glucose in diabetic rats (p < 0.001). Blood glucose lowering effect of the combination treatment was significantly greater than individual treatments (p < 0.01). Oral glucose tolerance test also showed the improvement of glucose tolerance by each extracts (p < 0.001). These effects were significantly greater in the combination treatment group over the individual treatment groups (p < 0.01) . STZ- induced loss of body weight was attenuated by the individual and their combination treatment (p < 0.02). Diabetic rats developed stable tactile allodynia measured by von Frey test. Treatment with these freshly prepared leaf aqueous extracts significantly improved tactile allodynia in diabetic rats (p < 0.01) . Effect of the combination treatment on tactile allodynia was also significantly greater than individual treatments (p < 0.05). These data suggest beneficial effect of freshly prepared aqueous extracts of P. guajava, M. charantia and C. indica leaves on hyperglycemic and neuropathic pain. Their combination therapy works better against hyperglycemia and neuropathy of STZ-induced diabetes rats. Therefore, the use of these plants as antidiabetics in folkloric medicine is justified.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Psidium guajava, Momordica charantia, Coccinia indica, hyperglycemia, neuropathic pain, STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Stability- indicating HPLC method for the determination of efavirenz in bulk drug and in pharmaceutical dosage form

B. Udaykumar Rao and Anna Pratima Nikalje*

Abstract: A rapid and accurate isocratic HPLC method was developed and validated for the assay of Efavirenz (EFA) in bulk and pharmaceutical dosage forms. The chromatographic conditions comprise of a Novapak phenyl column. A mixture of phosphate buffer and Acetonitrile was used as mobile phase. Quantitation was achieved by UV detection at 247 nm. A linear response (r2 0.999) was observed in the range of 0.05 - 0.15 mg/mL. The method was validated for accuracy and precision. The proposed method can be used for quality control assay of EFA in bulk and in finished dosage form and for the stability studies as the method separates EFA from its degradation products and excipients.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Efavirenz, stability indicating HPLC, dosage form, UV detection.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of aqueous root extract of Cassia sieberiana D. C. (Caesalpiniaceae)

Guata Yoro Sy*, Alioune Dior Fall, William Diatta, Malick Gueye, Khady Badji, Emmanuel Bassène and Babacar Faye

Abstract: The analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity of Cassia sieberiana roots were investigated. Analgesic activity had been investigated using acetic acid induced contortions in mice. The aqueous root extract of C. sieberiana at 300 mg/kg per os showed similar analgesic activity than 100 mg/kg of acetylsalicylic acid (20 ± 1.14 vs 26 ± 1.79 contortions) (ns, p < 0.05). In rat paw oedema model, C. sieberiana aqueous root extract significantly decreased carrageenan-induced oedema. These results showed that aqueous root extract of C. sieberiana possessed both analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, which have justified their use in Senegal traditional medicine to treat pain and inflammation.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cassia sieberiana, pain, inflammation, phytotherapy.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Treatment-resistant depression amongst older adults: Risk factors and treatment options

Esther G. Ebenezer

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

The water decoction of Aristolochia debilis Sieb.et Zucc induces renal toxic effects in rats

Li-Qun Song, Xiao-Peng Ma, Li-Zhe Wang, Yu Qiao, Ye-Xu Song and Yan-Chun Ma

Abstract: The present study was designed to investigate toxic effects of different concentration of the Aristolochia debilis Sieb.et Zucc. on renal functions in rats. Wistar rats were randomly divided into low dosage group (treated with A. debilis Sieb.et Zucc at a dose of 0.81 g.kg-1.d-1 for three months), moderate dosage group (at a dose of 4.05 g.kg-1.d-1), high dosage group (at a dose of 8.1 g.kg-1.d-1) and control group. The renal function and urine nacety- -D- amino- glucosidase (NAG), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Scr) was measured in 1, 2 and 3 months. The histopathological changes were examined by light and electron microscopy. The urine NAG level was elevated in High dosage group and Moderate dosage group, but there were no significant differences of BUN and serum creatinine among four groups. The renal histopathological examination showed that slight tubular-interstitial injury was detected in moderate dosage group and obvious renal injury was observed in High dosage group. Nevertheless, there were no renal abnormalities in Low dosage group. In summary, low dosage of A. debilis Sieb.et Zucc was rather safety and did not cause the renal toxicity. Nevertheless, moderate and high dosage of A. debilis Sieb.et Zucc may impair renal function and induce renal tubular-interstitial injury.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Aristolochia debilis Sieb.et Zucc., aristolochic acid, renal injury, NAG, BUN.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Ethno medicinal information on collation and identification of some medicinal plants in Research Institutes of South-west Nigeria

I. O. Lawal*, N. E. Uzokwe, A. B. I. Igboanugo, A. F. Adio, E. A. Awosan, J. O. Nwogwugwu, B. Faloye, B. P. Olatunji and A. A. Adesoga

Abstract: An arboretum is a collection of trees. Related collections include a fruticetum (from the Latin frutex, meaning shrub), and a viticetum, a collection of vines. More commonly today, an arboretum is a botanical garden containing living collections of woody plants intended at least partly for scientific study. Distribution of medicinal plants information were investigated in International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) arboretum and Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) arboretum to collate and identify different medicinal plants used in the traditional pharmacopoeia for the treatment of diseases affecting human body. The indigenous knowledge of local traditional healers and the native plants used for medicinal purposes were collected through questionnaire and personal interviews during field trips. A total of 120 informants aged 35 and above comprising 64% males and 36% females were interviewed. The investigation revealed that a total of 129 species of medicinal plants (Trees (78%), Shrubs (18%), Herbs (3%) and Climbers (1%)) belonging to 39 families 94 genera were identified and documented. Much of the plant families have been endangered as they were not easily found during the field work. Plants are documented for further research on their secondary metabolites, biological attributes in the various plant parts.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Ethnomedicinal, identification, collation, research institutes, arboretum.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Cytotoxicity of extracts from fruit plants against leukemic cell lines

