Formulation and Evaluation of Potassium Citrate Gummies for Management of Kidney Stones

Potassium Citrate is an important ingredient in preventing and managing kidney stones because it increases the level of citrate in urine while lowering the acidity of urine to inhibit crystallisation. However, conventional dosage forms of Potassium Citrate such as tablets and syrups have been reported to exhibit poor taste characteristics and swallowing difficulties leading to non-adherence among patients. With this in mind, the objective of the current study was to formulate and evaluate potassium citrate-containing gummies. The preparation of gummy candies involves the use of a gelifying agent (gelatin /pectin) along with other ingredients such as sweeteners, plasticising agents, flavouring agents, among others by application of heat followed by moulding. Various physical parameters such as texture, appearance, weight variation, pH, water content, drug content uniformity and mechanical strength were assessed alongside in vitro dissolution studies for potassium citrate gummies. It was established that gummy candies had good taste and appearance, while drug uniformity and appropriate mechanical strength were exhibited. The in vitro release profile of the drug from gummy candy showed that drug release occurred satisfactorily. To sum up, gummy candies provide a potential dosage form that enhances patient compliance and drug effectiveness for the treatment of kidney stones. This study concludes that potassium citrate gummies are a feasible option for kidney stone management, offering a convenient and appealing dosage form for patients. Future clinical trials are recommended to further evaluate the efficacy and patient compliance in real-world settings.