Characterization, Formulation and Evaluation of the Suspending Properties of Achi (Brachystegia eurycoma) Seed Gum In Sulphamethoxazole Suspension

The purpose of the study is to search for new, cheap, readily available and effective excipient for suspension which can effectively compete with standard suspending agents like Acacia and Tragacanth gums. The suspending properties of Brachystegia eurycoma (Fabaceae) gum were evaluated and compared with Acacia and Tragacanth at concentrations 0.2%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0% and 3.0% in sulphamethoxazole suspension. Sulphamethoxazole was chosen as a model drug because it is an in-diffusible powder and require among other thing a suspending agent. Physicochemical and Organoleptic analyses were carried out on the pure gum extract. Sedimentation volume, re-dispersion, crystal growth and flow rate were employed as evaluation parameters of the suspension. The values obtained were used as basis for comparison. The gum extract was found to have better suspending properties at concentrations evaluated. The gum extract at high concentrations has a high viscosity and can be used as stabilizer where high viscosity is desired and can also serve as thickening agent. Therefore, the gum can be used as an alternative suspending agent to both Acacia and Tragacanth gums.