Chadarat Ampasavate, Siriporn Okonogi and Songyot Anuchapreeda*

Abstract: This study examined the antileukemic activity of non edible parts of 13 common Thai tropical fruits. Their ethanolic extracts were tested for cytotoxic effects on U937, K562, HL60, Molt 4 and normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Three of 20 crude plant extracts (kaffir lime leaves, mangosteen peels, and wampee leaves) had strong cytotoxic effects on K562, U937, and Molt4 cells. The IC50 values of kaffir lime leaves on those cells were 26.1, 9.0 and 11.9 µg/ml respectively, whereas those of mangosteen peel were 23.6, 4.5 and 10.1 µg/ml, and those of wampee leaves were 71.9, 13 and 70.4 µg/ml. Furthermore, pomegranate peel extract had a potent cytotoxic effect on HL60 cells (IC50 of 8.0 µg/ml), but was non-toxic to normal PBMCs, indicating that as a potential source of antileukemic agents.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Fruit plants, cytotoxicity, leukemic cell line.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Protective effect of quercetin against necrosis and apoptosis induced by experimental ischemia and reperfusion in rat liver

khaki Arash

Abstract: Quercetin is a well-known flavonoid and a strong antioxidant. Quercetin an important flavonoid possesses beneficial effects on health due to its antioxidant function. One mechanism of the antioxidant action of quercetin was involved in scavenging free radicals, such as superoxide radicals generated by xanthine and xanthine oxidase. To study the effect of quercetin on apoptosis and necrosis induced by 1 h ischemia followed by 1.5 h reperfusion. Adult Wistar rats underwent 1 h of partial liver ischemia followed by 1.5 h reperfusion. Eighteen Wistar rats were divided into sham-operated control group (I) (n = 10), ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) group (0.9 % saline (5 ml/kg, orally) for 14 days) (II) (n = 10), and quercetin group (15 mg/kg body weight daily orally for 14 days before inducing ischemia-reperfusion maneuver) (III)(n=10). Apoptotic and necrotic hepatocytes, nitric oxide levels in hepatocytes. Liver injury was assessed by plasma alanine transaminases (ALT), aspartate transaminases (AST), liver histopathology. An ischemic and reperfusion hepatocellular injury occurred as was indicated by increased serum ALT, AST, histopathology. Pretreatment with quercetin significantly decreased serum ALT and AST level and apoptotic and necrotic cells after 1 h ischemia followed by 3 h of reperfusion. Nitric oxide production in hepatocytes was increased twofold by quercetin treatment when compared with I/R group. Histopathology studies showed markedly diminished hepatocellular injury in quercetin -pretreated rats during the hepatic I/R. Thus, it may be concluded that quercetin can significant protection from necrosis and apoptosis in I/R injury with nitric oxide and plasma alanine transaminases (ALT) production and it has anti-ROS effect in ischemic reperfusion.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Apoptosis, ischemia, reperfusion, quercetin.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Introducing pharmacoeconomics (PE) in medical undergraduate curriculum

Ujjwala Kulkarni*, Y. A. Deshmukh, V. V. Moghe, Nima Rege and Madhuri Kate

Abstract: Increasing health care cost is a major concern in developing world. Patients are affected by the high pricing of drugs and though the symptoms improve the poor patient compliance sets in if the regimen is heavy on the pocket of the patient. Therefore, concept of Pharmacoeconomics are essential for physicians to prescribe individualized drug therapy based on essential drug concept, STEP as well as rational utilization of drug( R.U.D.) criteria, with minimal costs to improve the cost-effectiveness of the drug therapy. Sensitizing medical undergraduates on pharmacoeconomics during second year training will inculcate the habit of prescribing cost effective medicine and cost consideration throughout their medical career and will decrease the monitory burden on the patient and the society. A module on PE was prepared and implemented in tertiary medical hospital for second year medical undergraduates. Information on essential drug concept and on PE was given to the second year medical undergraduates by organizing didactic lectures. In practical session individual cost, total cost of prescription was discussed by giving exercise on simulated case history with drug therapy. Students performance on the pharmacoeconomics was assessed by pre and post project questionnaire. Statistical analysis shows significant differences between pre and post project questionnaire. This show that second year MBBS students sensitized for Pharmacoeconomics can consider the cost of a drugs while prescription writing in future. Exercise shows successful sensitization of students on PE. Thus PE can be introduced in second year pharmacology curriculum for cost consideration of drugs and total cost of prescription while prescription writing for the patient.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Medical curriculum, suitability, tolerance, efficacy and price of the drug (STEP), rational utilization of drug (RUD), pharmacoeconomics.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

A comparative study for interpenetrating polymeric network (IPN) of chitosan-amino acid beads for controlled drug release

Manjusha Rani, Anuja Agarwal, Tungabidya Maharana and Yuvraj Singh Negi*

Abstract: The paper addresses development of novel pH sensitive interpenetrating polymeric network (IPN) beads composed of chitosan-glycine-glutamic acid cross linked with glutaraldehyde and their use for controlled drug release. A comparative study has been carried out on these IPN beads with the beads that of chitosan, chitosan-glycine and chitosan-glutamic acid cross linked with glutaraldehyde. The beads were characterized by FTIR to confirm the cross linking reaction and drug interaction with cross linked polymer in beads, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to understand the surface morphology and internal structure and DSC to find out the thermal stability of beads. The swelling behavior of the beads at different time intervals was monitored in solutions of pH 2.0 and pH 7.4. The release experiments were performed in solutions of pH 2.0 and pH 7.4 at 37°C using chlorpheniramine maleate (CPM) as a model drug. The swelling behavior and release of drug were observed to be dependent on pH, degree of cross linking and their composition. The results indicate that the newly constructed cross linked IPN beads of chitosan-glycine-glutamic acid might be useful as a vehicle for controlled release of drug. The kinetics of drug release from beads was best fitted by Higuchi’s model in which release rate is largely governed by rate of diffusion through the matrix.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Cross-linked beads, chitosan, chlorpheniramine maleate, glycine, glutamic acid, controlled drug release.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Salivary nicotine and cotinine concentrations in unstimulated and stimulated saliva

