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Microbial contamination of pharmaceutical preparations

D Shaikh1, T A Jamshed, R Shaikh

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy,University of Karachi, Karachi-32, Pakistan.

Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
|January 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

Microbial contamination in pharmaceuticals can alter physical properties like emulsion stability and viscosity. This impacts product quality, leading to spoilage, odor, and color changes, affecting overall efficacy.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmaceutical microbiology
  • Drug product stability

Background:

  • Microbial contamination poses a significant risk to pharmaceutical products.
  • Microorganisms can be pathogenic, objectionable, or nonpathogenic yet still impact drug quality.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the physical changes in pharmaceuticals caused by microbial contamination.
  • To underscore the importance of microbial control in maintaining drug product integrity.

Main Methods:

  • This study is a review of known effects of microbial contamination on pharmaceutical formulations.
  • Analysis of physical and chemical changes induced by various microorganisms.

Main Results:

  • Microbial growth can lead to emulsion breaking, cream thinning, and syrup fermentation.
  • Turbidity, deposit formation, off-odors, and color changes are common indicators of contamination.

Conclusions:

  • Microbial contamination significantly compromises the physical characteristics and aesthetic qualities of pharmaceutical products.
  • Effective microbial control strategies are essential to prevent degradation and ensure product safety and efficacy.

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