Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics (JDDT)
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Pistacia vera: Bridging Unani Wisdom and Modern Nutraceutical Science: A Comprehensive Review
No full textBackground: Pistacia vera L. (pistachio), a member of the Anacardiaceae family, has been traditionally valued in Unani medicine as a tonic for the brain, heart, and reproductive system. Modern research increasingly supports its diverse nutraceutical and pharmacological properties.
Objective: This review aims to integrate traditional Unani insights with contemporary scientific evidence on the morphology, nutritional composition, therapeutic applications, and pharmacological activities of Pistacia vera.
Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus, alongside classical Unani texts including Khazāʾin al-Advia, Muḥīt-i-Aʿẓam, and Makhzan al-Mufradāt. Data on phytochemistry, temperament, dosage, traditional uses, and pharmacological effects were critically analysed and synthesised.
Results: Pistachio kernels contain 55–60% oil, 15–21% protein, 14–18% carbohydrates, ~10% fibre, essential amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins (B6, E, K, folate), minerals (Cu, Mn, Zn, Mg), and polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids. Traditional Unani literature highlights its role as Muqawwī-i-Dimāgh (brain tonic), Muqawwī-i-Qalb (cardiac tonic), and Muqawwī-i-Bāh (aphrodisiac). Modern studies demonstrate neuroprotective, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, bronchodilator, anti-melanogenic, acetylcholinesterase inhibitory, and anxiolytic activities. Mechanisms include antioxidant effects, modulation of glucose transporters, anti-inflammatory pathways, and multitargeted organ protection.
Conclusion: Pistacia vera bridges Unani wisdom and modern pharmacology, validating its therapeutic potential as a nutrient-rich functional food. Future clinical trials, standardisation of extracts, and mechanistic studies are needed to translate preclinical findings into human applications, establishing pistachio as an integrative nutraceutical for brain, cardiac, metabolic, and reproductive health.
Keywords: Pistacia vera, pistachio, Unani medicine, nutraceutical, pharmacological activities, neuroprotection, cardiometabolic health
Oxidative stress and neuronal dysfunction induced by combined low-dose exposure to abamectin and cypermethrin
No full textBackground : The increase in agricultural production has been accompanied by intensive pesticide use, leading to chronic environmental contamination. In Togo, residues exceeding regulatory limits have been detected in vegetable crops, particularly abamectin (ABM) and cypermethrin (CYP). ABM, derived from Streptomyces avermitilis, acts on GABA-gated chloride channels and crosses the blood–brain barrier, inducing oxidative stress and neurotoxic damage. CYP, a synthetic pyrethroid, targets voltage-gated sodium channels, resulting in abnormal neuronal discharges and excessive production of reactive oxygen species. While their acute effects are well known, the subchronic impacts of low-dose exposure, especially in combination, remain poorly understood. In this context, the present study aims to evaluate the subchronic neurotoxic effects of combined exposure to abamectin and cypermethrin, administered at realistic doses, in rats.
Methods : This study evaluated the subchronic neurotoxicity of ABM and CYP, administered individually or in combination for 90 days to 40 Wistar rats divided into five groups: control, ABM (0.3 mg/kg/day), CYP (0.7 mg/kg/day), mixture M1 (ABM 0.3 + CYP 0.7 mg/kg/day), and mixture M2 (ABM 0.6 + CYP 1.4 mg/kg/day).
Results : The results revealed that exposure, particularly to mixtures, decreased brain protein levels, significantly reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase, and markedly increased malondialdehyde levels compared to groups exposed to a single pesticide.. Glutathione S-transferase activity was less affected, but caspase-3 was activated in M1 and M2 groups, indicating apoptosis induction. Histological analyses in M1 and M2 groups showed pronounced hypocellularity associated with cellular hypertrophy and necrotic foci compared with controls.
Conclusions : The observed synergistic effect highlights an increased toxicological risk, underscoring the need for further mechanistic studies and appropriate regulatory measures. Under environmental conditions where combined exposures are frequent, these results highlight the importance of considering the impact of mixtures rather than isolated compounds.
Keywords: Abamectin, Cypermethrin, Oxidative stress, Pesticide mixture, low-dos
Formulation and In Vitro Release Studies of Emulgels Containing Shea Butter and Diclofenac Diethylamine
No full textShea butter is a raw material widely used in cosmetology. Its use in the pharmaceutical sector is becoming increasingly popular. As it’s commonly produced in Burkina Faso, it can help reduce medicine costs. Several dermatological formulations (creams, body milks, ointments) have been developed in our laboratories in Burkina Faso. However, some active ingredients are not compatible with those bases due to their hydrophilic-lipophilic balance. The emulgel form can thus be a solution. Moreover, this type of dermatological base has not yet been reported in the literature on shea butter. The main objective of our study was to develop an emulgel based on shea butter, and diclofenac diethylamine was chosen as the active ingredient. Emulgel formulations were prepared with shea butter, carbomer 980, or arabic gum and diclofenac diethylamine. Physical quality control was performed against the Diclofenac Reference emulgel. The better emulgel formulations were tested for in vitro release of diclofenac diethylamine, compared with the Diclofenac Reference emulgel. The formulated emulgel was homogeneous, whitish in colour. The pH ranged from 6.53 to 6.71. The emulgel made with 0.5% carbomer 980 had a viscosity close to that of the Diclofenac Reference emulgel. Their diclofenac diethylamine content conformed to standards (99.47% and 100.55%). The release rate of these formulations after 6 hours ranged from 58.66% to 66.26%. The diclofenac reference emulgel had a lower rate of 44.02%. Locally produced shea butter can thus be used to formulate an emulgel incorporating diclofenac diethylamine as the active ingredient.
