Reham Ibrahim Mohammed - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Reham Ibrahim Mohammed

Research paper thumbnail of Formulation, characterization and cellular toxicity assessment of a novel bee-venom microsphere in prostate cancer treatment

Scientific Reports

Bee venom (B.V.) is a toxin produced naturally by honey bees with several toxic and therapeutic e... more Bee venom (B.V.) is a toxin produced naturally by honey bees with several toxic and therapeutic efficacies. It is used in the treatment of different cancer kinds like renal, hepatic, and prostate cancer. Due to its protein nature, it is degraded in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Colon-targeted drug delivery systems represent a useful tool to protect B.V. from degradation and can be administered orally instead of I.V. infusion and traditional bee stinging. In the present study, B.V. loaded enteric-coated cross-linked microspheres were prepared by emulsion cross-linking method. Percentage yield, entrapment efficiency %, swelling degree, and in-vitro release are evaluated for prepared microspheres. Free B.V., optimized microspheres formula (F3), and doxorubicin cytotoxic effects were tested by MTT assay. Results concluded that free B.V. was more effective against the growth of human prostate adenocarcinoma (PC3) cells followed by optimized microspheres than doxorubicin. But both fre...

Research paper thumbnail of Efficient lung-targeted delivery of risedronate sodium/vitamin D3 conjugated PAMAM-G5 dendrimers for managing osteoporosis: Pharmacodynamics, molecular pathways and metabolomics considerations

Research paper thumbnail of Formulation, characterization and antimicrobial properties of black cumin essential oil nanoemulsions stabilized by OSA starch

Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2017

Preparation of oil-in-water nanoemulsions has emerged as a subject of interest for the encapsulat... more Preparation of oil-in-water nanoemulsions has emerged as a subject of interest for the encapsulation of lipophilic functional ingredients to increase their stability and activity. In this study, black cumin essential oil nanoemulsions (BCO-NE) using different ratios of essential oil with canola and flax seed oils (ripening inhibitors) were formulated and stabilized with octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) modified waxy maize starch. The nanoemulsions exhibited monomodal size distributions with mean droplet diameter below 200 nm and zeta potential above-30, indicating a strong electrostatic repulsion between the dispersed oil droplets. Further, during storage (4 weeks at 25°C ± 2) emulsions showed shear thinning phenomena and stability towards coalescence. Antimicrobial properties of nanoemulsions were determined by minimum inhibitory concentration and timekill method against two Gram-positive bacterial (GPB) strains (Bacillus cereus and Listeria monocytogenes). Negatively charged BCO-NE showed prolonged bactericidal activities as compared to pure BCO due to better stability, controlled release and self-assembly with GPB cell membrane followed by destruction of cellular constituents. Our results suggest the application of BCO-NE may be exploited in aqueous food systems for extending the shelf life and other functional properties. Keywords Black cumin essential oil Á OSA modified starch Á Nanoemulsions Á Rheology Á Antimicrobial properties Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (

Research paper thumbnail of Colon Specific Multi-Particular System for Protein Delivery: A Potential Approach for Treatment of Colon Cancer

Journal of applied pharmacy, Sep 29, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Research Paper Commerce Medical Science Formulation and In-Vitro Evaluation of Pulsatile Drug Delivery of Melatonin Using Pulsincap Technology

Research paper thumbnail of In-vivo wound healing activity of a novel composite sponge loaded with mucilage and lipoidal matter of Hibiscus species

Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 2021

Many researches have been undergone to hasten the natural wound healing process. In this study, s... more Many researches have been undergone to hasten the natural wound healing process. In this study, several Hibiscus species (leaves) were extracted with petroleum ether, methanol, and their mucilage was separated. All the tested species extracts were assessed for their viability percentage using the water-soluble tetrazolium. H.syriacus was the plant of choice to be incorporated in a new drug delivery system and evaluated for its wound healing activity. H.syriacus petroleum ether extract (PEE) showed a high percentage of palmitic and oleic acids while its mucilage demonstrated high glucosamine and galacturonic acid. It was selected to be formulated and pharmaceutically evaluated into three different composite sponges using chitosan in various ratios. Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy investigated the chemical interaction between the utilized sponges' ingredients. Morphological characteristics were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. H.syriacus composite sponge of mucilage: chitosan (1:5) was loaded with three different concentrations of PEE. Medicated formulations were assessed in rat model of excision wound model. The wound healing ability was clearly proved by the clinical acceleration, histopathological examination, and modulation of correlated inflammatory parameters as tumor necrosis factor in addition to vascular endothelial growth factor suggesting a promising valuable candidate that supports the management of excision wounds using single-dose preparation.

