Medical Sains : Jurnal Ilmiah Kefarmasian

NETWORK PHARMACOLOGY ANALYSIS OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS OF RED BETEL (Piper crocatum Ruiz dan Pav) STEM AS AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENT

Putri Kharisma Novita Sari — 2025-11-24

Inflammation is a mechanism in the body's defense system that occurs through the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. However, inflammation needs to be controlled because it triggers excessive production of inflammatory mediators that cause tissue damage and disease progression. Various types of first-line anti-inflammatory therapy drugs have potential for adverse side effects such as anemia, hypertension, and immunosuppression, so alternative anti-inflammatory agents are needed that are considered safe and effective. The red betel plant (Piper crocatum Ruiz and Pav) is known to contain secondary metabolites such as sesquiterpenes, aldehydes, phytosterols, and sterols that are already known as anti-inflammatory agents. This study aims to determine the anti-inflammatory potential of the red betel plant based on pharmacological network analysis. The test compounds are secondary metabolites that were successfully detected in the red betel stem such as caryophyllene, octadecadienal, stigmasterol, and sitosterol. Proteins related to anti-inflammatory activity obtained from GeneCards, proteins interacting with test compounds predicted by SwissTargetPrediction, and the results of the intersection of both types of proteins were further analyzed using STRING with Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment methods.

GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed involvement in NF-?B, IL-17, PI3K/AKT, and TNF signaling pathways, with 16 key genes related to anti-inflammatory activity targets. The main target proteins of caryophyllene and stigmasterol being HSP90AA1 and STAT3, respectively, while octadecadienal and sitosterol showed NFKB1 as the same main target protein. The results provide a scientific data for the use of these secondary metabolites as anti-inflammatory agents.

FLAVONOID CONTENT AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF Camellia sinensis KOMBUCHA ETHYL ACETATE EXTRACT AND CREAM FORMULATION

Maulidwina Bethasari — 2025-11-24

Kombucha, a fermented tea beverage made using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), is gaining interest due to its bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant properties. These natural antioxidants, derived from the tea leaves of Camellia sinensis, may offer functional benefits when applied in topical formulations such as creams. This study aimed to determine the flavonoid concentration in kombucha extracts after fermentation for 7 and 14 days and to evaluate the antioxidant activity of a cream formulation containing kombucha extract. Kombucha extract was obtained using a liquid-liquid extraction method with ethyl acetate as the solvent. Antioxidant activity was measured using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay, where a lower IC₅₀ value indicates stronger antioxidant activity. The results showed that The total flavonoid content in the kombucha extract fermented for 7 days (H7) was 125.79 ± 0.192 mg QE/g, while the extract fermented for 14 days (H14) contained 35 ± 0.333 mg QE/g. Antioxidant activity testing revealed IC₅₀ values of 6.84 for the H7 extract and 7.48 for the H14 extract, indicating that the 7-day fermented kombucha had a higher antioxidant potential. These findings suggest that fermentation duration significantly affects the flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity of kombucha extracts, which may influence their efficacy when incorporated into topical formulations, such as creams. This study highlights the potential of kombucha extracts as natural antioxidant agents for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.

Keywords: antioxidant, Camellia sinensis, flavonoid, kombucha, SCOBY

REVIEW: STABILITY OF SOLID SNEDDS FORMULA IN VARIOUS EXCIPIENTS AND MANUFACTURING METHOD

Rodhia Ulfa — 2025-12-16

The stability of Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SNEDDS) remains a significant challenge in oral drug formulation, as liquid SNEDDS often suffer from leakage and chemical instability during storage. Transforming these systems into solid SNEDDS (S-SNEDDS) has emerged as a promising approach to combine the enhanced solubility and bioavailability of nanoemulsified systems with the physical and chemical stability of solid dosage forms. This review comprehensively examines the stability profiles of S-SNEDDS formulations produced using various solidifying agents and manufacturing methods. The discussion focuses on adsorption to solid carriers, spray drying, and freeze-drying techniques while comparing the effects of different adsorbents, such as amorphous silica derivatives Aerosil, Sylysia, and Neusilin, on the stability outcomes. Literature was systematically gathered from databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, covering original studies published between 2011 and 2023 that reported short- and long-term stability. The synthesis of the reviewed data indicates that adsorption onto solid carriers, particularly silica-based excipients, provides the most stable S-SNEDDS formulations. These preparations maintained consistent globule size, drug content, dissolution profile, and absence of phase separation under accelerated and long-term storage conditions. Factors such as high oil absorption capacity and porosity of the adsorbent were key determinants of the flowability and stability of the resulting powder. In conclusion, this review highlights that silica-based adsorbents, especially Sylysia and Neusilin, confer superior stability to S-SNEDDS compared with other materials ...

