Formulation and Characterization of Intranasal Mucoadhesive Gel of Antiallergic Drug Loratadine for Improved Bioavailability

The present study aimed to formulate and characterize an intranasal mucoadhesive gel of loratadine to enhance its bioavailability. Loratadine, an antihistamine, is commonly used for the treatment of allergic conditions, but its low bioavailability due to extensive first-pass metabolism can limit its effectiveness. To address this issue, an in situ gel formulation was developed using Poloxamer 407 and Carbopol 934 as excipients. The gel\u27s physicochemical properties, including pH, drug content, viscosity, gel strength, gelation temperature, and drug release profile, were evaluated. FT-IR analysis revealed no significant chemical interaction between the drug and excipients, confirming the stability of the formulation. The gel exhibited shear-thinning behavior and gelation temperatures suitable for nasal administration. In vitro drug release studies showed a sustained release profile, with higher Carbopol concentrations resulting in slower drug release. The mucoadhesion time increased with Carbopol 934 concentration, ensuring prolonged retention at the nasal site. Stability studies demonstrated that the formulations remained stable under standard storage conditions. The results suggest that the loratadine-loaded mucoadhesive gel has the potential to improve the bioavailability of loratadine through intranasal delivery, offering a promising alternative to conventional oral dosage forms. Keywords: Loratadine, Mucoadhesive Gel, Poloxamer 407, Carbopol 934, In Situ Gel, Bioavailability, Drug Release, Nasal Delivery, Stability, FT-I

Quality Risk Management: Degree of formality, Formal and Informal QRM

The International Council for Harmonization’s (ICH) Q9 (R1): Quality Risk Management (QRM) guideline made effective from May, 2023. ICH Q9’s revision provides guidance on QRM for the pharmaceutical industry and regulatory environment. It aims to improve decision-making by offering a systematic approach that complements existing quality practices and guidelines. The document emphasizes that understanding formality in quality risk management can optimize resource usage and support risk-based decision-making by reflecting the level of importance, uncertainty, and complexity of the decision.5 QRM is the process of appropriately managing risks to product quality throughout the product\u27s life cycle in order to optimize its benefit–risk balance. It is a systematic process for the assessment, control, communication and review of risks to the quality of the medicinal product. The level of effort, formality and documentation of the quality risk management process should be commensurate with the level of risk. The overall approach for determining how much formality to apply during QRM activities should be described within the quality system. In addition, subjectivity can directly affect the effectiveness of risk management activities and the decisions made. Therefore, it is important that subjectivity is managed and minimized.1,6 Keywords: Quality Risk Management (QRM), Degree of Formality, Uncertainty, Importance, Complexity, Formal risk assessment, Informal risk assessment, QRM Techniques, QRM Tools, IC

Suranjan Shireen (Colchicum autumnale L.): A review on medicinal utility from the perspective of Unani Medicine

Background: Suranjan Shireen (Colchicum autumnale L.), commonly known as autumn crocus or meadow saffron, holds a prominent place in Unani medicine for its therapeutic potential in musculoskeletal and inflammatory disorders. It is a well-documented medicinal plant in both traditional Unani literature and modern pharmacology. Objective: This review aims to comprehensively explore the pharmacognostic features, phytochemical profile, therapeutic applications, and clinical relevance of Colchicum autumnale from classical and contemporary perspectives. Methods: Classical Unani texts were examined alongside modern scientific literature to highlight the plant’s historical uses and recent pharmacological insights. Results: The principal bioactive compound, colchicine, exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antimitotic properties. Traditionally, the plant has been employed in the treatment of gout (Niqras), sciatica (Irqun Nisa), and chronic joint pain (Waja‘ul Mafāsil). Modern studies confirm its efficacy in managing gout, Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), and inflammatory conditions. However, due to its narrow therapeutic index and known toxicity, careful dosage regulation is essential. Conclusion: The integration of traditional Unani knowledge with modern pharmacological evidence supports the safe and effective therapeutic use of Colchicum autumnale. Future research should focus on standardization, dosage optimization, and toxicity mitigation to ensure clinical safety. Keywords: Colchicum autumnale; Suranjan Shireen; Unani Medicine; Gout, Colchicine

Exploring the Versatile Applications of Almond Gum Through Crosslinking Reactions: A Comprehensive Review