Research paper thumbnail of A completely polyherbal conditioning and antioxidant shampoo: A phytochemical study and pharmaceutical evaluation

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences, 2019

Aim: A recent approach in shampoo research has been to find a natural alternative for synthetic d... more Aim: A recent approach in shampoo research has been to find a natural alternative for synthetic detergents that have deteriorative effects on hair follicles. This study aimed at the formulation of a completely herbal shampoo containing a natural foaming agent, in addition to having conditioning, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. Material and Methods: The leaves of Salix babylonica L., Ziziphus spina-christi L. (Willd), and Glycyrrhiza glabra rhizomes were extracted with 70% methanol then quantified for their phenolic and flavonoid contents using colorimetric assays that were qualitatively identified by Ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS). The mineral content was also estimated. The radical scavenging activity was estimated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was determined. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity was tested using agar diffusion assay and compared to vancomycin and ketoconazole. Four formulations, consisting of the different plant extracts and a combination of the extracts, were prepared and evaluated for several physicochemical properties. The best formula was evaluated for its conditioning effects using scanning electron microscope and blind touch tests by asking volunteers for grading the formulations. Results and Discussion: UPLC-MS-MS analysis of S. babylonica and Z. spina-christi allowed tentative identification of 12 phytoconstituents in each. Z. spina-christi showed the highest phenolic content and a high copper, zinc, and manganese content beside the best antioxidant activity, whereas G. glabra had a high potency against Bacillus cereus and Candida albicans. The polyherbal shampoo formulation (F4) was selected as an optimized formulation because of a high foam stability after 4 min, low wetting time (2 s), surface tension reduction, and comparable results for percent solid content. F4 showed good conditioning effect and consumer contentment. Conclusion: The formulated polyherbal shampoo is chemical free, extra-nourishing shampoo with excellent conditioning, cleansing, and antimicrobial effects.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparative evaluation of ketoconazole-β-cyclodextrin systems prepared by coprecipitation and kneading

Drug discoveries & therapeutics, 2010

Ketoconazole (KZ), an imidazole antifungal, was formulated into inclusion complexes via coprecipi... more Ketoconazole (KZ), an imidazole antifungal, was formulated into inclusion complexes via coprecipitation and kneading with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) as a carrier in 1:1 and 1:2 drug to carrier ratios. The KZ-β-CD solid complexes were characterized by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The diffraction pattern of the pure drug revealed the drug to be highly crystalline in nature, as indicated by numerous distinctive peaks. The lack of numerous distinctive peaks of the drug in KZ-β-CD complexes prepared by the two methods revealed that a large number of the drug molecules were dissolved in a solid-state carrier matrix with an amorphous structure. The thermograms of the KZ-β-CD complexes showed a strong reduction in the intensity and broadening of drug peaks somewhat in both kneading and coprecipitation systems, suggesting that the drug is monomolecularly dispersed in the β-CD cavity. The prepared tablets of KZ-β-CD solid complexes prepared by the two methods were...

Research paper thumbnail of Formulation and In-Vitro Evaluation of Pulsatile Drug Delivery of Melatonin Using Pulsincap Technology

Global journal for research analysis, 2016

The aim of the present study is to prepare a single unit pulsatile capsule of melatonin (MT) to c... more The aim of the present study is to prepare a single unit pulsatile capsule of melatonin (MT) to control sleeping problems of travelers and night workers. This is achieved by preparing MT microsponges utilizing different proportions of ethyl cellulose (EC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) using quasi-emulsion solvent evaporation method. Then, MT microsponges are incorporated into pulsincaps where the lag time is controlled by a polymer plug. The main constituent of the capsule is gelatin and formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is used to retard the dissolution rate of the capsule body. Microsonge formulation M 2 showed optimum loading efficiency and smallest particle size. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that the microsponges are porous, spherical in shape with smooth surface. P 4 pulsincap system prepared from microsponge formulae (M 2 ) and plugged by sodium carboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC 40 %) showed 100 % release of MT after 12 hr.