THE IMPACT OF HAZARDOUS COSMETICS ON SKIN HEALTH: HYDROQUINONE CONTENT IN ONLINE WHITENING CREAMS

Indri Astuti Handayani — 2025-12-16

Hydroquinone is an effective skin-lightening agent; however, its use in cosmetics has been banned by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) because of health risks such as skin irritation, exogenous ochronosis, and potential carcinogenic effects. Despite these regulations, numerous illegal skin-whitening products containing hydroquinone are still widely available, particularly through online marketplaces. Therefore, reliable testing methods are essential for detecting hydroquinone in skin-whitening creams. This study aimed to identify hydroquinone in whitening creams obtained from various online sources using a qualitative test with Potassium Iodide (KI) as a reagent. This study employed a simple qualitative testing method using a 0.5 N KI reagent. A 2-gram sample of the whitening cream was dissolved in chloroform, followed by the addition of a 3:1 mixture of HCl and HNO?. The filtrate was then tested by adding the KI reagent, where the formation of an orange-red or yellow precipitate indicated the presence of hydroquinonethe presence of hydroquinone. The results showed that one sample from an online marketplace tested positive for hydroquinone, whereas the other samples showed negative results. The product containing hydroquinone lacked a BPOM registration number, indicating that unregulated cosmetic products continue to circulate without adequate oversight. This study confirms the prevalence of illegal whitening creams containing hydroquinone. The uncontrolled use of hydroquinone poses significant health risks, necessitating stricter regulatory enforcement by the BPOM and increased consumer awareness to ensure the safe selection of cosmetic products.

Keywords: Hydroquinone, whitening cream, Potassium Iodide, BPOM regulation, cosmetic safety.

CHARACTERIZATION OF FLAKES MADE FROM BANGLE (Zingiber cassumunar Roxb.) RHIZOME AND RICE BRAN AS ANTIHYPERLIPIDEMIC FUNCTIONAL FOOD

Nurkhasanah Mahfudh — 2025-12-29

Bangle rhizome and white rice bran have antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant activities and have high potential to be used as active ingredients for antihyperlipidemic functional foods, such as flakes. This study aimed to determine the formulation of flakes made from bangle rhizome flour (BR), white rice bran flour (WRB), and sweet corn flour (SC) and to obtain the best formula based on hedonic values and chemical characteristics. Flakes were formulated into four formulas determined for the amount of BR and WRB (BR 0 g, WRB 80 g [F0]; BR 2.5 g, WRB 77.5 g [F1]; BR 5 g, WRB 75 g [F2]; BR 7.5 g, WRB 72.5 g [F3]). The flakes were evaluated through a hedonic test using a five-point hedonic scale and proximate test (moisture, ash, fat, protein, carbohydrate, and crude fiber content). The results of the proximate test were reviewed according to the criteria for antihyperlipidemic functional food and the quality requirements of SNI 2886:2015 (Extruded Snacks). Hedonic and proximate test data were statistically analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). F3 was the finest flake, containing 4.00% water, 6.08% ash, 16.92% fat, 12.68% protein, 60.32% total carbohydrates, and 11.11% crude fiber. Flakes F3 were organoleptically acceptable to the hedonic test panelists, with a total mean hedonic value of 3.72.

Keywords: Bangle, flakes, hedonic determination, proximate determination, rice bran

COCRYSTAL FORMATION OF EFAVIRENZ-MALEIC ACID VIA ULTRASOUND-ASSISTED SOLUTION CO-CRYSTALLIZATION METHOD: CHARACTERIZATION AND MECHANICAL PROPERTY EVALUATION

Ryan Novia Khaeranny — 2025-12-29

Efavirenz (EFV), a crucial drug for HIV infection, possesses unfavorable mechanical properties that complicate tablet production via direct compression. This study aimed to improve the mechanical properties, such as flowability and tabletability, of efavirenz (EFV) through co-crystal formation with maleic acid (MLT). The EFV-MLT co-crystal was prepared using the Ultrasound-assisted Solution Cocrystallization (USSC) method, employing distilled water as the solvent. To confirm its properties, the resultant co-crystal was characterized using polarizing microscopy, Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The mechanical properties of the co-crystals, including the compressibility index, Hausner ratio, tensile strength, and elastic recovery, were evaluated. Comprehensive characterization confirmed successful co-crystal formation using polarizing microscopy (revealing smaller needle-shaped crystals), PXRD (showing new diffraction peaks), DSC (indicating a lower melting point), and FTIR (demonstrating a wave shift). The findings of this study clearly demonstrate that the formation of EFV-MLT co-crystals via the USSC method significantly improves their mechanical properties compared with those of pure EFV.

