Flavor Selection for an Aluminum and Magnesium Hydroxides Antacid Suspension

Abstract

AbstractThe organoleptic properties of a formulated oral liquid drug are an important feature that has to be considered by the manufacturer for patient acceptance of the medication and, particularly, for the commercial success of over-the-counter (OTC) products. In this work we report the results of using techniques on sensory evaluation to establish a methodology useful to help the manufacturer to select a particular flavor for a formulation oriented to the occasional consumer of antacids. Four differently flavored formulations prepared from a standard base of aluminum and magnesium hydroxides antacid suspension were tested by a panel of nine judges (ages 20-34) trained in the method and in the sensory characteristics of the product. Tests were carried out using natural light and repeated with red light, since color of samples can bias the panelists' decision for a preferred flavor. In both cases a ranking test with a 1-4 scale (1 most preferred; 4 least preferred) was used to determine panelist preferen...