Pharmaceutical Properties of the Processed Lentinus Tuber Regium Powder and its Impact on Pharmaceutical Solid Dosage Forms

Abstract

Excipients are crucial in tablet formulation, influencing stability, manufacturability, and bioavailability. Synthetic superdisintegrants are widely used but limited by cost and availability in developing countries. Lentinus tuber regium (LT), a natural fungal sclerotium, offers a potential alternative, but its native form lacks optimal properties. This study explored processed LT powder as a superdisintegrant in paracetamol tablets. To evaluate the pharmaceutical properties of processed LT powder and its impact on tablet performance compared to native LT. LT was processed by boiling (BLT) or soaking in palm wine (SPLT). Physicochemical tests (density, Carr's index, Hausner's ratio, angle of repose, moisture content, swelling index) were conducted. Compatibility was assessed via FTIR, morphology via SEM.

Paracetamol tablets were formulated and evaluated for weight variation, hardness, friability, disintegration, and dissolution. Statistical analysis included ANOVA and t-tests (p < 0.05). Processed LT showed superior properties: lower bulk density (0.32–0.35 g/mL vs. 0.45 g/mL for NLT), Carr's index (18.6–19.2% vs. 22.4%), and angle of repose (32–34° vs. 38.5°; ANOVA F = 15.67, p < 0.001). FTIR confirmed compatibility (r = 0.92–0.95, p < 0.001); SEM revealed uniform granules. Tablets had optimal hardness (5–6 kg), friability (<0.5%), disintegration (<2 min external, <5 min internal), and dissolution (>90% in 30 min; ANOVA F = 13.56, p < 0.001). Processed LT excels as a natural superdisintegrant, enhancing tablet performance. It offers a sustainable, cost-effective alternative for Nigeria's pharmaceutical industry, warranting further scalability studies.