Research paper thumbnail of Downregulation of MMP1 expression mediates the anti-aging activity of Citrus sinensis peel extract nanoformulation in UV induced photoaging in mice

Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy

Research paper thumbnail of In-vivo wound healing activity of a novel composite sponge loaded with mucilage and lipoidal matter of Hibiscus species

Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, 2021

Many researches have been undergone to hasten the natural wound healing process. In this study, s... more Many researches have been undergone to hasten the natural wound healing process. In this study, several Hi-biscus species (leaves) were extracted with petroleum ether, methanol, and their mucilage was separated. All the tested species extracts were assessed for their viability percentage using the water-soluble tetrazolium. H.syriacus was the plant of choice to be incorporated in a new drug delivery system and evaluated for its wound healing activity. H.syriacus petroleum ether extract (PEE) showed a high percentage of palmitic and oleic acids while its mucilage demonstrated high glucosamine and galacturonic acid. It was selected to be formulated and pharmaceutically evaluated into three different composite sponges using chitosan in various ratios. Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy investigated the chemical interaction between the utilized sponges' ingredients. Morphological characteristics were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. H.syriacus composite sponge of...

Research paper thumbnail of Design and optimization of topical terbinafine hydrochloride nanosponges: Application of full factorial design, in vitro and in vivo evaluation

Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research

Terbinafine hydrochloride (THCl) has a broad-spectrum antifungal activity. THCl has oral bioavail... more Terbinafine hydrochloride (THCl) has a broad-spectrum antifungal activity. THCl has oral bioavailability 40%, which increases dosing frequency of the drug, thus leads to some systemic side effects. Sustained release THCl nanosponges hydrogel was fabricated to deliver the drug topically. Pure THCl (drug), polyvinyl alcohol (emulsifier), and ethyl cellulose (EC, polymer to produce nanosponges) were used. THCl nanosponges were produced successfully by the emulsion solvent evaporation method. Based on a 32 full factorial design, different THCl: EC ratios and stirring rates were used as independent variables. The optimized formula selected based on the particle size and entrapment efficiency % (EE) was formulated as topical hydrogel. All formulations were found in the nanosize range except F7and F9. EE was ranged from 33.05% to 90.10%. THCl nanosponges hydrogel released more than 90% of drug after 8 h and showed the highest in vivo skin deposition and antifungal activity. The increase in drug: EC ratio was observed to increase EE and the particle size while higher stirring rate resulted in finer emulsion globules and significant reduction in EE. The drug release profile was slow from dosage form when it was incorporated in entrapped form as nanosponges rather than unentrapped one. The nanosponges hydrogel succeeded to sustain THCl release over 8 h. It showed the highest antifungal activity and skin deposition. THCl nanosponges hydrogel represents an enhanced therapeutic approach for the topical treatment of fungal infection.

Research paper thumbnail of A Completely Polyherbal Conditioning and Antioxidant Shampoo: A Phytochemical Study and Pharmaceutical Evaluation

Aim A recent approach in shampoo research has been to find a natural alternative for synthetic de... more Aim A recent approach in shampoo research has been to find a natural alternative for synthetic detergents that have deteriorative effects on hair follicles. This study aimed at the formulation of a completely herbal shampoo containing a natural foaming agent, in addition to having conditioning, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. Material and Methods The leaves of Salix babylonica L., Ziziphus spina-christi L. (Willd), and Glycyrrhiza glabra rhizomes were extracted with 70% methanol then quantified for their phenolic and flavonoid contents using colorimetric assays that were qualitatively identified by Ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS). The mineral content was also estimated. The radical scavenging activity was estimated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was determined. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity was tested using agar diffusion assay and compared to vanc...

Research paper thumbnail of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Evaluation of the Effect of Nano-Formulated Spironolactone and Progesterone on Inflammation and Hormonal Levels for Managing Hirsutism Experimentally Induced in Rats

AAPS PharmSciTech, 2021

Hirsutism is a dermatological condition that refers to the excessive growth of hair in androgen-s... more Hirsutism is a dermatological condition that refers to the excessive growth of hair in androgen-sensitive areas in women. Recently, the enhancement of the visible signs of a hairy female has taken special concern that affected the quality of life. The present study was developed to compare the follicular targeting effect of topical spironolactone (SP) or progesterone (PG)-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) on the management of hirsutism. Four NLC formulations were prepared using cold homogenization techniques and pharmaceutically evaluated. SP-NLC and PG-NLC topical hydrogels were prepared to explore their pharmacological effect on letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in rats. Inflammatory mediators, antioxidant, and hormonal parameters were assayed. Additionally, histopathological examination was carried out to confirm the successful induction of PCOS. Results confirmed that all NLC formulations have a spherical shape with particle size ranged from 225.92 ± 0...

