Papers by Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci
Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci, 2025
Children's vaccinations play a significant role in public health efforts, particularly in reducin... more Children's vaccinations play a significant role in public health efforts, particularly in reducing morbidity and mortality rates among children worldwide. However, challenges such as the accessibility of healthcare facilities, misinformation, and perceptions continue to affect the achievement of immunization goals in Tanzania and other developing countries. Based on the need to protect the community from diseases that can be prevented by vaccination, this study aimed to assess vaccination coverage and timeliness among children aged 12-23 months who attended postnatal immunization clinics in the Kongwa district located in the Dodoma region, Tanzania. A quantitative cross-sectional study was employed, involving 200 children who visited vaccination clinics along with their caregivers. Data were obtained through a questionnaire prepared and vaccination cards. This current study revealed that 96.0% were fully vaccinated, with 4.0% partially vaccinated, while no children were found to be totally unvaccinated. Timeliness varied across vaccines assed vaccines: 75.0% of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccinated on time, four doses of Oral Polio Vaccine ranged from 74.0-87.0% of on time vaccination. Three doses of the Pentavalent Vaccine and Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine had on-time vaccination rates ranging from 79.5% to 86.0%. Two doses of the Rotavirus Vaccine reached on-time rates of 84.5% to 86.0%. 60.5% of people received the Measles and Rubella vaccine, with 35.5% experiencing delays and 4.0% remaining unvaccinated. This study revealed that, despite the national efforts to improve vaccination rates for children, issues such as delays and incomplete immunizations persist. Strategies like community engagement, continuous training for healthcare professionals, and improving healthcare accessibility in remote areas should be reinforced to improve vaccination uptake in Tanzania.
Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci, 2025
Vitamin D and calcium are essential micronutrients with critical roles in bone metabolism, immune... more Vitamin D and calcium are essential micronutrients with critical roles in bone metabolism, immune regulation, and hematopoietic function. Deficiencies in these nutrients have been associated with anemia, impaired erythropoiesis, and platelet abnormalities. Despite their global clinical relevance, data from North African populations remain limited, particularly in Libya, where lifestyle and dietary factors may predispose individuals to suboptimal micronutrient status. This cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the association between vitamin D and calcium levels and hematological parameters. A total of 85 Libyan adult participants were enrolled, and laboratory investigations were carried out. Serum vitamin D and calcium levels were measured using standardized biochemical assays, and hematological indices including hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, and platelet count were assessed using complete blood count. The study revealed a high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency and calcium deficiency among the participants. Deficient individuals exhibited significantly lower hemoglobin levels, altered red blood cell indices, and variable platelet counts compared to those with normal micronutrient status. Participants with combined vitamin D and calcium deficiency demonstrated more pronounced hematological disturbances than those with isolated deficiencies. Vitamin D and calcium deficiencies are prevalent in the studied population and appear to significantly affect hematological homeostasis. Incorporating routine monitoring and nutritional interventions into public health strategies may help prevent anemia and related hematological disorders.
Mediterr J Med Res, 2025
Academic advising is a crucial aspect of higher education, as it helps students navigate their ac... more Academic advising is a crucial aspect of higher education, as it helps students navigate their academic journey, achieve their academic goals, and overcome any challenges they may face. The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Zawia, Libya, recognized the importance of academic advising and implemented an academic advising program for its undergraduate medical students in May 2022. This study aims to demonstrate the methodology of creating and implementing an academic advising program for undergraduate medical students at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Zawia, and to highlight the rationale behind implementing this program and its associated benefits. Additionally, the study will discuss the challenges faced by the academic advising department team during the program implementation and provide recommendations for improvement. Through a review of the literature on academic advising programs implemented in various international universities, a unique academic advising guide for the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Zawia was designed and implemented to support undergraduate medical students.