N. Robson*, A. J Bond and K. Wolff

Abstract: Salivary nicotine and salivary cotinine is widely used in clinical and epidemiological studies to validate smoking cessation. However, the reported collection for salivary nicotine and salivary cotinine vary by technique and duration. This study investigated the influence of salivary collection by unstimulation and stimulation technique of the concentration of salivary nicotine and salivary cotinine. It was found that unstimulated technique produced the highest salivary nicotine concentration, whereas stimulated technique produced the highest salivary cotinine concentration. The results of this study suggest that it is important to standardise salivary nicotine and cotinine collection technique.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Saliva, smoker, nicotine, cotinine, technique, biological marker, oral, verify, passive, tobacco, smoke.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Assessment of antibacterial and cytotoxic activity of some locally used medicinal plants in Sundarban mangrove forest region

Shazid M. D. Sharker* and Israt Jahan Shahid

Abstract: Polyalthia longifolia (Annonaceae), Elaeocarpus serratus (Elaeocarpaceae) and Trachyspermum ammi (Umbelliferae) are traditionally employed to cure various health ailments in Bangladesh. Extracts of these medicinal plants were tested for their potential antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity using the disc diffusion method and the brine shrimp lethality tests respectively. Ethanol extracts of the barks of P. longifolia, leaves of E. serratus and seeds of T. ammi showed significant antibacterial activity against some pathogenic bacteria and moderate to mild lethality to the brine shrimps tested. This study provides some scientific bases for the use of this plant as a remedy for stomach, skin and bacterial infections in folkloric medicine whose causative agents are some of the pathogens studies. The activities observed could be attributed to the presence of some of the phytochemicals detected which have been associated with antibacterial activity and cytotoxic property.[...] Read More.

Keywords:

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

In -vitro and -vivo antioxidant activities of aqueous extract of Strychnos henningsii Gilg.

S. O. Oyedemi, G. Bradley and A. J. Afolayan*

Abstract: Strychnos henningsii Gilg is used traditionally for the treatment of various ailments in southern Africa traditional medicine. The antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity of aqueous extract of this plant was investigated both in -vivo and -vitro using spectroscopic method against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), superoxide anions, hydrogen peroxide (H 2O2), nitric oxide (NO), 2,2’- azinobis [3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid] diammonium salt (ABTS) and the ferric reducing agent. Total phenols, flavonoid, flavonol and proanthocyanidin were also determined to assess their effects on the antioxidant activity of this plant. Free radical scavenging activity of the plant extract against H2O2, ABTS and NO was concentration dependent with IC50 value of 0.023, 0.089 and 0.49 mg/ml respectively. However, S. henningsii exhibited lower inhibitory activity against DPPH with IC50 value of 0.739 mg/ml. The reducing power of the extract was found to be concentration dependent. The administration of the aqueous extract at 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight to male Wistar rats significantly increased the percentage inhibition of reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Whereas, lipid peroxidation level in hepatotoxic rats decreased significantly at the dose of 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight at the end of 7 days. The extract yielded high phenol content (48 mg/g tannic acid equivalent) followed by proanthocyanidin (8.7 mg/g catechin equivalent) flavonol (5.5 mg/g quercetin equivalent) and flavonoids (4.8 mg/g quercetin equivalent) respectively. A positive linear correlation was observed between these polyphenols and the free radical scavenging activities.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Strychnos henningsii, enzymes, free radicals, CCl4, antioxidant activity.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Anti-ulcerogenic evaluation of root extract of Ficus hispida Linn. in aspirin ulcerated rats

D. Sivaraman* and P. Muralidharan

Abstract: The present study was designed to investigate the anti-ulcer efficacy of methanolic root extract of the Ficus hispida Linn. (FH), which was known to possess various therapeutic properties. The reason for the study was that the known non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were full of side effects especially ulceration causes Gastric ulceration an economic loss and a source of welfare concern worldwide. There are 350,000 to 500,000 new cases per year and more than one million are ulcer-related hospitalizations. We found that FH decreased the incidence of ulcers and also enhanced the healing of ulcers. Methanolic extract of FH at doses 200 and 400 mg/kg was found to be effective by 63.8 and 68.44% respectively in aspirin (ASP) induced ulcer model and significantly reduced free and total acidity. It was observed that anti-ulcer effect of FH might be due to its cytoprotective effect rather than antisecretory activity. Conclusively, FH was found to possess potent anti-ulcerogenic as well as ulcer-healing properties and could act as a potent therapeutic agent against peptic ulcer disease.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Ficus hispida Linn., peptic ulcer, aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antimicrobial activities of the leaves and roots of Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb

Fiaz Aziz Minhas, Habib-ur-Rehaman, Ansar Yasin, Zahid Iqbal Awan and Muhammad Altaf Hussain

Abstract: The leaves and root of Elaeagnus umbellata (Elaeagnaceae) were extracted successively with various organic solvents and water. These crude extracts were evaluated for antimicrobial activities against three gram positive bacteria, five gram negative bacteria, one yeast and one fungus by using disc diffusion method. The acetone, petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of leaves and roots of the plant exhibited prominent activities while chloroform, ethanol extracts showed moderate activity and water extract showed no activity against all the tested bacteria. Ethanolic and methanolic extracts also showed considerable activity against fungus and yeast. The root extracts of the plant were found more active against the microorganisms.[...] Read More.