Research paper thumbnail of Characterization and Pharmacological Evaluation of Anti-Cellulite Herbal Product(s) Encapsulated in 3D-Fabricated Polymeric Microneedles

Scientific Reports, Apr 14, 2020

Skin health is vital for a healthy body. Herbal remedies have long been used for skin care, and t... more Skin health is vital for a healthy body. Herbal remedies have long been used for skin care, and their global use has tremendously increased over the past three decades. Although cellulite is seen as a normal condition by the medical community, it is considered a serious cosmetic concern for most affected women. Many topical anti-cellulite creams are available on the market, but unfortunately, their efficacy has not been proven scientifically. Microneedles (MNs) represent a new approach to enhance the permeation of loaded medication through the skin. In this study, the anti-cellulite effects of Vitex agnus-castus and Tamarindus indica extracts were compared using safe and effective polymeric MNs. This delivery system offers a painless alternative to the combined treatment strategy of microneedling devices and anti-cellulite products. The selected standardized extracts were evaluated for their mineral, phenolic and flavonoid contents, which are correlated to a promising antioxidant effect, as demonstrated by an in vitro radical scavenging activity assay. 3D-printing techniques were chosen for fabrication of a micromold, which is inexpensive for mass production. To ensure that MNs were sufficiently strong to perforate the skin without breaking, axial failure force was measured using a micro-mechanical test machine. The anticellulite effects of MNs were assessed using an in vivo diet-induced obesity guinea pig model. Skin properties, histopathology and inflammatory markers were examined. MNs loaded with plant extracts were statistically comparable in normalizing the oxidative state and reducing inflammation, while myeloperoxidase levels were more significantly reduced by T. indica than by V. agnus-castus. This novel delivery system opens the door for new transdermal strategies for cellulite management.

Research paper thumbnail of Carbamazepine Loaded Vesicular Structures for Enhanced Brain Targeting via Intranasal Route: Optimization, in Vitro Evaluation, and in Vivo Study

International Journal of Applied Pharmaceutics

Objective: Carbamazepine (CBZ) is used as a first line in the treatment of grand mal and partial ... more Objective: Carbamazepine (CBZ) is used as a first line in the treatment of grand mal and partial seizures, but it suffers from many side effects on different systems of the body. The objective of the present study was optimization of CBZ vesicular structures using 23 multifactorial design for the most efficient targeting of CBZ to the brain via the intranasal route. Methods: The concentration of CBZ (10 and 20%), type of vesicles (niosomes and spanlastics) and speed of rotation (200 and 300 rpm) were considered as the independent variables XA, XB and XC respectively, while the dependent variables were particle size PS (Y1), polydispersity index PDI (Y2), zeta potential ZP (Y3) and entrapment efficiency EE (Y4). The study of the effect of different formulation variables was carried out using Design-Expert ® software. CBZ-loaded spanlastics and noisome were prepared by the ethanol injection method and thin film hydration method, respectively. The optimized formulation was subjected to...

Research paper thumbnail of Honey-based hydrogel: In vitro and comparative In vivo evaluation for burn wound healing

Scientific reports, Jan 29, 2017

Honey was used to treat wounds since ancient times till nowadays. The present study aimed at prep... more Honey was used to treat wounds since ancient times till nowadays. The present study aimed at preparing a honey-based hydrogel and assay its antimicrobial properties and wound healing activity; in-vitro and in-vivo. Topical honey hydrogel formulations were prepared using three honey concentrations with gelling agents; chitosan and carbopol 934. The prepared formulae were evaluated for pH, spreadability, swelling index, in-vitro release and antimicrobial activity. The pH and spreadability were in the range of 4.3-6.8 and 5.7-8.6 cm, respectively. Chitosan-based hydrogel showed higher in-vitro honey release with diffusional exponent 'n ≤ 0.5 indicates Fickian diffusion mechanism. Hydrogel formulae were assessed for in-vitro antimicrobial activity using Disc Diffusion antibiotic sensitivity test against common burn infections bacteria; Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia and Streptococcus pyogenes. The 75% honey-chitosan hydrogel showed highest antimi...