Mediterr J Med Res, 2025
Malaria is an infectious disease that presents fever, inflammation of joints, vomiting, arthralgi... more Malaria is an infectious disease that presents fever, inflammation of joints, vomiting, arthralgia, abdominal cramps, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and severe anemia in children. This study was undertaken to investigate the anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, antipyretic, and immunomodulatory properties of Cucurbita pepo and its use as an adjunct in the treatment of malaria in Nigeria. The dried plant material (aerial parts) was extracted by cold maceration using 70.0% ethanol. The extract was characterized by GC-MS analysis and subjected to pharmacological evaluation in systemic and topical inflammation, acetic acid-induced nociception, and lipopolysaccharide-induced pyrexia. Its effect on the primary humoral immune response to sheep red blood cells was also assessed. Cucurbita pepo extract (CpE) revealed its major components to be palmitic acids (47.4%), 9-octadecanoic acid (10.8%), and 4-coumaric acid (5.3%). The extract suppressed paw inflammation in a dosedependent manner, producing a significant effect at a dose of 900 mg/kg. CpE at 0.25, 1.25, and 2.5 mg inhibited topical inflammation by 17.2% to 39.0% and lymphocyte infiltration associated with the inflammatory response. At a dose of 900 mg/kg, CpE significantly reduced hyperthermia, and its effect was comparatively higher than that of indomethacin. The extract inhibited writhing response to abdominal pain, although its effect was statistically insignificant. Treatment with the extract also stimulated the immune response, evidenced by an increase in hemagglutination antibody titer and relative spleen weight in CpE-treated groups. Particularly, the extract evoked a stronger immunostimulatory response compared to levamisole, a standard immunostimulatory agent. These findings provide evidence to support the use of C. pepo in the treatment of symptoms associated with malaria.
MJMMS, 2025
The gut-brain axis is a dynamic, bidirectional communication system connecting the central nervou... more The gut-brain axis is a dynamic, bidirectional communication system connecting the central nervous system with the enteric nervous system. It regulates digestion, cognition, mood, and immune responses and plays an important role in neuropsychiatric and gastrointestinal disorders. Psychobiotics are described as live organisms that interact with the gut-brain axis to improve mental health in the host when consumed in sufficient amounts. This review outlines the mechanism through which psychobiotics will exert their effects, including neurotransmitter modulation (e.g., serotonin, GABA), regulation of the hypothalamicpituitary-adrenal axis, inhibition of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, restoration of intestinal barrier integrity, and production of neuroactive microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids and tryptophan derivatives. Advances in psychobiotics include engineered microbial strains, targeted delivery systems, personalized therapies, and combination therapies improving mental health. Despite these advances, challenges such as individual differences, regulatory issues, and ethical concerns persist. Continued clinical research is needed to confirm that the psychobiotics are safe and effective for the treatment of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Mediterranean Journal of Medical Research, 2025
Medication non-adherence remains a major barrier to optimal management of chronic diseases worldw... more Medication non-adherence remains a major barrier to optimal management of chronic diseases worldwide, leading to increased morbidity, hospitalizations, and healthcare costs. In Libya, data on adherence and its determinants are limited, particularly when comparing the public and private healthcare sectors. This descriptive cross-sectional study assessed medication adherence among 400 adult Libyan patients with chronic conditions attending a public outpatient clinic at Tripoli Medical Center and a private clinic, Al-Mustaqbel Al-Mushreq, over a three-month period. A structured Patient Compliance Questionnaire (PCQ) was administered to evaluate adherence behaviors, clinical outcomes, and patient perceptions. Chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression analyses were applied to identify factors associated with adherence. The mean age of participants was 57.4±0.9 years, with balanced gender distribution. Significant differences were observed between sectors: patients in the private sector reported higher adherence to medication and monitoring schedules (P<0.05), greater perceived improvement since diagnosis (P<0.01), and fewer concomitant diseases (P<0.05). Logistic regression identified older age (OR 1.05, 95.0% CI 1.02-1.08), longer duration of medication use (OR 1.07, 95.0% CI 1.01-1.14), and unemployment or retirement status (OR 1.54, 95.0% CI 1.10-2.17) as positive predictors of adherence, whereas poor self-perceived health status was associated with lower adherence (OR 0.68, 95.0% CI 0.49-0.94). These findings highlight the influence of socio-demographic and clinical factors on medication-taking behaviors and underscore the importance of targeted interventions. Integration of clinical pharmacy services, including patient education, counseling, and follow-up, may improve adherence and health outcomes in Libyan chronic disease populations. Strengthening public sector resources and implementing adherence-focused strategies are essential to reducing disparities and enhancing overall care quality.