Keywords: E. umbellata, extracts, fungi, yeast, antibiotic discs.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Treatment of Helicobacter Pylori, comparison of three regimens, a double blind randomized trial

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: Helicobacter pylori infection is a common and serious bacterial infection but therapies are often prescribed empirically, increasingly compromised by antimicrobial resistance, and provide inferior results compared with antimicrobial therapies for other common infectious diseases. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of standard triple, sequential, and concomitant therapies for eradication of H. pylori in a randomized, double-blinded, comparative clinical trial conducted in Palestine. Patients who underwent upper endoscopy for a clinical indication and tested positive for rapid urease test (RUT) were included, written consent was signed, and randomly allocated into three groups:- Group A received the conventional Triple therapy; Esomeprazole 40mg OD, Amoxicillin 1g and Clarithromycin 500 mg both given BID for 10 days. Group B received sequential therapy; Esomeprazole 40 mg OD and Amoxicillin 1g BID for 5 days then Esomeprazole 40mg OD, Clarithromycin 500 mg BID and Tinidazole 500mg BID for another 5 days, and Group C received concomitant therapy; Esomeprazole 40 mg OD, Amoxicillin 1g, Tinidazole 500mg and Clarithromycin 500 mg all given BID, for 10 days. Stool antigen was done 4 weeks after completion of treatment. Binary logistic regression and X2 test with (P < 0.05) were appropriately used to compare the eradication rates. Six hundred and seventy three (673) patients were tested by (RUT), of whom 242 patients (36%) had a positive RUT, 203 patients were included in the study and 163 patients completed the study. In an intention to treat analysis, the overall eradication rate was 73%. The eradication rates were 70.2%, 70.9% and 77.2% in Groups, A, B, and C respectively. Although the eradication rates achieved by the concomitant therapy was higher than both sequential and triple therapy, these differences were not statistically significant. The eradication rates were low with the three protocols. The three protocols are equal as first line treatment of H. pylori. The sequential and concomitant therapies were not superior to triple therapy. New regimens that are more effective, with a higher eradication rate need to be developed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Helicobacter pylori, eradication therapies, ulcers, concomitant therapies.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of Gunnera perpensa (Gunneraceae)

Mpumelelo Nkomo, Benedicta N. Nkeh-Chungag*, Learnmore Kambizi, Eugene Jamot Ndebia and Jehu E. Iputo

Abstract: Gunnera perpensa, which belongs to the Gunneraceae family, is used in folk medicine to relieve rheumatoid pain, facilitate childbirth and for healing wounds. In this study, the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties of this plant extracts were evaluated using the abdominal constriction, hot-plate, formalin, hyperalgesia and fresh egg albumin-induced inflammation. The extracts were administered orally at the test doses of 150 and 200 mg/kg prior to the above-mentioned assays. Both extracts produced significant (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) inhibition of thermal nociception induced by hot plate respectively. Chemical nociception induced by intraperitoneal and sub plantar injections of acetic acid and formalin respectively, were significantly (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) reduced by the extracts in a dose independent manner. The extracts also showed significant antihyperalgesia and anti inflammatory properties (P < 0.05, P < 0.01) respectively. Our findings suggest that G. perpensa possesses both antinociceptive and anti inflammatory activity supporting its traditional use for pain management.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Gunnera perpensa, hot plate, writhing, formalin, inflammation, pain.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Treatment with extracts of Eugenia jambolana seed and Aegle marmelos leaf extracts prevents hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in alloxan induced diabetic rats

T. Gohil*, N. Pathak, N. Jivani, V. Devmurari and J. Patel

Abstract: Eugenia jambolana and Aegle marmelos are used extensively in the indigenous system of medicine as an anti-diabetic agent. The current investigation focuses on the serum insulin augmentation, anti-hyperglycemic and anti-hyperlipidemic property of a combined aqueous extracts of E. jambolana and A. marmelos (EA) on alloxan induced diabetic rats. The diabetes induced animals were fed with plant extracts at the increasing dosage of 200, 300 and 400 mg of body wt. The combined plant extracts administrated animals revealed a significant (P < 0.001) increment of serum insulin levels, higher reduction in hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia when compared to the diabetic control rats (P < 0.001). The histological studies of the endocrine region of pancreas of diabetic animals revealed that shrinkage of cells of islets of langerhans. The combined plant extracts treated animals revealed restoration of - cells. The restoration of cells was evident at higher dose level that is, 400 mg/by wt extracts fed groups.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Eugenia jambolana, Aegle marmelos, alloxan, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of fractionation on antiradical efficacy of ethyl acetate extract of Terminalia chebula Retz.

Harpreet Walia, Rajbir Singh, Subodh Kumar and Saroj Arora*

Abstract: There is currently an upsurge of interest in phytochemicals as new sources of natural antioxidants. The aim is to use them in foods and pharmaceutical preparations in order to replace synthetic antioxidants, which are being restricted due to their potential health risks and toxicity. The relative levels of antioxidant activity and the total phenolic content of ethyl acetate extract/fractions of Terminalia chebula have been determined using DPPH, Deoxyribose, Reducing power, Chelating power, Lipid peroxidation, DNA nicking assay and the Folin- Ciocalteu colorimetric method. There was a positive linear correlation between antioxidant activity and total phenolic content of ethyl acetate extract/fractions. Thus, it was concluded that phenolic compounds were the predominant antioxidant components in the fruits of T. chebula. The extract was prepared by maceration method at room temperature and further fractionated with ethyl acetate and water. It was observed that the free radical scavenging activity of fractions was comparatively more as compared to their crude extract and ethyl acetate fraction showed the maximum effect in all assays. The percent inhibition with ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) of ethyl acetate extract was observed to be 71.5, 90.0, 75.1, 74.3 and 77.6% in DPPH, site specific and non-site specific deoxyribose, chelating power and lipid peroxidation assays, respectively at maximum concentration tested.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Terminalia chebula, oxidative stress, phytochemicals, antioxidants, lipid peroxidation.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Short Communication

In vitro activity of cranberry extract against etiological agents of urinary tract infections

Mohammad Rahbar* and Kambiz Diba

Abstract: Cranberries have long been the focus of interest for their beneficial effects in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). The objective of this study was to determine in vitro activity of cranberry extract on common etiologic agents of urinary tract infections isolated from patients. Filter sterilized methanol extract of cranberry was prepared and used in the present study. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was evaluated for active crude extract. The MIC value of methanol extract were 0.391 mg/ml for Enterobacter aerogenes and Staphylococcus aureus whereas the MIC of methanol extract of cranberry were 1.2500 and 0.0195 mg/ml for Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae respectively. The lower MIC value of cranberry extract against K. pneumoniae in comparison to other three organisms suggests that K. pneumoniae showed greater sensitivity towards the extracts of the cranberry extract.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Antibacterial activity, cranberry, urinary tract infections.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Review

Hypothesis: A promising effect of 5-HT1A receptor agonists in alleviating motor symptoms of Parkinsonâ€™s disease

Review

Abstract: Parkinson©s disease (PD) is a disease caused by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons of substantia nigra, pars compacta. The fact that serotonergic system is also involved in PD has been raised from previous studies. Drugs that have effect on 5-HT1A receptors of basal ganglia might inhibit and facilitate serotonin and dopamine release, respectively. Augmentation of 5-HT1A agonists (e.g., buspirone) to anti-parkinsonian and neuroleptic drugs (D2 receptor blockers) may increase efficiency of anti-parkinsonian drugs and may also prevent motor complications induced by neuroleptic drugs.[...] Read More.