Research paper thumbnail of Formulation, characterization and cellular toxicity assessment of a novel bee-venom microsphere in prostate cancer treatment

Scientific Reports

Bee venom (B.V.) is a toxin produced naturally by honey bees with several toxic and therapeutic e... more Bee venom (B.V.) is a toxin produced naturally by honey bees with several toxic and therapeutic efficacies. It is used in the treatment of different cancer kinds like renal, hepatic, and prostate cancer. Due to its protein nature, it is degraded in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Colon-targeted drug delivery systems represent a useful tool to protect B.V. from degradation and can be administered orally instead of I.V. infusion and traditional bee stinging. In the present study, B.V. loaded enteric-coated cross-linked microspheres were prepared by emulsion cross-linking method. Percentage yield, entrapment efficiency %, swelling degree, and in-vitro release are evaluated for prepared microspheres. Free B.V., optimized microspheres formula (F3), and doxorubicin cytotoxic effects were tested by MTT assay. Results concluded that free B.V. was more effective against the growth of human prostate adenocarcinoma (PC3) cells followed by optimized microspheres than doxorubicin. But both fre...

Research paper thumbnail of Efficient lung-targeted delivery of risedronate sodium/vitamin D3 conjugated PAMAM-G5 dendrimers for managing osteoporosis: Pharmacodynamics, molecular pathways and metabolomics considerations

Research paper thumbnail of Formulation, characterization and antimicrobial properties of black cumin essential oil nanoemulsions stabilized by OSA starch

Journal of Food Science and Technology, 2017

Preparation of oil-in-water nanoemulsions has emerged as a subject of interest for the encapsulat... more Preparation of oil-in-water nanoemulsions has emerged as a subject of interest for the encapsulation of lipophilic functional ingredients to increase their stability and activity. In this study, black cumin essential oil nanoemulsions (BCO-NE) using different ratios of essential oil with canola and flax seed oils (ripening inhibitors) were formulated and stabilized with octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) modified waxy maize starch. The nanoemulsions exhibited monomodal size distributions with mean droplet diameter below 200 nm and zeta potential above-30, indicating a strong electrostatic repulsion between the dispersed oil droplets. Further, during storage (4 weeks at 25°C ± 2) emulsions showed shear thinning phenomena and stability towards coalescence. Antimicrobial properties of nanoemulsions were determined by minimum inhibitory concentration and timekill method against two Gram-positive bacterial (GPB) strains (Bacillus cereus and Listeria monocytogenes). Negatively charged BCO-NE showed prolonged bactericidal activities as compared to pure BCO due to better stability, controlled release and self-assembly with GPB cell membrane followed by destruction of cellular constituents. Our results suggest the application of BCO-NE may be exploited in aqueous food systems for extending the shelf life and other functional properties. Keywords Black cumin essential oil Á OSA modified starch Á Nanoemulsions Á Rheology Á Antimicrobial properties Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (

Research paper thumbnail of Colon Specific Multi-Particular System for Protein Delivery: A Potential Approach for Treatment of Colon Cancer

Journal of applied pharmacy, Sep 29, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Research Paper Commerce Medical Science Formulation and In-Vitro Evaluation of Pulsatile Drug Delivery of Melatonin Using Pulsincap Technology

Research paper thumbnail of In-vivo wound healing activity of a novel composite sponge loaded with mucilage and lipoidal matter of Hibiscus species

Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 2021

Many researches have been undergone to hasten the natural wound healing process. In this study, s... more Many researches have been undergone to hasten the natural wound healing process. In this study, several Hibiscus species (leaves) were extracted with petroleum ether, methanol, and their mucilage was separated. All the tested species extracts were assessed for their viability percentage using the water-soluble tetrazolium. H.syriacus was the plant of choice to be incorporated in a new drug delivery system and evaluated for its wound healing activity. H.syriacus petroleum ether extract (PEE) showed a high percentage of palmitic and oleic acids while its mucilage demonstrated high glucosamine and galacturonic acid. It was selected to be formulated and pharmaceutically evaluated into three different composite sponges using chitosan in various ratios. Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy investigated the chemical interaction between the utilized sponges' ingredients. Morphological characteristics were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. H.syriacus composite sponge of mucilage: chitosan (1:5) was loaded with three different concentrations of PEE. Medicated formulations were assessed in rat model of excision wound model. The wound healing ability was clearly proved by the clinical acceleration, histopathological examination, and modulation of correlated inflammatory parameters as tumor necrosis factor in addition to vascular endothelial growth factor suggesting a promising valuable candidate that supports the management of excision wounds using single-dose preparation.

