THYMAIR LOZENGES (Each lozenge contains Vitamin C/Zinc/Thyme Extract 15mg/2mg/11.25mg)

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

• General wellness support
• Anti-inflammatory effects
• Antioxidant activity
• Digestive aid
• Support for immune function

Dosage

Children: Paediatric dosing should be determined based on the specific extract and its intended use. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for accurate dosing.

Adults: Dosage varies widely depending on the specific extract and formulation. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions or consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing.

Mechanism of action

The mechanism of action of herbal extracts can vary significantly based on their constituents. Commonly, they exert their effects through multiple pathways including modulation of neurotransmitter systems, interference with inflammatory processes, or direct antioxidant activity. Some extracts may activate certain receptors or inhibit enzymes related to disease processes.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamics of extracts is complex due to the presence of multiple active compounds which can have synergistic or antagonistic effects. These compounds may influence cellular signaling pathways, alter gene expression, or modulate immune response. The overall pharmacological profile is determined by the specific composition of the extract, its concentration, and the biological target it interacts with.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of extracts involves absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of the active compounds. Generally, herbal extracts are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, with bioavailability influenced by factors such as formulation, the presence of food, and individual metabolic differences. Compounds may undergo hepatic metabolism, and elimination can occur through urine or feces, depending on their chemical nature.

Pregnancy

Consult a healthcare professional before use, as the safety of the extract during pregnancy has not been established.

Breast-feeding

Consult a healthcare professional before use, as the safety of the extract during breastfeeding has not been established.

Storage

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

Indications

• Antimicrobial treatment
• Respiratory tract infections
• Digestive disorders
• Cough relief
• Antiseptic applications

Dosage

Children: For paediatric use, it is best to refer to specific guidelines or consult a healthcare professional, as dosing may vary based on age, weight, and the condition being treated.

Adults: General guidance suggests that thyme can be consumed as a culinary herb, in herbal teas, or as essential oil. For therapeutic use, consult specific guidelines or professionals for appropriate dosing.

Mechanism of action

Thyme exerts its effects primarily through its constituent compounds. Thymol and carvacrol possess antimicrobial properties, disrupting the integrity of microbial cell membranes and inhibiting enzyme activity. These compounds also exhibit antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals, contributing to their anti-inflammatory actions. Thyme may also modulate immune responses, enhancing the body's defense mechanisms.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamic effects of thyme are attributed to its active compounds. Thymol and carvacrol have shown effectiveness against a range of bacteria and fungi, making thyme useful in treating infections. The anti-inflammatory properties may be due to the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. Additionally, thyme may aid in digestive health by promoting the secretion of digestive enzymes.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of thyme's active components are not extensively studied. However, it is known that essential oils containing thymol and carvacrol can be rapidly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract after ingestion. These compounds may undergo metabolism in the liver and are likely excreted in urine. The half-life of active components can vary based on formulation and individual metabolism.

Adverse effects

• Allergic reactions
• Gastrointestinal upset
• Headaches
• Dizziness

Precautions

• Use with caution in individuals with allergies to plants in the Lamiaceae family
• May interact with anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs due to its potential effects on blood clotting

Pregnancy

Generally considered safe in culinary amounts, but high doses should be avoided due to potential effects on uterine contraction.

Breast-feeding

Considered safe in culinary amounts, but high doses should be avoided.

Storage

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

Formulations

• Dried leaves
• Essential oil
• Tinctures
• Capsules