Almond gum, a natural polysaccharide obtained from the exudate of Prunus dulcis, is drawing considerable interest due to its inherent biodegradability, biocompatibility, and multifunctional characteristics. As a plant-derived polymer, it offers a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials in a variety of applications. This review highlights the growing utility of almond gum, particularly focusing on its crosslinking behavior using different agents such as glutaraldehyde, carbodiimides, gelatin, sodium caseinate, polyacrylic acid, and periodate-oxidized sugars. These crosslinking agents significantly enhance the mechanical strength, thermal stability, and water resistance of almond gum-based materials, making them more durable and suitable for practical uses. Such chemically modified forms of almond gum are increasingly used in the pharmaceutical and biomedical sectors, as well as in food processing and environmental applications. Furthermore, the development of polyelectrolyte complexes involving almond gum has opened up promising avenues in advanced drug delivery systems, tissue engineering frameworks, and water purification technologies. These complexes improve the functional versatility of almond gum, allowing it to serve as a carrier, stabilizer, or scaffold in various formulations. Modern research supports the wide-ranging potential of almond gum across disciplines including medicine, agriculture, environmental management, and food science. Its natural origin, combined with its functional adaptability, positions it as a smart and sustainable choice. This review consolidates current advancements and industrial prospects, emphasizing almond gum’s role as a valuable, eco-conscious material for next-generation polymer applications. Keywords: Natural polysaccharide, Crosslinking agents, Drug delivery, Biocompatibility, Sustainable polymer, Environmental applications, Biomedical application

An Updated Perspective of Silk Fibroin-Nanoparticle as a Carrier for Controlled Drug Delivery

This article illustrates a comprehensive review of the use of silk fibroin nanoparticles as a carrier for controlled drug delivery. The article begins by introducing the idea of controlled drug delivery and its importance in modern medicine. The technique, process, and drug-loading capabilities of silk fibroin nanoparticles are then discussed in detail, along with their advantages over other drug delivery systems. The review also examines the potential applications of silk fibroin nanoparticles in various biomedical fields, including cancer therapy, wound healing, and tissue engineering. The paper concludes by highlighting the current challenges and prospects for the development of silk fibroin nanoparticles as an efficient drug delivery system. However, this paper provides valuable insights into the potential of silk fibroin nanoparticles for targeted and controlled drug delivery, making it a useful resource for researchers in the field of drug delivery and biomaterials. Keywords: Silk fibroin, Biomaterials, Nano-particles, Drug delivery, Controlled release

Therapeutic Evaluation of Syrup Nexoliv™ for Liver Health Support

Background: Liver disorders, ranging from hepatitis to cirrhosis, are prevalent globally due to infections, toxins, and metabolic imbalances. Traditional medicine offers numerous herbal formulations known for their hepatoprotective properties. Syrup NexolivTM is a polyherbal formulation composed of 23 medicinal plants traditionally recognized for liver protection, detoxification, and overall hepatobiliary support. This study evaluates the hepatoprotective potential of Syrup Nexoliv (SN) based on its rich phytoconstituents. Objective: To assess the hepatoprotective effect of Syrup Nexoliv through its pharmacologically active ingredients, focusing on their synergistic roles in liver health. Methods: Syrup Nexoliv contains key hepatoprotective herbs such as Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata), Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa), and Bhui Amla (Phyllanthus niruri), known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and detoxifying properties. The formulation was evaluated through literature-based evidence highlighting individual and combined therapeutic effects of its components on hepatic cells, liver enzymes, and oxidative stress parameters. Results: Phytochemical analysis of the ingredients revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as andrographolides, picrosides, berberine, and glycyrrhizin, which exhibit hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant actions. These compounds help in stabilizing hepatic cell membranes, reducing elevated liver enzymes, enhancing bile secretion, and protecting against hepatotoxins. Herbal ingredients like Gilo (Tinospora cordifolia) and Mulethi (Glycyrrhiza glabra) further contribute to immune modulation and liver tissue regeneration. Collectively, these herbs demonstrate a synergistic effect in managing liver dysfunction and supporting hepatic detoxification processes. Conclusion: Syrup Nexoliv, with its comprehensive blend of hepatoprotective herbs, presents a promising natural therapeutic option for preventing and managing liver disorders. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate its efficacy and safety in liver disease patients, along with its potential role as an adjunct to conventional hepatoprotective therapies. Keywords: Liver disorders, herbal formulations, Syrup Nexoli