Research paper thumbnail of A completely polyherbal conditioning and antioxidant shampoo: A phytochemical study and pharmaceutical evaluation

Journal of Pharmacy And Bioallied Sciences, 2019

Aim: A recent approach in shampoo research has been to find a natural alternative for synthetic d... more Aim: A recent approach in shampoo research has been to find a natural alternative for synthetic detergents that have deteriorative effects on hair follicles. This study aimed at the formulation of a completely herbal shampoo containing a natural foaming agent, in addition to having conditioning, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. Material and Methods: The leaves of Salix babylonica L., Ziziphus spina-christi L. (Willd), and Glycyrrhiza glabra rhizomes were extracted with 70% methanol then quantified for their phenolic and flavonoid contents using colorimetric assays that were qualitatively identified by Ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS). The mineral content was also estimated. The radical scavenging activity was estimated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was determined. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity was tested using agar diffusion assay and compared to vancomycin and ketoconazole. Four formulations, consisting of the different plant extracts and a combination of the extracts, were prepared and evaluated for several physicochemical properties. The best formula was evaluated for its conditioning effects using scanning electron microscope and blind touch tests by asking volunteers for grading the formulations. Results and Discussion: UPLC-MS-MS analysis of S. babylonica and Z. spina-christi allowed tentative identification of 12 phytoconstituents in each. Z. spina-christi showed the highest phenolic content and a high copper, zinc, and manganese content beside the best antioxidant activity, whereas G. glabra had a high potency against Bacillus cereus and Candida albicans. The polyherbal shampoo formulation (F4) was selected as an optimized formulation because of a high foam stability after 4 min, low wetting time (2 s), surface tension reduction, and comparable results for percent solid content. F4 showed good conditioning effect and consumer contentment. Conclusion: The formulated polyherbal shampoo is chemical free, extra-nourishing shampoo with excellent conditioning, cleansing, and antimicrobial effects.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparative evaluation of ketoconazole-β-cyclodextrin systems prepared by coprecipitation and kneading

Drug discoveries & therapeutics, 2010

Ketoconazole (KZ), an imidazole antifungal, was formulated into inclusion complexes via coprecipi... more Ketoconazole (KZ), an imidazole antifungal, was formulated into inclusion complexes via coprecipitation and kneading with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) as a carrier in 1:1 and 1:2 drug to carrier ratios. The KZ-β-CD solid complexes were characterized by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The diffraction pattern of the pure drug revealed the drug to be highly crystalline in nature, as indicated by numerous distinctive peaks. The lack of numerous distinctive peaks of the drug in KZ-β-CD complexes prepared by the two methods revealed that a large number of the drug molecules were dissolved in a solid-state carrier matrix with an amorphous structure. The thermograms of the KZ-β-CD complexes showed a strong reduction in the intensity and broadening of drug peaks somewhat in both kneading and coprecipitation systems, suggesting that the drug is monomolecularly dispersed in the β-CD cavity. The prepared tablets of KZ-β-CD solid complexes prepared by the two methods were...

Research paper thumbnail of Formulation and In-Vitro Evaluation of Pulsatile Drug Delivery of Melatonin Using Pulsincap Technology

Global journal for research analysis, 2016

The aim of the present study is to prepare a single unit pulsatile capsule of melatonin (MT) to c... more The aim of the present study is to prepare a single unit pulsatile capsule of melatonin (MT) to control sleeping problems of travelers and night workers. This is achieved by preparing MT microsponges utilizing different proportions of ethyl cellulose (EC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) using quasi-emulsion solvent evaporation method. Then, MT microsponges are incorporated into pulsincaps where the lag time is controlled by a polymer plug. The main constituent of the capsule is gelatin and formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is used to retard the dissolution rate of the capsule body. Microsonge formulation M 2 showed optimum loading efficiency and smallest particle size. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that the microsponges are porous, spherical in shape with smooth surface. P 4 pulsincap system prepared from microsponge formulae (M 2 ) and plugged by sodium carboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC 40 %) showed 100 % release of MT after 12 hr.

