Evaluation of Abelmoschus Esculentus Mucilage as Suspending Agent in Paracetamol Suspension

Some excipients are currently available for the formulation of Pharmaceutical suspensions. The purpose of this study is to search for a cheap and effective natural excipient that can be used as an effective alternative for the formulation of pharmaceutical suspensions. The mucilage from the pods of Abelmoschus esculentus was subjected to preformulation study for evaluation of its safety and suitability for use as suspending agent. The mucilage extracted is devoid of toxicity. Suspensions of paracetamol were prepared and compared with different concentrations (1%, 2%, 3% and 4% w/v) of Abelmoschus esculentus mucilage, sodium CMC and tragacanth gum. Their sedimentation profile, redispersibility, degree of flocculation and rheolgical behavior were compared. The mucilage was found to be a superior suspending agent than tragacanth and is comparable to sodium CMC. Studies indicate that the mucilage of Abelmoschus esculentus may be used as a pharmaceutical adjuvant and as a suspending agent at 4%w/v, depending on its suspending ability and the stability of the resulting suspension.