Keywords: Diclofenac diethylamine, emulgel, shea butter, carbomer, arabic gum
Agile Business Management in the Pharmaceutical Industry
No full textThis mini-review examines the pharmaceutical industry’s shift from rigid, linear operating models toward agile business management. Drivers include personalised medicine, global health crises (e.g., pandemics), and increasing supply-chain complexity. We summarise how agile principles are applied across the value chain, particularly in supply chain, manufacturing, and project management and how enabling technologies (e.g., IoT) support these applications. We also highlight barriers specific to highly regulated environments, including GMP-driven documentation and traceability, cultural inertia, and capability gaps. Finally, we discuss pragmatic adoption strategies, emphasising hybrid models (e.g., Agile–Stage-Gate) and selective implementation of agile practices. Pure agile adoption is often constrained in regulated settings; however, hybridisation and targeted practices can improve responsiveness, resilience, and long-term performance.
Keywords: Agile business management; Supply chain agility; Regulatory compliance; Hybrid governance models; Personalised medicin
Integration of Unani Therapy (Ḥijāma bi’l Sharṭ) in Vasomotor Rhinitis: A Case Report
No full textVasomotor rhinitis (VMR) is a form of non-allergic rhinitis that clinically resembles nasal allergy but lacks an IgE-mediated basis. It is characterized by nasal obstruction, rhinorrhoea, sneezing, and mucosal hyperreactivity to nonspecific triggers such as temperature fluctuations, dust, or smoke. Conventional management relies on antihistamines and decongestants, which offer only symptomatic relief without addressing the underlying imbalance. In the Unani system of medicine, Nazla Ḥārr is considered analogous to VMR, attributed to humoral imbalance and autonomic dysfunction. Classical physicians including Galen and Zakariya al-Rāzī recommended Ḥijāma bi’l Sharṭ (wet cupping) at the nape of the neck (Nuqra/Qafā) for its role in evacuating morbid humors, reducing inflammation, and relieving symptoms such as sneezing and nasal irritation. This case report describes a 28-year-old female with a two-year history of recurrent nasal congestion, sneezing, and rhinorrhoea, unresponsive to standard pharmacotherapy. The patient underwent weekly sessions of wet cupping for three weeks at the nape of the neck, following standard procedural protocols. The Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS) was used to monitor symptom severity objectively. At baseline, TNSS was 11/12, indicating severe disease. Following intervention, TNSS progressively improved to 8 after the first session, 5 after the second, and 1 after the third session, reflecting near-complete resolution of symptoms. No adverse effects were reported. This case highlights the therapeutic potential of Ḥijāma bi’l Sharṭ in managing vasomotor rhinitis by balancing humors, modulating autonomic function, and reducing mucosal hyperreactivity. Larger controlled studies are warranted to validate these findings.
Keywords: Ḥijāma bi’l Sharṭ, Ilaj bi’l Tadbeer, Unani concept, Vasomotor rhiniti
Hematoprotective Properties of Polyherbal Formulation on Streptozocin-Induced Diabetic Wistar Rats
No full textTo treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, the study focuses on polyherbal anti-diabetic extracts from several plants, administered at varying dosages. Ayurvedic medicines are widely accepted due to their efficacy, safety, affordability, ubiquity, and acceptance. Because polyherbal medicines contain glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, and other compounds with diverse modes of action, they have long been used to treat diabetes worldwide. This study examined the Antidiabetic and haematological effects of a polyherbal formulation (PHF) in streptozotocin (STZ)- induced diabetic rats.
Objective: To examine the antidiabetic effects of Polyherbal formulation on haematological parameters in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.
Method: In this study, Wistar albino rats (n=6) were split up into five groups. Streptozotocin was injected intraperitoneally to male Wistar rats to cause diabetes. After being confirmed diabetic, animals were treated orally with distilled water or extracts at 200 or 400 mg/kg body weight daily for 30 days.
Results: Blood glucose levels were significantly reduced by the extract, with the greatest reduction observed at 400 mg/kg body weight. After extract administration at both doses, the quantities of red blood cells, white blood cells, and their functional indices all increased considerably. Also, in diabetic rats, water and feed consumption were intensely decreased, and weight loss was minimised at both dosages.
