SSS THROAT LOZENGES-ORANGE WITH VITAMIN C

Indications

• Vitamin C deficiency
• Scurvy
• Adjunct therapy in iron overload conditions

Dosage

Children: Child 1 month–3 years: 125–250 mg daily in 1–2 divided doses; Child 4–11 years: 250–500 mg daily in 1–2 divided doses; Child 12–17 years: 0.5–1 g daily in 1–2 divided doses.

Adults: 500 mg daily, taken in 1-2 divided doses, depending on the clinical condition and dietary needs.

Mechanism of action

Ascorbic acid functions primarily as a reducing agent, facilitating enzymatic reactions in the body, including the hydroxylation of proline and lysine in collagen synthesis. It also plays a role in the absorption of iron from the gastrointestinal tract and enhances the immune response.

Pharmacodynamics

Ascorbic acid is crucial for the maintenance of connective tissue and is involved in the metabolism of several amino acids. Its antioxidant properties help to mitigate oxidative stress and may play a role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Pharmacokinetics

Ascorbic acid is absorbed in the intestines and is widely distributed throughout the body. The renal clearance of ascorbic acid is dose-dependent, with higher doses leading to increased excretion. The half-life varies but is generally around 15 to 30 minutes in healthy individuals, with tissue saturation levels influencing its retention.

Contra-indications

• Hypercalcaemia
• Hyperoxaluria
• Patients with cardiac dysfunction

Adverse effects

• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Weight loss
• Polyuria
• Sweating
• Thirst
• Vertigo

Interactions

• Increases risk of cardiovascular adverse effects with iron chelators
• Increases risk of cardiovascular adverse effects with deferiprone
• Increases risk of cardiovascular adverse effects with desferrioxamine

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with iron overload
• Monitor for symptoms of overdose

Pregnancy

High doses teratogenic in animals but therapeutic doses unlikely to be harmful.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Formulations

• Ascorbic acid 50 mg tablets
• Ascorbic acid 100 mg tablets
• Ascorbic acid 200 mg tablets
• Ascorbic acid 250 mg tablets
• Ascorbic acid 500 mg capsules

Indications

• Topical antiseptic for skin disinfection
• Active ingredient in throat lozenges for sore throat relief
• Disinfectant in medical and surgical settings

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines and BNF for dosage information.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines and BNF for dosage information.

Mechanism of action

4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol acts primarily by disrupting the cell membrane of bacteria and fungi, leading to the leakage of intracellular components and ultimately resulting in cell death. It is thought to interact with the lipid bilayer of microbial membranes, altering their permeability and integrity.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of 4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol reflect its antiseptic activity against a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as some fungi. The compound exhibits bactericidal properties, which are influenced by factors such as concentration, pH, and contact time. Its effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent makes it suitable for use in various topical applications.

Pharmacokinetics

4-Dichlorobenzyl alcohol is absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes, although systemic absorption is generally low. Its metabolism occurs primarily in the liver, where it is converted into metabolites that are then excreted via the kidneys. The exact pharmacokinetic parameters, including half-life and clearance rates, are not well-documented in literature.

Adverse effects

• Skin irritation
• Allergic reactions
• Respiratory irritation
• Gastrointestinal disturbances

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with known allergies to similar compounds
• Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes
• May cause irritation to sensitive skin

Pregnancy

There is limited data on the safety of 4-dichlorobenzyl alcohol in pregnancy. Use only if clearly needed.

Breast-feeding

Limited information available. Caution is advised; consult a healthcare professional before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Topical solutions
• Gels
• Sprays

Indications

• Sore throat
• Throat irritation
• Symptomatic relief of throat infections

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing guidance.

Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing recommendations.

Mechanism of action

The mechanism of virucidal action is not fully elucidated; however, it is suggested that denaturation of external protein spikes, a pH-induced rearrangement of the tertiary structure of attachment proteins, or a selective effect on viral lipid membranes and protein-lipid interaction is responsible for this action. Amylmetacresol also blocks voltage-gated Na channels in a local anesthetic-like manner.

Pharmacodynamics

Amylmetacresol throat lozenges markedly reduce the infectivity of certain infectious viruses in the throat and in cough droplets, thus reducing opportunities for person-to-person transmission. Additionally, it relieves symptoms of sore throat and irritation of the throat by inhibiting the inflammatory and pain mediators involved in the inflammation of the mouth and throat mucous membranes.

Adverse effects

• Allergic reactions
• Local irritation
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Precautions

• Use with caution in individuals with known allergies to local anesthetics.
• Not recommended for prolonged use.

Pregnancy

Safety in pregnancy has not been established, consult healthcare provider before use.

Breast-feeding

Consult healthcare provider before use during breastfeeding.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Formulations

• Throat lozenges containing amylmetacresol

Mechanism of action

The mechanism of virucidal action is not fully elucidated, however it is suggested that denaturation of external protein spikes, a pH-induced rearrangement of the tertiary structure of attachment proteins, or a selective effect on viral lipid membranes/protein–lipid interaction is responsible for this action. Amylmetacresol is an antibacterial and antiviral agent, and blocks voltage-gated Na channels in a local anesthetic-like manner.

Pharmacodynamics

The mixture of amylmetacresol throat lozenge medications markedly reduces the infectivity of certain infectious viruses in the throat and in cough droplets, thus reducing opportunities for person-to-person transmission. In addition, it relieves symptoms of sore throat/irritation of the throat,. Amylmetacresol is thought to inhibit the inflammatory and pain mediators that are involved in the inflammation of the mouth and throat mucous membranes, as well as the sore throat.