MATERIALS AND METHODS: The oral toxicity study using Swiss albino mice was performed in accordance with OECD guidelines. The EtAI and AqAI extracts of Aristolochia indica Linn were studied for antidiarrhoeal property using castor oil-induced diarrhoeal model and charcoal-induced gastrointestinal motility test in Swiss albino mice.

RESULTS: Among the tested doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight, the extracts reduced the frequency and severity of diarrhoea in test animals throughout the study period. At the same doses, the extract delayed the intestinal transit of charcoal meal in test animals as compared to the control and the results were statistically significant.

Materials and Methods: The formulation design was based on the independent formulation variables of the concentration of chitosan and sodium tripolyphosphate using a simple factorial design experiment. DEET-loaded microparticles were developed and incorporated into a hydrogel. The size of the microparticles was analyzed using the Zetasizer Nano® particle size analyzer, and the surface morphology, using field emission scanning electron microscopy. Drug release from the microparticles was determined by the dialysis bag method. A rheological evaluation of the formulated gel was performed using a Thermo Haake Rheometer. The in vitro permeation of the formulation was performed using a synthetic Strat-M® membrane.

Results: The size of the microparticles ranged from 0.45 to 8.3 μm, and the encapsulation efficiencies were >50% for all the formulations. The drug-release curves showed no initial burst release from the microparticle formulation. Instead, a slow and controlled drug release was observed over 24 hours that followed Higuchi kinetics. The cumulative amount of DEET permeated (over 24 h) from the DEET solution (control), and the formulation was 211.6±19.5 μg/cm2 and 4.07±0.08 μg/cm2, respectively.