Keywords: Diabetis, Polyherbal formulation, Streptozotocin, Wistar Albino Rats, Haematological parameters
Phytochemical Profile, TLC Profiling and Antioxidant Potential of Prunus Avium
No full textThis work looks at the Chromatographic content of the hydro-alcoholic extract of Prunus avium leaf and its antioxidant activity. The presence of essential metabolites was confirmed by preliminary phytochemical screening for glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, volatile oils, and tannins, indicating the plant\u27s ethnomedicinal value. To maximise the separation and visibility of constituent substances, TLC was done using three solvent systems of varied polarity. Under 254 nm and 365 nm UV light, distinct, well-resolved bands were observed, indicating a different range of polar and mid-polar phytochemicals. Further antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays. The extensive chromatographic and phytochemical profiles obtained in the study highlight the potential of P. avium as a valid phytotherapeutic candidate, setting the stage for future bioactive-guided reclusion and anticancer testing.
Keywords: Prunus avium, sweet cherry, Chromatographic content, TLC analysis, hydroalcoholic extract
Formulation and Evaluation of Phytosomal Gel of Hesperidin
No full textBackground: Hesperidin possesses potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity but exhibits limited topical efficacy due to poor solubility and low skin permeability. Phytosomal systems can enhance dermal delivery of such phytoconstituents.
Materials and Methods: Hesperidin–phospholipid phytosomes were prepared by the thin-film hydration method and optimized based on particle size, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. The optimized formulation (F6) was incorporated into a Carbopol 934 gel and evaluated for physicochemical properties. In-vitro diffusion studies were performed using Franz diffusion cells, while FTIR analysis and release kinetics were also assessed.
Results: The optimized phytosomes showed nanosized vesicles (168 nm), stable zeta potential, and high entrapment efficiency (85.52%). The phytosomal gel exhibited acceptable physicochemical characteristics and sustained drug release, achieving 95.6% release within 8 h. FTIR confirmed compatibility, and drug release followed the Higuchi model (R² = 0.985).
Conclusion: The hesperidin phytosomal gel enhanced solubility, skin permeation, and sustained drug release, demonstrating its potential for effective topical antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapy.
Keywords: Hesperidin; Phospholipid; Thin-film hydration method; Phytosomes; Topical gel; In-vitro drug release studies
Hot Melt Extrusion: A Viable Option for Implementing Continuous Manufacturing in the Pharmaceutical Industry
No full textIn recent years, hot melt extrusion (HME) has been most widely investigated for developing pharmaceutical medications. HME is a single-step manufacturing process and is suitable for the extrusion of drug-loaded filaments, films, or patches, and granules. The filaments can be processed as pellets or can be processed into tablets or capsules. The HME can be coupled with various downstream processing equipments and process analytical technology (PAT) tools for transforming into a continuous manufacturing line. Establishing a continuous manufacturing line will ensure product quality and will benefit both the industries and the patient population. In fact, the HME can also be paired with additive manufacturing platforms such as fused deposition modeling (FDM) for the fabrication of on-demand and patient-centric medications. Even complex medications can be easily manufactured using an additive manufacturing approach. Despite various advantages of HME, a few limitations, such as the availability of suitable materials and a more in-depth understanding of the process, is still warranted. However, compared with other manufacturing approaches, the HME-based continuous manufacturing is a viable option for the pharmaceutical industry.
Keywords: hot melt extrusion, solubility enhancement, continuous manufacturing, additive manufacturing, 3D printing
A Comprehensive Review on Nanostructured Lipid Carriers
No full textNanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) mark a pivotal evolution in lipid-based drug delivery, surpassing the constraints of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) to optimize therapeutic performance. Formulated with a mix of solid and liquid lipids, NLCs disrupt the rigid crystalline structure of SLNs, facilitating enhanced drug encapsulation, greater stability, and tailored release kinetics for both hydrophobic and hydrophilic compounds. This review thoroughly examines NLCs, detailing their composition, scalable production methods, and assessment techniques. Employing biodegradable lipids and surfactants, NLCs enable environmentally sustainable manufacturing without organic solvents, ensuring biocompatibility and safety. Their adaptability supports a wide range of biomedical uses, such as targeted drug delivery, gene therapy, and vaccine development, enhancing patient adherence and clinical outcomes. The review also explores recent patents and innovative advancements, highlighting NLCs’ potential to transform pharmaceutical formulations. Despite obstacles like long-term stability and regulatory challenges, continuous progress in lipid nanotechnology establishes NLCs as a robust platform for next-generation drug carriers. This work illuminates the interplay of stability, functionality, and safety in NLC development, providing insights into their revolutionary impact on modern pharmaceutics and their capacity to meet unaddressed clinical demands.
Keywords: Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), lipid-based drug delivery, targeted drug delivery, gene therapy and vaccine developmen