Extraction and characterization of microcrystalline cellulose obtained from the back of the fruit of Lageriana siceraria (water gourd)

The work was aimed to investigate the suitability of acid modified alpha cellulose obtained from the back of the fruit of Lageriana siceraria (water gourd) in production of pharmaceuticals, particularly solid dosage forms. Cellulose is the commonest Filler/Binder or disintegrant used in tablet formulation. Cellulose was extracted from the fruit of Lageriana siceraria and subjected to modification by controlled acid micronisation to produce microcrystalline cellulose (LS-MCC) using 2.5N hydrochloric acid and Avicel pH 101 was used as the basis for comparison. The powder and flow properties of the microcrystalline cellulose was investigated and the result of both the LS-MCC and Avicel pH 101compared. Microcrystalline cellulose (LS-MCC) displayed superior swelling and hydration capacities as compared to Avicel PH101 but lesser flow properties in view of its higher angle of repose, Carr’s and Hausner’s index.