Keywords: 5-HT1A receptor, motor symptom, Parkinson disease.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Aloe ferox Mill. aqueous extract

M. Mwale and P. J. Masika*

Abstract: Pharmacological activities of leaf gel and pulp of Aloe ferox have been extensively evaluated. However, there is scanty information on the pharmacological activities of the whole leaf of A. ferox. Carrageenan, histamine and formaldehyde- induced rat paw oedema were conducted to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity of A. ferox whole leaf aqueous extract. Tail flick, formalin and acetic acid tests were conducted to assess the analgesic activity of the plant. A. ferox exhibited highest anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities in the highest dose (400 mg/kg) tested. This dose level exerted highest anti-inflammatory activity; 78.2 and 89.3% for carrageenan and formaldehyde-induced rat paw oedema, respectively. The analgesic activity was 57.1 and 67.3% for the 400 mg/kg dose in phase 1 and 2, respectively of formalin test and 88.2% in acetic acid test. A. ferox reduced inflammation and relieved pain in rats at the highest dose level studied. This supports the extensive use of the plant as an antihelmintic reducing the inflammation and pain that might have been caused by gastro-intestinal parasite infections.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Leaf extract, pain reduction, oedema inhibition.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Preparation of new formulations of anti-acne creams and their efficacy

Muhammad Athar Abbasi*, Ayesha Kausar , Aziz-ur-Rehman, Hina Saleem, Sadia Muhammad Jahangir, Sabahat Zahra Siddiqui and Viqar Uddin Ahmad

Abstract: Acne vulgaris (commonly called acne) is a common skin condition, caused by changes in the pilosebaceous units, skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland via androgen stimulation. In the present study six new anti-acne compositions were made for the treatment of acne and their efficacy was studied on the volunteers of age group of 20 - 28 years via topical applications. Particular emphasis was placed on treating acne conditions without drying and irritating the skin.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Acne vulgaris, pilosebaceous units, Aloe vera, bismuth subnitrate, stearic acid.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Assessment of the intrinsic and stability properties of the freeze-dried and formulated extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. (Malvaceae)

Philip F. Builders*, Chukwuemeka R. Ezeobi , Florence D. Tarfa and Modupe I. Builders

Abstract: Water extract of the calyces of Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn (Malvaceae) is used widely as a food additive and refreshing drink with proven medicinal benefits, which are attributed to its phytochemical constituents. Relevant physicochemical and stability studies have been carried out on the freeze-dried and formulated samples of aqueous extract of the calyces of H. sabdariffa. The phytochemical constituents, moisture sorption characteristics and the effect of extract concentration, light and pH on the color of the extract were determined. The stability of the anthocyanins contained in the extract and the thermal characteristics of the freeze-dried extract were also evaluated. The dye solution which has hot-pink color and a pH of 2.1 ± 0.6 contained flavonoids, glycosides, sterols, balsams, phenols, monosaccharides, free reducing and combined reducing sugars. The extract solution also showed colour and light transmittance responsiveness to changes in pH. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) - spectra and the diffraction scanning thermograms show the degradation effect of light on the extract. The dry samples of the extract showed higher photo-stability relative to the solutions. The isothermal moisture sorption profile of the powdered freeze -dried extract and the formulated granules showed characteristic sigmoidal curves corresponding to Type 2 and 5 isotherms respectively. The aqueous extract of the calyces of H. sabdariffa generally showed high light and pH sensitivity and positive tests for the presence of some active secondary plant metabolites that are probably responsible for its claimed health benefits.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Hibiscus sabdariffa, physicochemical properties, stability properties, formulation properties.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

An investigation into studentsâ€™ study habit in volumetric analysis in the senior secondary provision: A case study in Ondo State, Nigeria

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: An investigation was carried out on students’ study habit in volumetric analysis at the senior secondary school level in Ondo State. A descriptive research design was adopted in the study. Questionnaire on study habit inventory was adapted and used to collect information from the respondents at various sampled schools. The sample comprised 240 senior secondary II chemistry students drawn from six schools in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State. The hypotheses investigated with respect to students’ study habit problems such as home work/ assignment, reading and note-taking, students’ concentration, time allocation, teachers’ consultation as human variables were analyzed using chi-square statistics at 0.05 level of significance. The results indicated that the main sources of students’ study problems have strong influence on students’ study habit which is causally related to the performance and consequently the efficiency of the students during the practical lesson in volumetric analysis. Based on the findings of this study, it was recommended that chemistry teachers need proper exposure and orientation to some psychological study problems in order to understand students’ developmental and intellectual progress so as to improved learners’ performances. Hence, there is a need for workshops and seminar for teachers where the importance of effective study habit behavioural pattern would be stressed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Volumetric analysis, volumetric titration, study habit, practical activities.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Biological screening of seventeen medicinal plants used in the traditional systems of medicine in Pakistan for antimicrobial activities