Keywords: evafirenz, maleic acid, co-crystals, mechanical properties, USSC

DIFLUNISAL TRANSETHOSOMAL GEL FOR TOPICAL DRUG DELIVERY: FORMULATION AND CHARACTERIZATION

Indah Aprianti — 2025-12-29

Transethosomes are modern vesicular systems designed to enhance the transdermal delivery of various types of drugs, including lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs. This system features a flexible and easily deformable membrane resulting from the combination of phospholipids, ethanol, and surfactants as edge activators. Diflunisal, a lipophilic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug classified in the BCS class II, requires a delivery system that can overcome the limitations of permeation through the skin. The objective of the present research work is to develop a diflunisal-loaded transethosomal system, incorporate it into gel formulations, and characterize the developed transethosomal gel to optimize its applicability for topical delivery. Diflunisal transethosomes were produced by thin film hydration and sonication using Phospholipon 90G and Span 80 as edge activators in 30% ethanol. The vesicles were characterized based on their size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, and polydispersity index. The transethosome suspension was incorporated into Carbopol 934 gel at 0.5%, 1%, and 2%. The gels were tested for organoleptic properties, homogeneity, pH, viscosity, and spreadability. Transethosomes were nanosized (75.74 ± 1 nm), monodisperse (PDI of 0.244 ± 0.014), exhibited high entrapment efficiency (76.66 ± 0.99%), and demonstrated stability with a zeta potential of –32.67 ± 0.38 mV; gel incorporation maintained vesicle integrity. Increasing the gel-base concentration increases viscosity and reduces spreadability. However, 1% carbopol 934 concentration provided the optimal balance, offering the best physicochemical properties, including ideal pH (5.89 ± 0.06), spreadability (6.45 ± 0.06 cm), and viscosity (236770 ± 41.33 cPs), making it most suitable for topical delivery.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW: THE SYNERGISM OF CONVENTIONAL ANTI CANCER AGENTS WITH SECONDARY METABOLITE COMPOUNDS OF MEDICINAL PLANTS FOR AS ANTI BREAST CANCER

Ahda Maulida — 2025-12-30

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. Immediate treatment is required for this condition. However, undesirable side effects can occur during conventional cancer treatment. Secondary metabolite compounds derived from plants are the most popular alternative treatments for reducing side effects. Various medicinal plant compounds have been identified that exhibit anti-BC properties. This review aimed to summarize the research on the synergistic effects of secondary metabolite compounds of medicinal plants-drug interactions, with a focus on BC treatment. The method of this study was carried out systematically by searching articles from databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct for original research articles and using the keywords "drug synergism, herbal, and breast cancer treatment". The potential of combining herbal medicines or natural products with conventional drugs has been systematically explored in several studies. The screening results showed that 13 studies on the synergistic effect of chemical compounds from medicinal plants have a significant BC therapeutic effect when used with conventional drugs. Most studies have been conducted in vitro, but there is also one clinical trial in which treatment with the curcumin-paclitaxel combination was superior to paclitaxel monotherapy. Exploring the synergistic effects of combinations is technically demanding and complex, including in the context of drug or herb interactions, but is likely to provide significant progress in BC treatment. In conclusion, all secondary metabolites of medicinal plants listed in this review have synergistic effects with BC drugs.

Keywords: Synergism, conventional drugs, secondary metabolite compounds, BC treatment

FORMULATION AND PHYSICAL QUALITY TESTING OF SOLID SOAP COMBINATION OF CITRONELA OIL (Cymbopogon nardus) WITH EXTRACT BAJAKAH TAMPALA (Spatholobus littoralis Hassk) AGAINST BACTERIA Staphylococcus aureus

Putri Regina — 2025-12-30

to the skin. Citronella oil and Bajakah Tampala are plants that possess antibacterial activity and can be used as raw materials for the production of solid antibacterial soap. This study aimed to determine the physical quality characteristics of citronella oil solid soap with a combination of Bajakah Tampala extract and perform an antibacterial activity test. The method employed was experimental, involving the formulation of solid soap and several preliminary tests such as organoleptic testing, pH testing, homogeneity testing, and foam stability testing. Antibacterial activity tests were conducted using the disc diffusion method. The results of this study indicate that the addition of citronella oil and Bajakah Tampala extract to solid soap influenced the antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, exhibiting a very strong inhibitory effect in Formula 3 at 100%. In the physical quality testing of the solid soap formulation, the results were in accordance with the Indonesian National Standard (SNI). The conclusion of this research is that the physical quality characterization of the soap is in line with established standards, and the solid soap formulation has proven antibacterial activity.