Research paper thumbnail of Downregulation of MMP1 expression mediates the anti-aging activity of Citrus sinensis peel extract nanoformulation in UV induced photoaging in mice

Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy

Research paper thumbnail of In-vivo wound healing activity of a novel composite sponge loaded with mucilage and lipoidal matter of Hibiscus species

Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, 2021

Many researches have been undergone to hasten the natural wound healing process. In this study, s... more Many researches have been undergone to hasten the natural wound healing process. In this study, several Hi-biscus species (leaves) were extracted with petroleum ether, methanol, and their mucilage was separated. All the tested species extracts were assessed for their viability percentage using the water-soluble tetrazolium. H.syriacus was the plant of choice to be incorporated in a new drug delivery system and evaluated for its wound healing activity. H.syriacus petroleum ether extract (PEE) showed a high percentage of palmitic and oleic acids while its mucilage demonstrated high glucosamine and galacturonic acid. It was selected to be formulated and pharmaceutically evaluated into three different composite sponges using chitosan in various ratios. Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy investigated the chemical interaction between the utilized sponges' ingredients. Morphological characteristics were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy. H.syriacus composite sponge of...

Research paper thumbnail of Design and optimization of topical terbinafine hydrochloride nanosponges: Application of full factorial design, in vitro and in vivo evaluation

Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research

Terbinafine hydrochloride (THCl) has a broad-spectrum antifungal activity. THCl has oral bioavail... more Terbinafine hydrochloride (THCl) has a broad-spectrum antifungal activity. THCl has oral bioavailability 40%, which increases dosing frequency of the drug, thus leads to some systemic side effects. Sustained release THCl nanosponges hydrogel was fabricated to deliver the drug topically. Pure THCl (drug), polyvinyl alcohol (emulsifier), and ethyl cellulose (EC, polymer to produce nanosponges) were used. THCl nanosponges were produced successfully by the emulsion solvent evaporation method. Based on a 32 full factorial design, different THCl: EC ratios and stirring rates were used as independent variables. The optimized formula selected based on the particle size and entrapment efficiency % (EE) was formulated as topical hydrogel. All formulations were found in the nanosize range except F7and F9. EE was ranged from 33.05% to 90.10%. THCl nanosponges hydrogel released more than 90% of drug after 8 h and showed the highest in vivo skin deposition and antifungal activity. The increase in drug: EC ratio was observed to increase EE and the particle size while higher stirring rate resulted in finer emulsion globules and significant reduction in EE. The drug release profile was slow from dosage form when it was incorporated in entrapped form as nanosponges rather than unentrapped one. The nanosponges hydrogel succeeded to sustain THCl release over 8 h. It showed the highest antifungal activity and skin deposition. THCl nanosponges hydrogel represents an enhanced therapeutic approach for the topical treatment of fungal infection.

Research paper thumbnail of A Completely Polyherbal Conditioning and Antioxidant Shampoo: A Phytochemical Study and Pharmaceutical Evaluation

Aim A recent approach in shampoo research has been to find a natural alternative for synthetic de... more Aim A recent approach in shampoo research has been to find a natural alternative for synthetic detergents that have deteriorative effects on hair follicles. This study aimed at the formulation of a completely herbal shampoo containing a natural foaming agent, in addition to having conditioning, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. Material and Methods The leaves of Salix babylonica L., Ziziphus spina-christi L. (Willd), and Glycyrrhiza glabra rhizomes were extracted with 70% methanol then quantified for their phenolic and flavonoid contents using colorimetric assays that were qualitatively identified by Ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with tandem mass spectrometry (MS-MS). The mineral content was also estimated. The radical scavenging activity was estimated using 1,1-diphenyl-2-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) was determined. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity was tested using agar diffusion assay and compared to vanc...

Research paper thumbnail of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Evaluation of the Effect of Nano-Formulated Spironolactone and Progesterone on Inflammation and Hormonal Levels for Managing Hirsutism Experimentally Induced in Rats

AAPS PharmSciTech, 2021

Hirsutism is a dermatological condition that refers to the excessive growth of hair in androgen-s... more Hirsutism is a dermatological condition that refers to the excessive growth of hair in androgen-sensitive areas in women. Recently, the enhancement of the visible signs of a hairy female has taken special concern that affected the quality of life. The present study was developed to compare the follicular targeting effect of topical spironolactone (SP) or progesterone (PG)-loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) on the management of hirsutism. Four NLC formulations were prepared using cold homogenization techniques and pharmaceutically evaluated. SP-NLC and PG-NLC topical hydrogels were prepared to explore their pharmacological effect on letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in rats. Inflammatory mediators, antioxidant, and hormonal parameters were assayed. Additionally, histopathological examination was carried out to confirm the successful induction of PCOS. Results confirmed that all NLC formulations have a spherical shape with particle size ranged from 225.92 ± 0...