Farnaz Malik, Tahira Mirza, Humayun Riaz, Abdul Hameed and Shahzad Hussain

Abstract: Antibacterial properties of 51 aqueous, ethanolic and n- hexane extracts of seventeen medicinal plants from fourteen families used in the traditional system of medicines in Pakistan were tested against ten commonly prevalent gram negative and gram positive bacteria. In particular we examined the enteric pathogens and yeast using agar well diffusion method. The extracts of Eucalyptus globulus, Emblica officinalis and Sphaeranthus were found to have high levels of activity against all ten of the microorganisms. Ethanolic extracts of Azadirecta indica, Cedrella toona, Punicia granatum, Berginia ciliata and Lawsonia alba have shown considerable activity. Aqueous extracts of B. ciliata, L. alba and P. granatum have also shown low to moderate antimicrobial activity. The hexane extracts of the other fourteen medicinal plants and extracts from Calotropics procera, Melia azdirecta, Myrtus communis, Berberis aristata, Aspholedus tinuipholius had either no activity against most of the organisms or moderate activity against few organisms. Antibacterial activity of some of these plant extracts was comparable with commercially available antibiotics. Pakistan has a rich flora with broad potential for new antimicrobial agents which can be used as a substitute for current antibiotics against which wide spread resistance has developed.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Antimicrobial properties, crude extracts, Pakistani medicinal plants.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Promising antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of the aqueous ethanolic extract of carob leaves

Khaled Nagib, Omayma A. Eldahshan* and Walid F. A. M. El-Khatib

Abstract: Plants are endless reservoir for several phytochemicals including antioxidant and cytotoxic drugs. The objective of this study was the investigation of the antioxidant and the cytotoxic activities (against Vero and HEp-2 cell lines) of the aqueous ethanolic extract of carob leaves. The extract inhibited xanthine oxidase at IC50 of 244 µg/ml. There is a marked cytotoxic activity of crude aqueous extract of carob on both mammalian cell lines (Vero and HEp-2) and the effect is more obvious on the human cell line (HEp-2). The results revealed that the crude aqueous extract of carob leaves could be a promising source for antioxidant as well as antitumor bioactive agents.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Carob leaves, aqueous ethanolic extract, Ceratonia siliqua, antioxidant, xanthine oxidase, cytotoxicy.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of cimetidine on gentamicin-losartan induced - nephrotoxicity in rats

S. M. Poormoosavi, M. A. Behmanesh and H Najafzadeh*

Abstract: Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is an important cause of renal failure. Aminoglycoside antibiotics, such as gentamicin can produce nephrotoxicity, due to in part to an imbalance of pro and anti-oxidants (oxidative stress). Cytochrome P 450 is one enzyme that involved in acute renal failure. Inhibition of this enzyme may decrease drug-induced nephrotoxicity. The aim of present study was evaluating the effect of cimetidine on gentamicin-losartan nephrotoxicity in rats. A control group (saline, group 1, n = 6) was compared with rats administrated gentamaicin by intrapritoneal injection, at dose rate of 80 mg/kg, once daily for 7 days (group 2, 3 and 4). The effect of losartan (group 3) and losartan and cimetidine in combination (group 4) were compared on gentamaicin-induced nephrotoxicity. Losartan alone (group 5) and losartan with cimetidine (group 6) were used for evaluation effect of these drugs in absence of gentamicin. Renal function was assessed using serum biochemical markers including creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), sodium and potassium. Serum creatinine concentration was increased significantly in group 2 compared with group 1. Serum creatinine concentrations were significantly elevated in groups 3 than in group 2 (p = 0.001). Serum creatinine concentration was significantly decreased in groups 4 than in group 3 (p = 0.001) . Serum creatinine concentration in group 5 and 6 was similar group 1. Serum BUN concentrations were significantly elevated in groups 3 than in group 2 (p = 0.001). The cimetidine prevented BUN elevation in group 4 with comparison to group 3 but serum BUN in this group was significantly more than groups 1 and 2. Serum sodium level was significantly decreased in group 3. Serum potassium level significantly increased in group 3 and 4. Losartan severely increased gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity. Cimetidine appears to have protective effect on gentamicin-losartan-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Gentamicin, cimetidine, losartan, vitamin E, rats, nephrotoxicity.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Formulation optimization of nifedipine containing microspheres using factorial design

Solmaz Dehghan, Reza Aboofazeli, Mohammadreza Avadi and Ramin Khaksar*

Abstract: Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker which is used in the treatment of hypertension angina pectoris. The aim of this study was to formulate and optimize nifedipine containing microspheres in an attempt to prepare a suitable sustained release delivery system using factorial design. Drug loaded microspheres were prepared using Eudragit RL100, through solvent evaporation technique. In the next step, the effect of different formulation variables, including the amount of polymer (1 - 2 g), stabilizer (0.1 - 0.5 g) and drug/polymer ratio (0.05:1 – 0.1:1) on the appearance, physical properties of particles, and the amount of loaded drug was investigated. Based on the type and the variables studied, 8 formulations were designed using factorial design method, and were then prepared and their drug contents were determined. In order to detect the precise effect of the formulation variables and their interactions, design expert software was used. Data analysis showed that microspheres with optimum drug loading could be prepared using 1 g polyvinylalcohol, 1 – 2 g polymer and 0.07:1 drug/polymer ratio. Among the formulations suggested and based on the predicted responses and their desirability indices, 6 formulations were selected as the optimum formulations. Finally, selected microspheres were evaluated from the view points of morphology and release pattern. Results revealed that microspheres obtained from the formulations S19, S20 and S24 could be selected as the best and optimized formulations due to their high drug contents, appropriate invitro drug release after 12 h and desired morphology.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Nifedipine, microsphere, solvent evaporation, eudragit RL100, factorial design.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

In vitro antimicrobial activity of crude leaf and stem bark extracts of Gmelina arborea (Roxb) against some pathogenic species of Enterobacteriaceae

A. M. El-Mahmood*, J. H. Doughari and H. S. Kiman

Abstract: Phytochemical screening of the Gmelina arborea reveals the presence of carbohydrates, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, anthraquinones and cardiac glycosides. The presence of these bioactive compounds in plants is linked to biological activity. Determination of antimicrobial activity using the agar diffusion method showed that the crude extracts of the leave and stembark of the plant inhibited the growth of such recalcitrant pathogenic Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonieae, Proteus mirabilis, Shigella dysenteriea and Salmonella typhi that frequently show above average resistance, the extent of which depended on the solvent and organism. Activity of the extracts was consistently less than the conventional antibiotic, tetracycline. The effectiveness of the extracts was more in the acidic than in alkaline conditions and also increased with increase in temperature. Results provided the scientific bases for the folkloric application of G. arborea as a medicinal plant and ways the plant can be used as source for newer antibiotic substances for the possible control of dysentery, diarrhea, typhoid fever and wound infections associated with these bacteria.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Gmelina arborea, phytochemicals, resistance, extracts, antibiotics, pathogenic, traditional medicine.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effects of ethanol extract of Piper guineense seeds (Schum. and Thonn) on the conception of mice (Mus Musculus)

