Research Progress on Quality Control Methods for Xiaochaihu Preparations

Abstract

Xiaochaihu (XCH) is a classic Chinese medicine formula. XCH tablet, XCH granule, XCH capsule, and XCH effervescent tablet are included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. In this review, the formula and quality standards of XCH preparations at home and abroad were compared. The differences in manufacturing process of XCH preparations are discussed. The progress of research on the qualitative identification, quantitative detection and fingerprint chromatogram/specific chromatogram of XCH preparations was reviewed. The characteristic components of Pinelliae Rhizoma Praeparatum Cum Zingibere Et Alumine and Jujubae Fructus was rarely analyzed for XCH preparations. It is suggested that the specificity of drug quality detection methods should be improved. Considering drug safety and drug efficacy, it is suggested to set the upper and lower limits of the content of saikosaponins. The standards for heavy metals and other limited items for XCH preparations are also suggested to be set.