2017 年 43 巻 12 号 p. 691-700
The influenza virus causes seasonal influenza epidemics and, from time to time, worldwide pandemics. Seasonal influenza epidemics in winter cause increased morbidity because vaccination is aimed at preventing influenza. However, influenza treatment is limited because oseltamivir cannot be used in children. Recently, Kampo medicine containing maoto was reported to have anti-viral and antipyretic effects. In Japan, maoto is generally administered as concentrated extract-granules. However, children do not like to take the maoto extract-granules because of their distinctive smell and bitter taste. Therefore, masking the smell and bitter taste is necessary for administration to children who are unable to take oral medications. In this study, we developed and characterized a new chocolate formulation for masking the maoto extract, using human sensory tests.
The chocolate bases A to J (10 forms) were selected from commercial products. The total evaluation score for the maoto extract-containing chocolate formulation-D (Mao/nC) was the highest of the 10 forms according to the human sensory test results. The maoto extract-containing adjusted chocolate formulation (Mao/OrC) was based on an adjusted version of the Mao/nC formulation. The Mao/OrC exhibited improved smell and sweetness and overall evaluation scores compared with the Mao/nC, according to the human sensory test results. The results of a dissolution test, drug release test, and viscosity and osmotic pressure of the Mao/OrC were improved compared with those of the Mao/nC, and those of bioequivalence were similar. These results suggest that the Mao/OrC could be used as a new masking chocolate formulation for preparation in hospitals.