A. P Ekanem*, F. V. Udoh and E. E. Oku

Abstract: The effects of Piper guineense seeds (Piperaceae) on conception of mice ( Mus musculus) were investigated. Thirty sexually mature mice (3 weeks old) were distributed in plastic cages with each cage containing two females and one male animal. Similar cages and same number of animals were set up as controls. Animals were fed a mixture of feed with extracts of P. guineense seed at various test concentrations (10, 20, 30 and 40 mg/kgBW). Controls were fed similar ration of normal diet without extract. The experiment lasted for 42 days, consisting of 21 days of feeding with extracts with males and females mice staying together in cages, and 21 days of feeding without extracts but male and female animals kept in separate cages to stop further sexual behavior. All the female mice in the control cages gave birth to young ones between the 28 and 35th day of the test periods but no animal in the test group showed signs of pregnancy and none had implantation of fetus in the womb. Histopathology sections of testis and ovary of test animals showed inflamed cells of the gonads compared to normal cells in the controls. Three alkaloidal amides (Piperanine, , -dihydrowasanine and isobutyl-(E,E)-2,4-decadienamide) were isolated by HPLC analysis of the extracts. On the bases of the results obtained, it was concluded that seeds of P. guineense contain substances that interferes with conception in mice.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Piper guineense, conception, mice.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Effect of Telfairia occidentalis on oral glucose tolerance in rats

Olorunfemi Eseyin*, Patrick Ebong, Eyong Eyong, Oladoja Awofisayo and Akeem Agboke

Abstract: The effect of ethanolic extracts of the leaf, seed and fruit of Telfairia occidentalis on oral glucose tolerance was determined. 500 mg/kg of the leaf, seed and fruit extracts were administered separately to a set of overnight fasted rats simultaneously with glucose solution (1 g/kg). Also, 500 mg/kg of the extracts were separately administered 45 min before glucose solution (1 g/kg) was given. Blood glucose concentration was evaluated at 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 min after treatment in both cases. In the simultaneous administration of extracts with glucose, only the leaf extract reduced glucose concentration significantly with AUC and GI values of 11,121.75 and 80.7% compared to control values of 13,782.00 and 100%. When the extracts were administered 45 min before glucose, the leaf and fruit extracts reduced glucose levels significantly with AUC and GI values of 11,240.25 and 84.5%; 10,650.75 and 80.1%, respectively, compared to control values of 13,294.50 and 100%. These results suggest that the ethanolic leaf extract of T. occidentalis could be useful in treatment of impaired oral glucose tolerance.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Telfairia occidentalis, oral glucose tolerance, glucose, area under the curve, glycemic index.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Essential medicines access survey in public hospitals of Burkina Faso

H. Saouadogo* and M. Compaore

Abstract: To solve the problem of essential medicines availability and affordability in the public hospital of Burkina Faso, the Ministry of health conducted a research to implement a hospital pharmacy in each public hospital. The survey expected outcomes include the establishment of an effective self-sustaining essential medicines supply system and promoting community involvement in providing health care by registered deliverance at the patient bed in each hospital. This paper aims to highlight the finding of recent essential medicine availability and the situation of the hospital pharmacy management quality from March 19th to May 29th, 2008. The survey has been performed in nine regional hospitals (CHR) and three university hospitals (CHU) and was realized with five outpatients, five inpatients, pharmacists, physicians and hospital managers. The results indicated that the public hospital system has 22 beds per 100 000 habitants and the average ratio of the essential generic medicines procurement and supply on the hospital budget is 0.9%. To facilitate the medicines access, each hospital is using the supply agreement and the request for proposal or the purchasing order. The pharmaceutical products supply and distribution problems in the hospitals are the main handicap of the health facilities in each hospital. The average cost of prescription for one prescription costs 5187 CFA (8 Euros) in the University Hospital Centres (CHU) and 3841 FCFA (6 Euros) in the Regional Hospital Centres (CHR). In the CHU, only 39% of the prescribed pharmaceutical products are available, but in CHR, only 61% of the pharmaceutical products are available. Conclusion: This survey provides evidence that the essential medicines are less available and affordable for the households in the CHUs. In 2007, the patients spend 78%, in the CHUs, and only 07%, in the CHRs, of their gross domestic product (GDP) for paying the essential medicines fee. For developing the hospital pharmacy, Burkina Faso must create a hospital pharmacy supplier and build a very good status, career and treatment for the pharmacists. Therefore, other question is how the municipality’s councils must be involved in the hospital pharmacy by the municipal health fund?[...] Read More.

Keywords: Pharmacy, medicine and laboratories council, Ministry of health, Burkina Faso.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Spasmogenic, spasmolytic and antihypertensive activity of Forsskalea tenacissima L.

