The Effect of Phosphorylation (Sodium Trimetaphosphate) of Faro 40 Rice Starch for the Production of Pharmaceutical Grade Starch

Introduction: Nigerian FARO 40 rice starch has been underutilized due to low edible qualities. The aim of this study was to chemically modify underutilized rice variety using standard methods for possible use as pharmaceutical grade starch.

Methodology: The physicochemical properties of native and phosphorylated FARO 40 rice starch were analysed using standard methods. Scan electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Thermogravimetric analyser and Derivative Thermogravimetric analyser were utilized to decide the morphological properties of native and modified starch. The comparative binding and disintegrant capacities of these starch in tablets detailing were examined utilizing paracetamol as model sedate. Paracetamol tablets were defined using wet granulation strategy and direct compression utilizing native starch, acetylated starch, and phosphorylated starch as binders. The tablet features such as smashing quality, friability, crumbling time and disintegration test were assessed utilizing friabilitor machine, deterioration machine and disintegration device.

Results: The results showed significant decreased (P<0.05) values in pH, moisture content, and gelatinization temperature for modified starches compared to the native starch. Significant increase observed in ash content, solubility, swelling capacity, browning temperature, charring temperature and amylose content of phosphorylated starch as compared to the native starch. Furthermore, significant changes were also observed in morphology of the phosphorylated starch compared to the native rice starch. The weight, crushing strength, friability, disintegration time and dissolution profile values for paracetamol tablets formulated with the phosphorylated starch were within the standard specified by British pharmacopeia and were significantly different from that of native starch (P<0.05).

Conclusion: Chemical modification has shown to improve the physicochemical and morphological properties of the three FARO 40 underutilized Nigerian rice varieties for pharmaceutical purpose.