Keywords: Citronella, Bajakah tampala, Staphylococcus aureus, Solid soap

LITERATURE REVIEW : BENEFIT OF TOMATO PLANT (Solanum lycopersicum) IN HERBAL PRODUCT FORMULATION

Ananda Ayu Chandra — 2025-12-31

Tomatoes are known to treat skin inflammation, acne, and hard to heal wounds. Tomatoes contain various chemical compounds, such as phenolic compounds (phenolic acids and flavonoids), carotenoids (alpha and beta carotene, and lycopene), vitamins (ascorbic acid and vitamin A), and glycoalkaloids (tomatin). The purpose of this study was to provide information about the potential activity of tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) as active ingredients that can be used in herbal product preparations. This study used the Boolean System method. Based on the results of the literature search, 99 original articles were obtained from two databases (Sinta and Google Scholar). The literature articles were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria with the publication year 2015-2025 based on the PRISMA guidelines so that the total search results for articles that were complete and considered suitable for use were 58 articles. The results of the literature review show that tomato plants can be formulated as preparations such as sunscreen lotion, cream, liquid soap, hand and body lotion, serum, instant drink powder, cut wound gel, and sunscreen cream, showing good effectiveness and stability. Although there is potential toxicity at high doses, most research results indicate that the use of tomatoes in topical and oral preparations is relatively safe, thus supporting their use as natural active ingredients in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.

Keywords: Pharmacology; Formulation; Herbal Product; Tomato; Toxicology

ACUTE TOXICITY TEST OF ROBUSTA COFFEE LEAVES EXTRACT USING BRINE SHRIMP LETHALITY TEST (BSLT)

Sinta Purnamasari — 2025-12-31

Robusta coffee leaves (Coffea canephora) are known to contain secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, and steroids, which have the potential to exhibit pharmacological bioactivity. However, the toxicity profile of these leaves has not been widely reported. This study aims to determine the acute toxicity of the ethanol extract of robusta coffee leaves using the Brine Shrimp Lethality Test (BSLT) method. Extraction was carried out through the maceration method using 96% ethanol, followed by ethanol-free tests and phytochemical screening. The BSLT was performed on Artemia salina L larvae. with various concentrations of extracts, and a Lethal Concentration value of 50% (LC50) was calculated based on larval mortality after 24 hours. The results showed that the ethanol extract of robusta coffee leaves contained flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, and steroids, with an LC50 value of 139.378 ppm, which was classified as moderately toxic. These findings suggest that the ethanol extract of robusta coffee leaves has the potential for acute toxicity according to the BSLT method and can be used as a basis for further research on the exploration of cytotoxic activity.

Keywords: Coffea canephora, BSLT, Artemia salina L., acute toxicity, LC50

THE INFLUENCE OF PERCEIVED EASE OF USE AND USEFULNESS ON INTENTION AND SATISFACTION OF PHARMACY MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS: A CASE STUDY IN CIREBON REGENCY

Tatang Ruhiyat — 2025-12-31

This study aimed to examine the influence of Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) and Perceived Usefulness (PU) on Behavioral Intention (BI) and User Satisfaction (US) of Pharmacy Management Information Systems (PMIS) in Cirebon Regency. A quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design was employed in 29 pharmacies that had been using PMIS for at least one year. The research instrument consisted of 20 items grouped into four variables: PEOU, PU, BI, and US. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability testing, and multiple linear regression. The results indicate that PEOU significantly influences PU (? = 0.727, p < 0.001; R² = 0.561). PU significantly influenced BI (? = 0.800, p < 0.001), whereas PEOU did not show a significant direct effect (p = 0.229). BI had a strong positive effect on US (? = 0.967, p < 0.001; R² = 0.893). All variables demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach’s Alpha > 0.7). These findings confirm the applicability of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and DeLone & McLean IS Success Model in the pharmacy context. PMIS developers should enhance perceived usefulness through relevant features, provide continuous training to improve ease of use, and maintain user engagement to optimize satisfaction.

