Evaluation of the Suspending Property of Grewia Gum in Metronidazole Suspension

Abstract

The suspending property of grewia gum in metronidazole suspension was evaluated. The gum was extracted by maceration, filtration, precipitation and drying techniques. It was used at 0.3 to 1% w/v as a suspending agent for metronidazole. Sodiumcarboxymethylcellulose (SCMC) and tragacanth were used as basis for comparison. The suspending properties evaluated included the sedimentation rate, sedimentation volume, ease of redispersibility, apparent viscosity and degree of flocculation. The effect of electrolyte, pH, temperature and ageing on the viscosity of the suspension was also investigated. Results obtained after 8 weeks of storage showed that the optimum suspending concentration for grewia gum in the drug was 1% w/v. The sedimentation rate, sedimentation volume and the viscosity of the suspension containing grewia gum were superior to those made with SCMC. No significant (P >0.05) difference in these properties was observed when compared with suspension containing tragacanth. The suspension containing grewia gum was moderately redispersed. The degree of flocculation increased in the order SCMC

Keywords: Grewia gum; metronidazole; suspension, evaluation

Nigerian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, Vol. 8 No 1 pp. 247 - 254 (September 2010)