Preformulation Study of Pugun Tano (Curanga fel-terrae [Lour.] Merr) Ethanolic Extract Granule Mass in Capsule as Hepatoprotective Drug

BACKGROUND: Pugun tano extract had been studied for its effect as hepatoprotector. However, the usage of the plant in the form of extract has a limitation, especially if the extract is consumed by the people due to the unpleasant taste and odour. Then, the extract needs to be transformed into a particular dosage form, such as a capsule. But before the capsule can be produced, a preformulation study of pugun tano extract into a granule mass in capsule need to be evaluated. AIM: The study aimed to formulate the ethanolic extract of pugun tano (Curanga fel-terrae (Lour.) Merr) as granule mass in the capsule dosage form. METHODS: The pugun tano ethanolic extract was formulated in several steps included preparation of dry extract using coating method with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and granule mass production. The excipients used for the granule mass were lactose granules (made with tapioca starch using wet granulation), corn starch (made with 3 concentrations of 5% (F1), 7.5% (F2) and 10% (F3)), talcum, magnesium stearate, methylparaben, and propylparaben. The granule mass was evaluated for the bulk density, tapped density, inter-particle porosity, Carr’s index, Hausner ratio, angle of repose, and flowability. RESULTS: The results showed that all of the formulae passed the requirement of the preformulation test. The bulk density of the granule mass was 0.79 – 0.86 g/ml; the tapped density was 0.88 – 0.90 g/ml; the inter-particle porosity was 0.03 – 0.14; the Carr’s index was 2.71 – 11.94%; the Hausner ratio was 1.09-1.12; the angle of repose was 26.10 – 28.90°; and the flowing time was 5.97 – 6.63 seconds. All of the formulae showed good flowability and free-flowing properties. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the obtained formula containing pugun tano ethanolic extract can be formulated into granule mass for the capsule dosage form.