Development and evaluation ofandrographolide (from Andrographis paniculata) rectal suppositories

Andrographolide the active constituent isolated from the plant Andrographis paniculata has been reported to be useful in protecting the liver from various chemical damages. After oral administration of this compound it undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism. To partially avoid the hepatic first pass metabolism of this drug the rectal suppositories (50mg/supp) were prepared with different proportions of P.E.G. bases and evaluated. The average drug content of the rectal suppository was 49.92′0.24 mg. The time required for the 90% drug release from suppository was 90 min. This new approach has identified a novel drug delivery system of a useful phytochemical andrographolide for improved bioavailability.