MJPPS, 2025
This study aimed to quantify the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) i... more This study aimed to quantify the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) in corn silk (Zea mays L.) extracts and evaluate their antioxidant potential using the DPPH radical-scavenging assay. The findings revealed that polar solvents were the most effective in extracting phenolic and flavonoid compounds, yielding the highest concentrations of these compounds. These results underscore the significance of solvent polarity in enhancing the recovery of antioxidant-rich phytochemicals from corn silk. The propanol extract showed the highest levels of both phenolic (274.82±151.11 μg/g) and flavonoid (193.0±61.0 μg/g) compounds, followed by the ethyl acetate extract. In contrast, the chloroform extract yielded the lowest concentrations of these bioactive constituents. The propanol extract showed the highest levels of both phenolic (274.82±151.11 μg/g) and flavonoid (193.0±61.0 μg/g) compounds, followed by the ethyl acetate extract. In contrast, the chloroform extract yielded the lowest concentrations of these bioactive constituents. dependent antioxidant activity. The propanol extract was superior to the others in its free radical scavenging activity, achieving the highest inhibition rate of 82.13% at a concentration of 46.69 mg/mL. The ethyl acetate extract showed 78.07% inhibition, and the chloroform extract showed 75.81%. These results are consistent with the calculated IC50 values, which indicate that the propanol extract had the highest antioxidant efficacy. The findings establish a strong correlation between the high content of phenolics and flavonoids in corn silk extracts and their elevated antioxidant activity. The propanol extract proved to be the most effective among the tested extracts, making it a promising candidate for use as a natural source of antioxidant compounds.
Mediterranean Journal of Medical Research, 2025
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, ... more Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and metabolic disturbances. The KiSS-1 gene, which encodes the kisspeptin neuropeptide, is crucial for regulating reproductive hormones through the hypothalamicpituitary-gonadal axis. Genetic polymorphisms in KiSS1 diminish kisspeptin activity and exacerbate PCOS symptoms. This study investigates the potential of bioactive compounds from Lepidium sativum (garden cress) to modulate KiSS-1 gene function and address PCOS-related dysfunctions. A set of eight bioactive compounds from Lepidium sativum was screened using molecular docking with Virtual Screening software for Computational Drug Discovery to assess their interactions with wild-type and polymorphic forms of the KiSS-1 gene. The chemical structures of the compounds were designed using ChemSketch and are visualized for molecular interactions using BIOVIA Discovery Studio. Sequence data for the wild-type and polymorphic variants of the KiSS-1 gene were obtained from the Protein Data Bank and the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Pharmacokinetic properties and drug-likeness of the selected compounds were evaluated using SwissADME, with particular reference to Lipinski's Rule of Five criteria. Alpha-linolenic acid, oleic acid methyl ester, stigmasterol, and α-Dglucopyranoside exhibited strong binding affinities and established stable interactions with the wild-type and polymorphic forms of the KiSS-1 gene. Among them, alpha-linolenic acid and stigmasterol showed the most favorable binding profiles, characterized by stable hydrogen bonding and high binding energy values, indicating strong potential as modulators of KiSS-1 activity. Notably, the binding affinity of alpha-linolenic acid was reduced in the polymorphic variant compared to the wild-type, supporting the hypothesis of diminished gene function associated with PCOS-related polymorphisms. SwissADME analysis confirmed that these top candidates possess favorable pharmacokinetic properties and comply with Lipinski's Rule of Five, suggesting good oral bioavailability and drug-likeness. This computational study suggests that bioactive compounds from Lepidium sativum have the potential to interact effectively with both wild-type and polymorphic forms of the KiSS-1 gene. Their strong binding affinities indicate a possible role in restoring gene function, which may contribute to alleviate symptoms of POCS. The study considers epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone modification through which these compounds may enhance KiSS-1 gene expression. This dual mechanism positions Lepidium sativum as a promising plant-based therapeutic candidate for PCOS.
Mediterranean Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences, 2025
The adulteration of xylazine, a veterinary sedative and α2-adrenergic agonist, with illicit fenta... more The adulteration of xylazine, a veterinary sedative and α2-adrenergic agonist, with illicit fentanyl has emerged as a profound public health problem in North America. This combination, dubbed 'tranq dope', foments greater overdose risk while causing crippling complications such as skin ulcers and sedation that defies naloxone reversal. This review has collated all available data on the fentanyl with xylazine overdose epidemic, including its epidemiology, toxicology, clinical effects, and a review of harm reduction strategies in the context of the United States and Canada. Data from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Health Canada suggest a significant concentration in Philadelphia, Maryland, Connecticut, Vermont, as well as in Canadian provinces Ontario (Toronto), British Columbia, and Alberta. The combination of xylazine with fentanyl has been shown to cause more severe respiratory depression, hypotension, and bradycardia than fentanyl used alone. Major gaps still persist in the absence of reversal agents, unusual clinical symptoms, and infrequent detection in standard tests. Thus, combating this urgent issue requires systems thinking integrating different but parallel disciplines including advanced monitoring, novel clinical structuring for preemptive measures, and focused scientific medicine analysis.
Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci, 2025
Drug utilization in Neonatal Intensive Care Units is complex due to the immaturity of neonates an... more Drug utilization in Neonatal Intensive Care Units is complex due to the immaturity of neonates and the critical nature of their ailments. Understanding prescribing patterns is essential for promoting rational pharmacotherapy and improving neonatal outcomes. To evaluate drug utilization patterns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Aljala Maternity and Gynecology Hospital, Tripoli, Libya. A prospective, cross-sectional observational study was conducted from September to December 2023. Data were collected from 503 neonates who received at least one medication. Drug use was analyzed based on the World Health Organization-Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification. Of 739 neonates admitted, 503 met the inclusion criteria. Males accounted for 57.3% and 73.0% were born at term. The average hospital stay was 5.61 days. Neonatal sepsis (87.5%) and respiratory distress (65.2%) were the most common diagnoses. A total of 1,443 medications were prescribed, with an average of 2.9 drugs per neonate. Anti-infective agents represented 79.8% of all prescriptions, with benzyl penicillin, gentamicin, and cefotaxime being the most common. Injections were used in 93.1% of cases, and 97.4% of drugs were from the Libyan Essential Medicines List. The findings reveal high antibiotic use and empirical prescribing practices in response to infectious morbidities. There is a critical need for improved diagnostic support, therapeutic drug monitoring, and antimicrobial stewardship to ensure safe and effective pharmacotherapy in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Mediterr J Med Res, 2025
Knee osteoarthritis is a prevalent degenerative joint disorder that significantly impairs mobilit... more Knee osteoarthritis is a prevalent degenerative joint disorder that significantly impairs mobility and quality of life. Intra-articular injections, such as those containing corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid, are commonly used for symptom relief, often in conjunction with physical therapy. However, comparative data on their combined efficacy in clinical practice remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the clinical effectiveness of intra-articular corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid, each combined with physiotherapy, in reducing pain and improving range of motion in patients with knee osteoarthritis. A total of 60 Libyan patients with knee osteoarthritis treated at Mitiga Military Hospital were randomly assigned to three groups (n=20 each): Group A: received corticosteroid injections plus physiotherapy, Group B: received hyaluronic acid injections plus physiotherapy, and Group C: received physiotherapy alone. Pain intensity was assessed using the visual analog scale, and joint function was measured using active and passive range of motion assessments. Evaluations were conducted at baseline and four weeks post-treatment. Data were analyzed using a paired t-test and ANOVA. All groups demonstrated significant reductions in visual analog scale scores and improvements in range of motion post-treatment (p<0.001). Group A exhibited the greatest pain reduction (6.15±1.42 to 2.00±1.17), while Group B showed superior improvement in range of motion (passive: 101.20°±11.45° to 122.45°±8.69°). Group C demonstrated moderate but statistically significant improvement in both parameters. Corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid injections, when combined with physiotherapy, significantly improve pain and joint function in knee osteoarthritis patients. Corticosteroids may offer faster pain relief, while hyaluronic acid appears more effective in enhancing joint mobility. These findings support the use of tailored treatment approaches based on individual patient needs and therapeutic goals.
Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci, 2025
The Unani system of medicine encompasses a diverse array of dosage forms intended for local appli... more The Unani system of medicine encompasses a diverse array of dosage forms intended for local application, among which Shiyaf stands out as a distinctive solid preparation. It is defined as a dosage form specially prepared by incorporating finely powdered drugs with suitable liquid media and manually shaping them into cylindrical or conical forms. Initially, Shiyaf was predominantly used for ocular conditions, applied after being rubbed in a liquid medium and then gently applied to the eye using a finger or an applicator. Over time, its scope expanded to include insertion into rectal, vaginal, aural, and urethral orifices to produce therapeutic effects, along with application in wounds to deliver localized action. It has been historically indicated in conditions ranging from cataract and conjunctivitis to constipation, infertility, arthritis, and sexual debility. Despite its broad utility, Shiyaf has diminished in the modern practice due to its production process and lack of scientific evidence supporting its efficacy. To bridge this gap, there is a pressing need to reformulate and re-evaluate Shiyaf to establish its value in the contemporary world. A comprehensive review of classical texts such as Al-Qarabadeen, Qarabadeen-e-Kabir, Qarabadeen-e-Azam, etc., alongside searches in multiple databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, ResearchGate) was conducted to gather relevant data. In this context, a suppository emerges as the most appropriate modern equivalent to a Shiyaf. It is defined as a solid dosage form intended for insertion into body cavities, where it melts or dissolves to exert local or systemic effects. They are well-established in current therapeutics for conditions like constipation, vaginal infections, pain, fever, and other related ailments. By adapting Shiyaf into contemporary suppository formulations, Unani principles can be preserved and integrated into the modern healthcare system. This harmonization promises to enhance therapeutic acceptance, ensure dosage consistency, improve patient compliance, and foster scientific validation, ultimately revitalizing a valuable traditional preparation.
Mediterr J Med Res, 2025
Primary teeth play a crucial role in a child's overall oral and general health. Parental awarenes... more Primary teeth play a crucial role in a child's overall oral and general health. Parental awareness and knowledge have a significant influence on children's oral hygiene behaviors and outcomes. This study aimed to assess the level of parental knowledge and awareness regarding the importance of primary teeth and oral health practices. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among 350 Libyan parents attending a pediatric dental clinic. The questionnaire included items on oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and knowledge related to primary teeth and preventive care. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The majority of parents (93.4%) acknowledged the importance of primary teeth, and 91.5% agreed that children need assistance with brushing until the age of six. Additionally, 77.4% reported limiting candy intake, and 84.0% limited soft drink consumption. However, 48.1% recognized the importance of dental floss, and 64.2% were aware of the fluoride content in children's toothpaste. Most parents (98.1%) are aware of the correct frequency for toothbrush replacement, and 75.5% are also aware of the recommended dental visit intervals. While general awareness among parents is high, specific gaps remain, particularly regarding the use of dental floss and fluoride knowledge. Targeted educational programs and collaboration between dental professionals and pediatric services are essential to improve parental oral health literacy and promote better oral health outcomes in children.
Mediterr J Med Med Sci, 2025
The word cough refers to a powerful, explosive expiration that clears the tracheobronchial tract ... more The word cough refers to a powerful, explosive expiration that clears the tracheobronchial tract of fluids and foreign items. This review article aimed to outline the plants used in ethnobotany and traditional culture for the treatment and alleviation of cough. Alternative therapy is required due to the issues that arise when using traditional opioid antitussive medications, such as codeine and compounds similar to codeine, to treat cough in a variety of respiratory disorders. Medicinal plants may contain compounds with strong antitussive benefits and few side effects. Treatment rationalization is made possible by recent advancements in modern phytotherapy, such as the identification of active compounds that provide therapeutic activity and their measurement in medicinal medications, particularly about dose and the tracking of side effects. This review aims to explain the current trends and uses of medicinal plant species that are used as an expectorants and cough suppressants.
Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci, 2025
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a frequently utilized analytical method that has... more High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is a frequently utilized analytical method that has numerous characteristics, including high selectivity, sensitivity, and a reduced time requirement. Upon using this fabulous technique, the limit of detection is reduced, and the accuracy, precision, reliability, and specificity can be expanded. This technique plays a crucial role in both qualitative and quantitative analysis throughout the various stages of drug production, from the initial discovery of the drug to its excretion from the body. The role of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) in pharmaceutical analysis during various stages of drug discovery, production, and clinical use, including drug pharmacokinetics, is reviewed and discussed in detail. This provides an overview of the benefits of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography from the chemical, pharmaceutical, and clinical perspectives.
Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci, 2025
Carica papaya leaves are a popular remedy to treat Dengue-induced thrombocytopenia. There have be... more Carica papaya leaves are a popular remedy to treat Dengue-induced thrombocytopenia. There have been reports of Carica papaya effects as antibacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory. There is limited evidence documenting the effects of Carica papaya on increasing platelet count in relation to Dengue infection. Moreover, the mechanism by which Carica papaya increases the platelet counts has not been elucidated. Understanding how Carica papaya affects platelet function may have implications beyond Dengue fever management. This study aims to investigate the mechanism by which Carica papaya affects platelet count. The mechanism of thrombocytopenia in the aqueous and methanol extracts was elucidated by measuring reactive oxygen species in platelets using chemiluminescence. Both aqueous and methanol extracts of Carica papaya leaves were found to increase reactive oxygen species levels in vitro. This study is the first to try to demonstrate the mechanism by which Carica papaya increases platelet count. Carica papaya leaves may be developed into novel and useful therapeutic agents in the management of thrombocytopenia-related disorders and cardiovascular diseases.