Syed Wadood Ali Shah, Samir Kamil, Waqar Ahmad and Niaz Ali*

Abstract: Crude methanolic extract of Forsskalea tenacissima was screened for possible spasmogenic, spasmolytic and anti hypertensive activities. The extract was studied in isolated rabbit’s jejunum preparations. The extract was also screened for in vivo antihypertensive effect in spontaneous hypertensive Wistar rats. Crude methanolic extract produced spasmogenic activity (15 ± 2% of control, n = 6, p 0.05) at a test dose of 0.1 mg/ml of the cumulative test dose(s) tried as 0.01, 0.03, 0.1, 0.3, 1, 5 and 10 mg/ml. However, at higher dose 5.0 mg/ml, maximum spasmolytic activity was observed (EC50 = 2.7 ± 0.06 mg/ml, n = 6). The extract also produced bradycardiac effects at test doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg. Statistically significant fall in blood pressure (BP) was 19 and 21 mm Hg for test doses of 30 and 100 mg/kg, respectively (p 0.05). Our current work confirms the folkloric uses of F. tenacissima as spasmogenic, antispasmodic (in large doses) and antihypertensive drug.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Forsskalea tenacissima, spasmogenic, spasmolytic, antihypertensive, EC50 values.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Medicinal plants and animals sold by the â€œYan-Shimfidasâ€ of Sabo Wuse in Niger State, Nigeria

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: Sabo Wuse, a resettlement in Tafa Local Government Area of Niger State inhabits the original inhabitants of Wuse in Abuja, the Federal Capital of Nigeria. Despite the close proximity of about 65km to the urban settlement of Abuja, Sabo Wuse is still a relatively remote settlement; their lifestyle remained more or less unchanged and therefore, relied on their traditional knowledge for health care delivery. Recent ethnobotanical survey in Sabo Wuse has documented plants not indigenous to the area. In view of this, a survey was carried out to identify and document plants and animal materials sold by the Yan- shimfidas in the local settlement and to study their uses in treatment of ailments and other socio-cultural problems. The result shows that most of the herb sellers of Sabo Wuse were immigrants from the northern part of the country who had stayed in the village of Sabo Wuse for over twenty years. Thirty-four different plant species in twenty-one different families were documented. These were in the form of stem barks, leaves, roots, fruits, seeds, flower buds and fruit juices. Six different animal fats and skin, dung or other parts of animal of twenty two different species were also documented. All the materials documented were used for the treatment of various diseases and ailments ranging from the physical to the metaphysical. The study uncovered the remains of ancient medical practices which still exist in traditional societies in Nigeria. Therefore, the documentation of these practices can conserve the culture and traditional knowledge of this community.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Indigenous knowledge, ‘Yan-Shimfida’, Sabo-Wuse, Nigeria.

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Research Article

On the production of CONAVIRÂ® immune-booster by good manufacturing practice: Development of specifications for the herbal component

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: CONAVIR ® is an immunostimulant phytomedicine developed at the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development, Abuja. The paper describes the steps taken and the results obtained in the attempt to develop specifications for the herbal component – the aerial parts of Andrographis paniculata Ness (Family: Acanthaceae), grown in the Institute’s gardens. The said steps are vital for production as per good manufacturing practice. Qualitative and quantitative tests on the fresh and air-dried materials were carried out as prescribed in standard texts. Quantitative results on the dried herb included: bitterness value, 2.86 ± 1.74 x 103 units per g; loss on drying, 10.64 ± 0.36 %w/w; total ash, 14.10 ± 4.49 %w/w; acid insoluble ash, 1.00 ± 0.06 %w/w; and water extractable matter, 30.37 ± 2.63 %w/w. Tests for phytochemicals revealed the presence of glycosides, saponins, tannins and alkaloids, but not of anthraquinones. Normal phase thin layer chromatography of the aqueous or ethanolic extract gave 5 spots, while the reverse phase of the same extracts gave 6. These results, including macroscopic and sensory examinations of the fresh herb, provided the quantitative and descriptive data needed for identifying and characterizing the herbal component of CONAVIR®.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Conavir, immune-booster, phytomedicine, specifications, herbal component, Andrographis paniculata, Acanthaceae, good manufacturing practice (GMP).

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Phyllanthus amarus against extended spectrum - lactamase producing Escherichia coli isolated from stool samples of HIV sero-positive patients with or without diarrhoea

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: The antibacterial activity of extracts of the root and leaf of Phyllanthus amarus was assessed against extend spectrum -lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli isolated from the stool samples of HIV sero - positive patients with or without diarrhoea between January, 2009 and April, 2009 using Bauer disc diffusion method. The phenotypic confirmation of ESBL -E. coli were done by Double Disc Synergistic Methods (DDST). The phytochemical analysis of both root and leaf revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, cardiac glycoside, terpenes and anthraquinones. The strains isolated from both HIV sero- positive patients were susceptible to various concentrations of the extracts (5, 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg ml-1). In view of the efficacy of these extracts in inhibiting the growth of extend spectrum -lactamase producing E. coli in HIV sero-positive patients, the utilization of the extracts in the formulation of new antibacterial drugs for the treatment of gastroenteritis in HIV positive patients caused by this organism is strongly recommended especially when the availability and low cost of these medicinal plants are put into strong consideration.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Escherichia coli, susceptibility, Phyllanthus amarus, HIV, cephalosporin, beta-lactamase.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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Research Article

Therapy of Alzheimerâ€™s disease: An update

Full Length Research Paper

Abstract: Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder manifested by deterioration in memory and cognition, impairment in performing activities of daily living, and many behavioral and neuropsychiatric illnesses. The pathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease is widespread neuritic plaques which are accumulations of amyloid beta protein and neurofibrillary tangles. Studies report that deficit in cholinergic system is responsible for cognitive decline and memory loss in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Various pharmacologic approaches are developed for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The leading edge therapies of Alzheimer’s disease are approved drugs; Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonist. The experimental therapies are mostly disease modifying and have neuroprotective approaches. Gamma secretase inhibitors aim to reduce amyloid beta formation. Antioxidants, antiinflammatory agents and statins help by preventing oxidation and inflammation. PPAR gamma agonists, estrogen, heavy metal chelators, 5HT6 antagonists and nicotinic receptor agonists are other therapeutic strategies likely to alter the current treatment paradigm of Alzheimer’s disease. The behavioral abnormalities are best treated first by non-pharmacologic interventions. The pharmacological agents used for treatment of Neuropsychiatric illnesses include antipsychotics, antidepressants and mood stabilizers. Treatment of Alzheimer’s disease also includes health maintenance activities and proper nursing care of the patients.[...] Read More.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, therapy of Alzheimer’s disease, cholinesterase inhibitors, neuroprotective agents, gamma secretase inhibitors.

Int. J. Pharm. & Pharmacol. 2013, 4(1), 1-6;

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International Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology