Menthol And Eucalyptus Inhalation

Question 1

The PIL says that the product should not be used after 6 months from opening, so why is this? Please explain why the shelf life for this product is not longer.

Answer 1

• After 6 months the product is susceptible to moisture degradation as there is no preservative included

Question 2

What is the function of magnesium carbonate in this product?

Answer 2

• magnesium carbonate can act as a mineral to absorb volatile substances for inhalation

Question 3

There are no excipients to enhance the palatability of the product, why is this?

Answer 3

• Menthol and eucalyptus are already palatable flavours, so no extra palatability excipients are needed
• The product is to be inhaled not taken orally, so no extra palatability excipients are needed

Question 4

Why should the product be added to hot water before use?

Answer 4

• The active ingredients decongestants and help ease breathing difficulties when inhaled. The addition of the hot water allows the formation of steam so inhalation is then possible.

Question 5

This inhalation product is an example of a flocculated system. What happens to the dispersed phase in a flocculated system and why is it especially important to shake the product before use?

Answer 5

• In a flocculated system rate of sedimentation is high so a sediment will form rapidly. By shaking the bottle it redisperses and allows even drug distribution of the product before the patient adds it to water

Question 6

When made extemporaneously what additional safety labels should be added to the dispensed label for this medicine?

Answer 6

• SHAKE WELL BEFORE USE

* NOT TO BE TAKEN ORALLY