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Microbial contamination and preservation efficacy of cough preparations
T E Na'was1, M S Salem, H N Alkaysi
1Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid.
Abstract:
Cough syrups, manufactured by four different Jordanian pharmaceutical companies, were examined for microbial contents and efficacy of preservation from fungal and bacterial contamination. Five per cent of the tested samples were found to be contaminated by Candida albicans and 30% of the products examined did not comply with the pharmacopoeial requirements for optimal preservation from fungal contamination. All the products tested were free from bacteria and were efficiently preserved against accidental bacterial contamination.
Insights
Jordanian cough syrups showed fungal contamination, with 30% failing preservation standards. However, all tested syrups were free from bacteria and effectively preserved against bacterial contamination.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical microbiology
- Quality control of medicines
Background:
- Cough syrups are widely used medications.
- Ensuring microbial purity and effective preservation is crucial for pharmaceutical products.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the microbial contamination and preservation efficacy of Jordanian-manufactured cough syrups.
- To identify potential risks associated with fungal and bacterial contamination in these products.
Main Methods:
- Microbial analysis of cough syrup samples from four Jordanian pharmaceutical companies.
- Testing for the presence of Candida albicans and other bacteria.
- Evaluation against pharmacopoeial standards for preservation.
Main Results:
- Five percent of cough syrup samples were contaminated with Candida albicans.
- Thirty percent of the products did not meet pharmacopoeial requirements for fungal preservation.
- All tested cough syrups were free from bacterial contamination.
- Effective preservation against accidental bacterial contamination was confirmed for all products.
Conclusions:
- While bacterial contamination was not an issue, a significant proportion of Jordanian cough syrups exhibit inadequate fungal preservation.
- Further quality control measures are needed to ensure compliance with fungal contamination standards for cough syrups.