ISOLATION AND RELEASE RETARDANT PROPERTIES OF A PLANT GUM OBTAINED FROM AYOYO

Abstract

Ayoyo gum is a natural gum from the leaves of the plant Corchorusolitorius. The gum was extracted, characterized and evaluated as a release retardant in comparison with gelatin in paracetamol tablet formulations. Compressional properties of the formulations were analyzed using density measurements. The mechanical properties of the formulations were assessed using crushing strength and percentage friability. The drug release properties of the tablets formed were assessed using disintegration and dissolution times. The yield of Ayoyo gum was within the limit. The gum showed superiority over gelatin in swelling and hydration capacities. All the tablets formulated with Ayoyo passed the compendial requirements for tablets. Tablets produced with Ayoyo gum showed higher crushing strength, friability, disintegration and dissolution times, and lower friability, at higher concentration it retarded the release of paracetamol.

Ayoyo gum can be used as a substitute to gelatin in paracetamol tablet formulations and depending on the desired onset of action of medicament Ayoyo gum may be used as a binder in formulation of sustained release tablets.