Development and Evaluation of the Binding Properties of Raphia hookeri (Fam. Palmaceae) Gum in Pharmaceutical Tablet Formulations

Aims: This study was aimed to evaluate the potential of using Raphia hookeri gum as a binder in tablet formulations.

Study Design: Extract of Raphia hookeri gum was investigated as a binding agent in paracetamol tablet formulation in comparison with gelatin BP as standard binder.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria.

Methodology: Different concentrations of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5% w/w of Raphia hookeri gum and gelatin BP were used to formulate different batches of paracetamol tablets. The mechanical properties were assessed using crushing strength and friability tests while the drug release properties were assessed using disintegration time and dissolution time.

Results: The flow indices showed that granules formulated with Raphia hookeri gum did not possess good flow property whereas granules formulated with gelatin BP had a better flow property at all concentrations especially 5% w/w. The Carr’s Index and Hausner’s ratio fell within the acceptable limit of flow property. Tablets formulated with Raphia hookeri gum had better mechanical properties compared to those of gelatin BP. The crushing strength, disintegration and dissolution times increased with increased binder concentration while their friability decreased. Raphia hookeri gum produced tablets with stronger mechanical properties and longer disintegration and dissolution times than those containing gelatin BP.

Conclusion: This concludes/indicates that Raphia hookeri gum could be useful as a binding agent when high mechanical strength and slower release rates are desired as in controlled release formulations.