TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT OF ALTERNATIVE PHARMACEUTICAL SYSTEMS CONTAINING DESLORATADINE: PEDIATRIC GUMMIES AND LOLLIPOPS

Abstract

Introduction: This study focuses on the technological development of alternative pharmaceutical dosage forms containing desloratadine, specifically gummies and lollipops aimed at the pediatric population. Desloratadine, a second-generation antihistamine, is widely used in children due to its efficacy and safety. However, the traditional oral form presents sensory barriers that hinder treatment adherence. Objective: The objective of this study was to develop alternative systems (gummies and lollipops) containing desloratadine and to evaluate the stability of these formulations. Methodology: Gummies and lollipops containing desloratadine at a concentration of 1.25 mg/ml (the recommended dose for children aged 1 to 5 years) were developed and evaluated over 3 weeks under different storage conditions: room temperature (20º to 25ºC), refrigeration (2º to 8ºC), and oven (40º to 45ºC). The parameters assessed included average weight and organoleptic characteristics (color, odor, and appearance) for both gummies and lollipops; moisture content for gummies; hardness for lollipops; and disintegration time for gummies. Results and Discussion: Both at room temperature and under refrigeration, lollipops and gummies maintained stable weight, hardness, disintegration time, and sensory characteristics, with only minor natural variations. Under oven conditions, both formulations showed significant degradation: gummies melted, making analysis impossible, and lollipops exhibited reduced hardness, weight loss, and sensory alterations. Conclusion: It is concluded that the developed alternative pharmaceutical forms are stable and suitable for pediatric use when stored under appropriate conditions, highlighting the importance of temperature control to ensure their quality and safety.