Development and evaluation of a reconstitutable dry suspension containing isoniazid for flexible pediatric dosing

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of childhood death. Despite the startling statistics, it is neglected globally as evidenced by treatment and clinical care schemes, mostly extrapolated from studies in adults. The objective of this study was to formulate and evaluate a reconstitutable dry suspension (RDS) containing isoniazid, a first-line anti-tubercular agent used in the treatment and prevention of TB infection in both children and adults. The RDS formulation was prepared by direct dispersion emulsification of an aqueous-lipid particulate interphase coupled with lyophilization and dry milling. The RDS appeared as a cream-white free-flowing powder with a semi-crystalline and microparticulate nature. Isoniazid release was characterized with an initial burst up to 5 minutes followed by a cumulative release of 67.88% ± 1.88% (pH 1.2), 60.18% ± 3.33% (pH 6.8), and 49.36% ± 2.83% (pH 7.4) over 2 h. An extended release at pH 7.4 and 100% drug liberation was achieved within 300 min. The generated release profile best fitted the zero order kinetics (R2 = 0.976). RDS was re-dispersible and remained stable in the dried and reconstituted states over 4 months and 11 days respectively, under common storage condition

A review on the anti-hyperglycaemic potential of Catharanthus roseus and Portulacaria afra

Diabetes mellitus is a prevalent non-communicable disease affecting individuals in developed and developing countries. However, low-income countries face significant challenges in managing diabetes due to socio-economic factors resulting in high mortality rates annually. The lack of adequate healthcare facilities and resources in low-income countries limits access to synthetic anti-hyperglycaemic medication, leading to an increased reliance on traditional medicinal plants to manage diabetes mellitus. One such traditional remedy is the combination of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don and Portulacaria afra Jacq. (1:1) used by traditional healers in South Africa to lower blood glucose levels and manage diabetes symptoms. Catharanthus roseus has demonstrated anti-hyperglycaemic activity in diabetic-induced rats, while previous studies have identified various pharmacological potentials of P. afra, including anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. This review aims to explore the anti-hyperglycaemic potential of C. roseus and P. afra in the context of their traditional use by South African healers. By examining the existing literature, we aim to provide insights into the potential of these medicinal plants as alternative and complementary treatments for diabetes management. As the global burden of diabetes continues to increase, it is critical to explore cost-effective and accessible treatments, particularly in low-income countries where healthcare resources are limited. This review contributes to the understanding of traditional medicinal plants' potential in the management of diabetes and provides a basis for further research into their use as alternative treatments.Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), the Chemical Technology Station, the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa and DSI/NWU Preclinical Drug development Platform.http://www.elsevier.com/locate/sajb2024-10-14hj2024PhysiologySDG-03:Good heatlh and well-bein