Peanut butter-based formulations of amoxicillin for pediatric applications

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Pediatric Medicine
• Global Health

Background:

• Child mortality remains a significant global health issue, particularly in resource-limited areas.
• Access to essential medicines and adequate nutrition is crucial for reducing child mortality.
• Vulnerable children require effective interventions for improved health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel pediatric formulation of amoxicillin.
• To combine antibiotic therapy with nutritional support for children.
• To create a stable and accessible medication delivery system.

Main Methods:

• Developed NutMox, a pediatric formulation of amoxicillin within a peanut-based ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) matrix.
• The formulation is ready-to-use, thermostable, and requires no chewing or swallowing.
• Included peanut butter, sugar, vegetable oil, dry milk, and vitamins in the RUTF.

Main Results:

• Amoxicillin in NutMox demonstrated stability for at least 12 months across various storage temperatures (4°C, 25°C, 37°C).
• Pharmacokinetic studies in mice showed similar amoxicillin absorption from NutMox compared to standard suspension.
• The formulation is thermostable and easy to administer, bypassing the need for chewing or swallowing.

Conclusions:

• A peanut butter-based matrix is feasible for pediatric amoxicillin formulations.
• This RUTF-based matrix can serve as a dual-purpose vehicle for medication and nutrition.
• This approach has the potential to improve medication adherence and efficacy in pediatric populations.