Flocculating and suspending properties of commercial citrus pectin and pectin extracted from pomelo (Citrus maxima) peel

The aim of this study was to extend the application of pectin extracted from pomelo peel to pharmaceutical suspensions. Particularly, the influence of pectin on the stability of indomethacin suspension was investigated. The use of cation, type and concentration of pectin, pH and temperature influenced the flocculating activity of pectin in suspension. The extracted pectin has comparable activity to commercial pectins. Low concentration of pectin and ferric ions allowed obtaining indomethacin suspensions with adequate properties, i.e., suitable stability and redispersibility. The use of pectin as a suspending agent was achieved with higher concentration; the flocculated, redispersible and stable indomethacin suspension could be produced. The pharmaceutical suspension containing pectin as a flocculating or suspending agent may be applied as liquid drug delivery system for pediatric and geriatric patients.