Page 135 - Pharmacognosy-I (02-06-06-102)

Drug interactions
• Decreased intestinal transit time may result in reduced absorption
of orally administered drugs. Electrolyte imbalances, such as
hypokalaemia, may potentiate the effects of cardiotonic glycosides
(e.g. digoxin)

Dosage forms
• Finely cut crude drug, powder, dried extracts, extract, fluid extract,
other liquid and solid preparations.

• Store in a tightly sealed, light-resistant container.

Posology
• The correct dosage for the treatment of occasional constipation is
the smallest dosage necessary to maintain a soft stool.
• Daily dosage: 0.3–1.0g crude drug in a single dose.
• All preparations standardized to contain 20–30 mg of
hydroxyanthracene derivatives calculated as cascaroside A.

• Taken at bedtime, or in two divided doses, one in the morning and
one at bedtime

Test for identity:
1. Modified Borntrager’s test: Boil 0.1 g of the crushed or powdered
cascara with 4 ml of alcoholic potassium hydroxide for 2-3 minutes,
dilute with 4 ml of water and filter. Acidify 5 ml of the filterate with
dilute hydrochloric acid, filter, cool and shake with 5ml of ether or
benzene, separate the yellowish organic layer into a clan test tube and

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