To prepare and evaluate a 30 mL oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion containing liquid paraffin.

Aim

To prepare and evaluate a 30 mL oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion containing liquid paraffin.

Reference:-  (Provide later)

Requirements

Apparatus

Beakers, mortar and pestle, measuring cylinder, balance, spatula.

Chemicals / Ingredients

Liquid Paraffin, Acacia, Distilled Water.

Theory:-

Liquid Paraffin Emulsion:
Liquid paraffin emulsion is an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion prepared by dispersing liquid paraffin (oil phase) in water (aqueous phase) using acacia as a natural emulsifying agent. It is commonly prepared by the dry gum method (4:2:1 method), where four parts of oil, two parts of water, and one part of gum are mixed to form a primary emulsion, which is then diluted to the required volume. This pharmaceutical preparation is mainly used as a laxative to relieve constipation by softening the stool and lubricating the intestinal walls. The emulsion form improves palatability and makes administration easier, especially for children and elderly patients. In addition to internal use, liquid paraffin emulsion is also applied externally in cosmetic and dermatological preparations as a skin moisturizer and protective agent, providing both therapeutic and soothing effects.

Formula: (White page)

Ingredient	Function	Quantity for 30 mL
Liquid Paraffin	Oil phase (active)	10 mL
Acacia	Emulsifying agent	2.5 g
Distilled Water	Continuous phase	q.s. to 30 mL

 

Procedure

In a clean and dry mortar, accurately weigh 2.5 g of acacia and add it to the mortar. Then, add 10 mL of liquid paraffin and triturate gently so that the acacia becomes evenly coated with the oil. Next, add about 7.5 mL of distilled water all at once and triturate rapidly and continuously until a thick, white, creamy primary emulsion is formed, indicated by a characteristic clicking sound. After the primary emulsion is formed, gradually add the remaining quantity of distilled water in small portions with constant stirring to make up the final volume of 30 mL. The prepared liquid paraffin emulsion is then transferred into a clean amber-colored bottle, tightly closed, and properly labeled.

Storage :- store in a dry place and protect from light.

Dispensing :- Transfer the prepared emulsion into a clean amber-colored bottle, label it properly with the name, date, and directions for use, and dispense it.

Direction:- Two teaspoonfuls to be taken ,at night.

Note:- laxative is a drug that stimulates evacuation of the stools.