Research paper thumbnail of Characterization and Pharmacological Evaluation of Anti-Cellulite Herbal Product(s) Encapsulated in 3D-Fabricated Polymeric Microneedles

Scientific Reports, Apr 14, 2020

Skin health is vital for a healthy body. Herbal remedies have long been used for skin care, and t... more Skin health is vital for a healthy body. Herbal remedies have long been used for skin care, and their global use has tremendously increased over the past three decades. Although cellulite is seen as a normal condition by the medical community, it is considered a serious cosmetic concern for most affected women. Many topical anti-cellulite creams are available on the market, but unfortunately, their efficacy has not been proven scientifically. Microneedles (MNs) represent a new approach to enhance the permeation of loaded medication through the skin. In this study, the anti-cellulite effects of Vitex agnus-castus and Tamarindus indica extracts were compared using safe and effective polymeric MNs. This delivery system offers a painless alternative to the combined treatment strategy of microneedling devices and anti-cellulite products. The selected standardized extracts were evaluated for their mineral, phenolic and flavonoid contents, which are correlated to a promising antioxidant effect, as demonstrated by an in vitro radical scavenging activity assay. 3D-printing techniques were chosen for fabrication of a micromold, which is inexpensive for mass production. To ensure that MNs were sufficiently strong to perforate the skin without breaking, axial failure force was measured using a micro-mechanical test machine. The anticellulite effects of MNs were assessed using an in vivo diet-induced obesity guinea pig model. Skin properties, histopathology and inflammatory markers were examined. MNs loaded with plant extracts were statistically comparable in normalizing the oxidative state and reducing inflammation, while myeloperoxidase levels were more significantly reduced by T. indica than by V. agnus-castus. This novel delivery system opens the door for new transdermal strategies for cellulite management.

Research paper thumbnail of Carbamazepine Loaded Vesicular Structures for Enhanced Brain Targeting via Intranasal Route: Optimization, in Vitro Evaluation, and in Vivo Study

International Journal of Applied Pharmaceutics

Objective: Carbamazepine (CBZ) is used as a first line in the treatment of grand mal and partial ... more Objective: Carbamazepine (CBZ) is used as a first line in the treatment of grand mal and partial seizures, but it suffers from many side effects on different systems of the body. The objective of the present study was optimization of CBZ vesicular structures using 23 multifactorial design for the most efficient targeting of CBZ to the brain via the intranasal route. Methods: The concentration of CBZ (10 and 20%), type of vesicles (niosomes and spanlastics) and speed of rotation (200 and 300 rpm) were considered as the independent variables XA, XB and XC respectively, while the dependent variables were particle size PS (Y1), polydispersity index PDI (Y2), zeta potential ZP (Y3) and entrapment efficiency EE (Y4). The study of the effect of different formulation variables was carried out using Design-Expert ® software. CBZ-loaded spanlastics and noisome were prepared by the ethanol injection method and thin film hydration method, respectively. The optimized formulation was subjected to...

Research paper thumbnail of Honey-based hydrogel: In vitro and comparative In vivo evaluation for burn wound healing

Scientific reports, Jan 29, 2017

Honey was used to treat wounds since ancient times till nowadays. The present study aimed at prep... more Honey was used to treat wounds since ancient times till nowadays. The present study aimed at preparing a honey-based hydrogel and assay its antimicrobial properties and wound healing activity; in-vitro and in-vivo. Topical honey hydrogel formulations were prepared using three honey concentrations with gelling agents; chitosan and carbopol 934. The prepared formulae were evaluated for pH, spreadability, swelling index, in-vitro release and antimicrobial activity. The pH and spreadability were in the range of 4.3-6.8 and 5.7-8.6 cm, respectively. Chitosan-based hydrogel showed higher in-vitro honey release with diffusional exponent 'n ≤ 0.5 indicates Fickian diffusion mechanism. Hydrogel formulae were assessed for in-vitro antimicrobial activity using Disc Diffusion antibiotic sensitivity test against common burn infections bacteria; Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumonia and Streptococcus pyogenes. The 75% honey-chitosan hydrogel showed highest antimi...