[Dosage forms of phytogenic drugs]

Wien Med Wochenschr. 1999;149(8-10):258-61.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Herbal drug formulation is a challenge in pharmaceutical technology due to the complex physicochemical properties of these multicomponent materials. Potential instabilities of the pharmacologically active and coactive substances as well as incompatibilities and interactions of the extracted compounds and excipients have to be considered. Microbial contamination of the applied plant material might limit the shelf life of the products. Using state of the art methods in formulation stable preparations are obtained; additionally compliance of drugs might be enhanced due to simplified application or better sensorial quality. Nowadays, besides traditional pharmacopoeial aqueous, ethanolic, or (partially) dried extracts fluid, semisolid, or solid dosage forms of these extracts are in use, for example syrups, juices, drops, liniments, gels, ointments, creams, suppositories, tablets, coated tablets (dragees) as well as soft and hard gelatine capsules.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Dosage Forms*
  • Drug Compounding
  • Humans
  • Plant Extracts / administration & dosage*
  • Plants, Medicinal*

Substances

  • Dosage Forms
  • Plant Extracts