BIOCHEMICAL, HEMATOLOGICAL, HISTOPATHOLOGICAL, AND MICROBIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF EXTEMPORANEOUSLY COMPOUNDED CAPTOPRIL SYRUP IN LABORATORY RATS

Abstract

Extemporaneously compounded captopril syrups are commonly used for patients unable to swallow tablets, yet data on their systemic safety and microbiological quality remain limited. To evaluate the biochemical, hematological, histopathological, and microbiological safety of extemporaneously compounded captopril syrup following oral administration in laboratory rats. Albino rats were assigned to receive compounded captopril syrup, captopril in deionized water, or deionized water (control) at 6 mg/kg for 28 days. Serum biochemical and hematological parameters were measured, and liver and kidney tissues were examined histologically. Microbiological quality of the syrup was assessed at 20–41 °C for up to 42 days. Serum biochemical and hematological parameters remained within normal physiological ranges in all groups, with no clinically significant differences. Histopathology revealed preserved hepatic and renal architecture, with no evidence of inflammation, degeneration, or necrosis. Microbiological testing showed no bacterial, yeast, or mold growth at any time point or storage temperature. Extemporaneously compounded captopril syrup demonstrates favorable short-term systemic safety and satisfactory microbiological quality. These findings support its suitability for oral administration when solid dosage forms are inappropriate. Future studies should investigate long-term safety and preservative efficacy