Sexually Transmitted Diseases: An Overview of Common Diseases, Diagnosis and Treatment

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a significant global health concern, affecting millions of people worldwide. These diseases can lead to serious health complications, including infertility, cancer, and pregnancy problems. The most common STDs include gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and HIV. This review highlights the current state of STDs, their symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies. This article explores the causes, transmission, and effects of each disease, as well as the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. The review also explores the challenges in treating STDs, including antibiotic resistance and the need for effective prevention strategies. Understanding STDs is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment programs, and this review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of STDs. Keywords: gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis, chlymadia, HIV

Current and Emerging Formulations in Topical Antifungal Therapy: A Comparative Overview

Fungal infections, a widespread issue, affect millions of people worldwide and can range from minor skin diseases to serious, sometimes fatal infections. Traditional topical treatments, such as creams, gels, sprays, and ointments, are popular for treating fungal infections due to their ease of use, fewer adverse effects, and safety. However, they have drawbacks like frequent application, inability to stay on the skin for extended periods, and uneven efficacy. New drug delivery technologies, such as liposomes, nanoparticles, and microemulsions, are transforming the treatment of fungal diseases by improving drug interaction with the skin, enhancing patient comfort, and reducing side effects. Keywords:  Fungal infections, Topical antifungal therapy, Nanotechnology, Therapeutic efficacy

Pharmaceutical Skin Care: Skin Structure, Barrier Function, and Advanced Drug Delivery Modes

The skin, as the largest organ of the human body, plays a vital role in protection, Thermoregulation, and sensory perception. It also serves as a complex and selective barrier to external agents, making it both a challenge and an opportunity for pharmaceutical interventions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the skin’s anatomy and physiology, highlighting the structural features of its three primary layers: the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. Special emphasis is placed on the stratum corneum, the outermost layer, which poses the main barrier to drug penetration. Understanding the skin’s functional dynamics is essential for optimizing topical and transdermal drug delivery. The article explores conventional and advanced drug delivery systems utilized in dermatological and cosmetic formulations, including creams, ointments, gels, patches, liposomes, and nanoparticles. Recent advancements in nanotechnology and biocompatible carriers have enhanced drug solubility, stability, and targeted delivery, thereby minimizing systemic side effects while improving therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, techniques such as microneedles, iontophoresis, and sonophoresis are discussed for their potential in overcoming the skin barrier and delivering drugs effectively to deeper layers. This review also examines key factors that influence drug permeation, including molecular weight, lipophilicity, formulation pH, and skin condition. Regulatory considerations, formulation challenges, and patient compliance issues are addressed to provide a holistic view of pharmaceutical skin care. By integrating skin biology with novel drug delivery approaches, this article aims to inform the development of more effective, patient-friendly dermatological therapies and cosmeceutical products. Future directions emphasize personalized formulations, innovative delivery systems, and sustainable ingredients to meet the evolving needs of patients and the market. Keywords: Skin, layers, Formulations, Drug delivery syste

Toxicity Evaluation of a VLP-Based Vaccine Аgainst Human Rotavirus Infection Following a Single Administration in Rats: Serum Biochemistry and Histopathological Examination of Organs and Injection Site

Virus-like particle (VLP) - based vaccines exhibit outstanding clinical, epidemiological, and immunological efficacy and specificity. The novel technology used for producing their active component without incorporating live viruses enables both injectable and non-injectable (e.g., intranasal) administration, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive safety assessment. This study is part of a preclinical toxicological evaluation program aimed at assessing the safety profile of the “Gam-VLP-rota” vaccine candidate targeting human rotavirus infection. The goal of this extended toxicology study was to confirm the safety of a single intramuscular administration of the vaccine in Sprague-Dawley rats. The study focused on identifying possible adverse effects both acutely (within 24 hours post-administration) and after a 14-day recovery period, aiming to detect delayed toxicological signs. Toxicological endpoints included evaluation of target organs, coagulation parameters, hematology, clinical biochemistry, necropsy findings, and histopathological analysis. This article presents a segment of the results, including changes in serum biochemical parameters after a single immunization and histological examination of internal organs and the injection site in rats. Keywords: VLP; vaccines; preclinical studies; vaccine safety; toxicological chemistry