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PH Considerations in pharmaceutical drugs

The term pH refers to a measure of how active a solvate hydrogen ion is. It measures the

concentration of hydrogen ions. The pH scale measures the acidity of a solution and has values

that run from 1 to 14 (Martin 2009). A solution in acidic when values are less than 7, neutral

when the pH is 7 and basic when the pH is greater than 7.

In today’s medical world, drugs have become the primary method of curing diseases.

Their formation, efficiency, and effectiveness depend on the pH. A given pH level is crucial for

the formation and stability of a desired chemicals while eliminating the likelihood of the

formation of unwanted products (Mark 2009). Knowledge of the pH of a given drug enables

manufacturers to determine the best way in which to administer the drug, whether through a gel,

cream, solution, suspension, tablet or a capsule.

It is important to understand drugs properties so as to appreciate the likely effects on a

therapeutic result when switching from one treatment to another. This is in terms of clinical

efficacy and patient safety (Mark 2009). When a drug happens to be too acidic or too basic, it

may end up harming the patient.

Antacids are an excellent example of the importance of pH in pharmaceutical drugs. They

neutralize stomach acid (Hydrochloric acid). Mylanta (Aluminum hydroxide and Magnesium
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hydroxide), and Hydrochloric acid react to form Magnesium Chloride, Aluminum Chloride and

water. Knowledge of the general pH of the acid in the stomach enables manufacturers to

formulate a stable base that effectively neutralizes the acidity and utterly phases out any

discomfort (Martin 2009).

I have learnt the importance of considering the pH in pharmaceutical drugs as it allows

for better drug dispensation and treatment of patients.

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Attachment:

Reaction of Mylanta and Hydrochloric acid

Mg (OH) 2(aq) + 2HCL (aq)  MgCl2 (aq) + 2H2O (l)

Al (OH) 2(aq) + 3HCl (aq)  AlCl3 (aq) + 3H2O (l)

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Works Cited

Martin Guha. “Drug information: A Guide to Current Resources (3rd edition)." Library Review

58.6 (2009): 463 – 465. Print.

Mark Kay J. "Our Daily Meds." International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare

Marketing 3.3 (2009): 294 – 296. Print.