Chemistry:Demulcent

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Short description: Agent forming a soothing film over irritated mucous membranes
A demulcent cough drop

A demulcent (derived from the Latin: demulcere "caress") is a mucilaginous or oleaginous preparation[1] that forms a soothing protective film over a mucous membrane, relieving minor pain and inflammation of the membrane.[2] However, they generally help for less than 30 minutes.[3]

Demulcents are sometimes referred to as mucoprotective agents. Demulcents such as pectin, glycerin, honey, and syrup are common ingredients in cough mixtures and cough drops.[4]

Examples

Natural demulcents include slippery elm, pectin, licorice-root and marsh-mallow.

Synthetic demulcents include methylcellulose, propylene glycol, and glycerin.

References

  1. "Definition of DEMULCENT" (in en). https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/demulcent. 
  2. Mandel, I. D. (1987). "The Functions of Saliva". Journal of Dental Research 66 (2 suppl): 623–627. doi:10.1177/00220345870660S203. ISSN 0022-0345. PMID 3497964. 
  3. Frye, R; Bailey, J; Blevins, AE (May 2011). "Clinical inquiries. Which treatments provide the most relief for pharyngitis pain?". The Journal of Family Practice 60 (5): 293–4. PMID 21544279. 
  4. Boyd, Eldon M. (1952). "Cough medication and antihistaminic drugs". Can Med Assoc J 67 (4): 289–92. PMID 13009543. 

Further reading

Tripathi, K. D. (31 October 2018) (in en). Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition. Jaypee Brothers Medical Publishers. ISBN 978-93-5270-499-6. OCLC 1050280101. https://books.google.com/books?id=B3OSDwAAQBAJ. 

External links