Formulation and physicochemical evaluation of lozenge tablets containing Salvia officinalis

Objective: The aim of this study was to extract the Salvia officinalis leaves, and to formulate the lozenge tablets in order to investigate a profi table dosage form. Methods: Lozenge tablets were prepared using wet granulation. The tablets also were evaluated for the physicochemical properties such as hardness, friability, weigh uniformity, thickness and disintegration time. Results: The selected formulation tablets containing 2.5% (w/w) gelatin as a binder and 0.1 ml of Salvia officinalis extract showed their physicochemical properties in the acceptable limits. Furthermore, palatability and the taste of the tablets were found desirable after testing by human volunteers. Salvia officinalis lozenge tablets were studied under accelerated stability conditions, and based on the stability test results it is suggested to package the tablets as single unit dosage form to drug content constancy. Conclusion: The results clearly indicate that the prepared lozenge tablets can be a good alternative for traditional forms of sage. Key words: Salvia officinalis , lozenge, wet granulation, oropharyngeal infl ammation, stability.