Keywords: Perceived Ease of Use, Perceived Usefulness, Behavioral Intention, User Satisfaction, Pharmacy Management Information Systems

EVALUATION OF Limonia acidissima EXTRACT OINTMENT: ANTIBACTERIAL EFFICACY AND TYROSINASE INHIBITION POTENTIAL

Asep Roni — 2025-12-31

One local Indonesian plant with potential as an herbal remedy for skin problems, particularly acne, is the kawista fruit (Limonia acidissima Groff). This fruit contains active compounds such as alkaloids, saponins, tannins, and flavonoids, which act as antibacterial agents. This study aimed to develop an ointment with kawista fruit extract as the active ingredient that meets good physical characteristics and to test its tyrosinase enzyme inhibition activity. This experimental study covered the processes of formulation, physical evaluation, and antibacterial activity testing of the ointment. The thick kawista fruit extract used was obtained from Subang Regency, West Java, using a reflux method, as described in a previous study. The extract was formulated into three concentrations: FI (2.5%), FII (5%), and FIII (7.5%). The results showed that all the ointment preparations had good physical properties. The antibacterial inhibition test against Propionibacterium acnes showed the highest effectiveness, with an inhibition zone of 20.9 mm, which is categorized as very strong antibacterial activity in the third formula. The tyrosinase enzyme inhibition results were inactive, with an IC₅₀ of 24,935 ppm.

Keywords: Acne Ointment, Limonia acidissima, Tyrosinase.

EVALUATION OF CONCOMITANT USE OF ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS AND HERBAL MEDICINES AMONG HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS AT A REGIONAL HOSPITAL IN KUNINGAN REGENCY

Nur Azizah — 2025-12-31

The concomitant use of herbal medicines with antihypertensive drugs is common among hypertensive patients, particularly in settings where traditional medicine is widely practiced. However, evidence regarding its clinical implications in hospital-based outpatient settings remains limited. This study aimed to describe the patterns of concomitant antihypertensive–herbal medicine use among hypertensive outpatients and examine its association with blood pressure values and reported adverse effects in a regional hospital setting. A descriptive observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted among hypertensive outpatients at RSUD 45 Kuningan in Indonesia. Sociodemographic characteristics, antihypertensive drug regimens, herbal medicine use, and reported adverse effects were collected through structured interviews and medical record reviews by trained interviewers. Blood pressure values recorded at the study visit were compared with the most recent values documented in the medical records prior to the visit. Descriptive and comparative analyses were performed to explore the associations between treatment patterns and blood pressure parameters. More than half of the participants reported concomitant use of herbal medicines. Standard antihypertensive therapy was associated with lower systolic blood pressure values, whereas diastolic blood pressure values were lower in patients using herbal medicines concomitantly. Most patients reported no adverse effects, and no significant associations were observed between sociodemographic factors and concomitant use of herbal products. In conclusion, concomitant herbal medicine use among hypertensive outpatients was common and generally well tolerated; however, its clinical benefits remain uncertain ...

ECO-FRIENDLY SYNTHESIS AND ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIAL OF IRON NANOPARTICLES MEDIATED by AVOCADO SEED EXTRACT

Anggraeni In Oktavia — 2025-12-31

The contribution of oxidative stress to chronic diseases has prompted the exploration of sustainable antioxidant agents derived from natural sources. This study aimed to develop and characterize iron nanoparticles (FeNPs-A) synthesized through a green approach using aqueous avocado (Persea americana) seed extract as a biogenic reducing and stabilizing agent. The formation of FeNPs-A was initially identified through visual observation of the colloidal color, followed by UV-Visible spectrophotometric analysis to determine the absorption wavelength. Changes in the hydroxyl functional groups of the extract and FeNPs-A were further examined using FTIR spectroscopy, and the antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH assay. The synthesis process was visually indicated by a distinct color transition from brownish yellow to deep black, confirming the reduction of Fe³? ions. UV-Vis analysis exhibited a characteristic absorption peak at 282 nm, validating nanoparticle formation through surface plasmon resonance (SPR). FTIR spectra showed significant shifts in O-H, C=O, and C-O stretching vibrations and the appearance of a Fe-O band at 399-433 cm?¹, indicating the participation of hydroxyl and carbonyl groups in nanoparticle nucleation and stabilization. Antioxidant assessment revealed an IC?? value of 78.20 ± 12.44 µg/mL, demonstrating substantial free radical scavenging capacity, with inhibition percentages increasing from 65.83 ± 4.08% to 91.55 ± 0.92% as the concentration increased from 312.5 to 5000 ppm.

Keywords: Antioxidant activity, DPPH assay, Green synthesis, Iron nanoparticles, Persea americana,