Mediterr J Med Res, 2025
Hypertension is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases, with significant morbidity and mortalit... more Hypertension is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases, with significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. While many effective antihypertensive drugs are on the market, patients respond variably to these drugs because of genetic variations in drug metabolism. Pharmacogenomics-the analysis of how genetic variation affects drug response-provides a tailored method for optimizing antihypertensive treatment. This review examines the impact of polymorphisms in the CYP2D6 and CYP3A5 enzymes on the metabolism of commonly prescribed beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers. Polymorphisms in CYP2D6 can have a dramatic impact on the degradation of beta-blockers, influencing drug clearance and leading to variable therapeutic effects. Poor metabolizers may develop higher drug levels, increasing the potential for side effects such as bradycardia and hypotension. Conversely, ultra-rapid metabolizers can clear the drug too rapidly, decreasing its efficacy. Likewise, CYP3A5 polymorphisms influence the metabolism of calcium channel blockers. Those who express CYP3A5 metabolize the drugs more rapidly and potentially need greater doses, whereas non-expressers metabolize them more slowly, raising the potential for drug build-up and toxicity. Pharmacogenomic testing incorporated into everyday practice can allow for individualized antihypertensive treatment according to an individual's genotype. This precision strategy increases treatment efficiency, reduces side effects, and enhances patient compliance. A transformation from a general to a personalized treatment paradigm by pharmacogenomics has the potential to transform the management of hypertension and enhance cardiovascular outcomes.
Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci, 2025
The potential of endemic medicinal plants in Yemen for sustainable pharmaceutical applications is... more The potential of endemic medicinal plants in Yemen for sustainable pharmaceutical applications is home to a diverse and unique flora, with a significant proportion of endemic and near-endemic species that are traditionally used in folk medicine. This study documents 16 medicinal plant species from Abyan Governorate, Southeastern Yemen, and analyzes their traditional therapeutic uses and the extent to which they have been phytochemically investigated. The majority of these species are used to treat skin diseases, wounds, and burns. However, the findings indicate that 56.3% of these plants have not yet been studied for their active compounds. The Asclepiadaceae family was the most represented among the studied taxa, yet remains largely chemically unexplored. The study emphasizes the importance of preserving ethnobotanical knowledge and recommends future phytochemical screening and pharmacological validation of under-researched species for sustainable use in pharmaceutical development.
Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci, 2025
Natural products are a vital source of therapeutic agents due to their diverse chemical structure... more Natural products are a vital source of therapeutic agents due to their diverse chemical structures and wide range of biological activities. With the advancement of computational technologies, natural product databases have become essential tools in drug discovery, offering organized access to chemical structures, biological properties, and biosynthetic information. These databases support various stages of drug development, from target identification to lead optimization. This review outlines the essential features of Natural Products Databases and introduces the framework for the first Libyan Natural Products Database, a project designed to harness Libya's unique biodiversity. This foundational work involves a detailed review of existing natural product databases to identify their core components, data architectures, and user interface designs. While acknowledging challenges such as data standardization, limited resources, and long-term sustainability, the creation of the Libyan Natural Products Database is expected to enhance local scientific capacity and contribute meaningfully to the global drug discovery landscape. This positions the Libyan Natural Products Database to play a foundational role in advancing pharmaceutical research and drug discovery.
Mediterranean Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2025
Hypertension is a high-risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and its prevalence rate is increas... more Hypertension is a high-risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and its prevalence rate is increasing due to risk factors such as unhealthy lifestyles and aging populations. Managing hypertension is crucial to avoid complications such as stroke, heart failure, and kidney failure. In Northern Cyprus, where hypertension is a growing public health concern, pharmacists are increasingly recognized as key players in managing this ongoing condition. This study investigates the impact of pharmacists in controlling hypertension in Northern Cyprus through a survey-based observational approach. Data were collected from 70 hypertension patients engaging with community pharmacists. The results highlight pharmacists' contributions to patient education, blood pressure monitoring, and medication adherence. Relevant studies in other countries contextualize the findings about the importance of the pharmacist role. An analysis of the data confirms significant improvements in patient outcomes with pharmacist interventions. The survey results provide insights suggesting that overcoming systemic barriers and strengthening collaboration can optimize pharmacists' roles in managing hypertension in Northern Cyprus.
Uploads
Papers by Mediterr J Pharm Pharm Sci