Ammonium Chloride
AMMONIUM CHLORIDE
Overview:
Ammonium chloride is a medication and chemical compound that helps loosen mucus in the lungs and maintain the body’s acid balance. It’s frequently utilized in cough syrups as an expectorant, that is, a substance that helps to loosen stubborn mucus so it can be coughed up.
Physicians may utilize ammonium chloride to address a condition known as metabolic alkalosis. Here, the medicine is helping the body return to its rightful acid equilibrium.
Though it’s typically safe in accordance with the directions, it ought to be consumed cautiously—in particular, in individuals with kidney/liver/heart issues.
Classification: Acidifier and expectorant
Uses:
To loosen and thin mucus in the lungs, helping to clear chest congestion
Help restore acid-base balance in the body when it becomes too alkaline (a condition called metabolic alkalosis)
How It Works:
Ammonium chloride works in two main ways:
As an expectorant, it irritates the mucous membranes to promote the removal of mucus from the airways, making it easier to cough out.
As an acidifying agent, it increases the level of acid in the blood and urine, helping correct imbalances in the body’s chemistry.
Dosage: As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects:
Some people may experience:
Stomach upset or nausea
Vomiting
Fatigue or weakness
Irritability
If taken in large amounts or for long periods, it can affect blood pH or kidney function
Precautions:
Should be used with caution in people with kidney disease, liver problems, or high blood pressure
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless prescribed
People on low-sodium diets should use it carefully, as it may raise sodium levels
Always follow the prescribed dose, and avoid self-medicating
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride
DIPHENHYDRAMINE
Overview
Diphenhydramine is a commonly used medicine to treat allergic reactions, cold symptoms, and itching. It also acts as a sleep aid and helps relieve motion sickness or nausea. It’s available in various forms, including tablets, syrups, creams, and injections.
Classification
Antihistamine
Uses
Eases allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and hives
Soothes skin irritation and itching due to insect bites, rashes, or eczema
Helps with insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
Used to prevent and manage motion sickness
Relieves cough and cold symptoms when combined with other ingredients
Sometimes used for mild anxiety or restlessness
How It Works
Diphenhydramine works by blocking histamine, a natural substance your body releases during allergic reactions. It also affects certain brain chemicals to cause drowsiness, which helps with sleep and reduces motion-related nausea or dizziness.
Dosage
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects
Common effects may include:
Drowsiness or sleepiness
Dry mouth, nose, or throat
Dizziness or blurred vision
Upset stomach or constipation
Feeling groggy or uncoordinated, especially in older adults
Precautions
Can cause drowsiness—avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking
Should be used cautiously in older adults, as it may cause confusion or falls
Let your doctor know if you have asthma, glaucoma, high blood pressure, or an enlarged prostate
Avoid alcohol and other sedatives while using this medicine
Not usually recommended for children under 6 without medical advice
If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
Ethanol
ETHANOL
Overview
Ethanol is a clear, fast-evaporating liquid used in a variety of settings—from sanitizers and medicines to cosmetics and cleaning products. In the medical world, it’s often included as a base for liquid medications, a disinfectant, or an ingredient to help other substances dissolve and mix well.
Classification
Ethanol is a type of alcohol commonly used as a disinfectant, solvent, and preservative in medical and personal care products. It’s also known as ethyl alcohol.
Uses
Acts as a hand and surface disinfectant due to its ability to kill germs
Used as a solvent in cough syrups, tinctures, and other liquid medicines
Found in antiseptic wipes, sanitizers, and rubbing alcohol
Included in cosmetics, perfumes, and aftershaves as a base
Also used industrially in cleaning agents and fuel mixtures
How It Works
Ethanol works by breaking down the protective membranes of bacteria and viruses, effectively killing or deactivating them. As a solvent, it helps dissolve active ingredients so they can be absorbed more efficiently. It also evaporates quickly, leaving no residue behind.
Dosage
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects
Depending on how it’s used, ethanol may cause:
Dryness, redness, or irritation when applied to skin
Burning sensation on broken or sensitive skin
Headache or dizziness if inhaled in large amounts
If ingested inappropriately: nausea, vomiting, confusion, or drowsiness
Precautions
For external use only unless specifically formulated for consumption (e.g., in small amounts in medicines)
Keep away from eyes, open wounds, and flames or heat sources (it’s highly flammable)
Repeated use on skin can cause dryness or irritation—use a moisturizer afterward if needed
Not safe for children to ingest or use unsupervised
Avoid combining with other alcohol-based products unless advised by a healthcare professional
Store in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
Sodium Citrate
SODIUM CITRATE
Overview
Sodium Citrate is a type of salt that helps make body fluids less acidic.It’s often used to relieve discomfort from too much acid in the stomach or urine. It comes in liquid, tablet, or powder form.
Classification
It belongs to a group of medicines called alkalinizers or urinary alkalinizers. These help reduce acidity in the body.
Uses
To treat acid indigestion or heartburn (burning feeling in the chest)
To make urine less acidic, which can help prevent kidney stones or irritation
Sometimes used before certain medical tests like urine tests or surgeries
In hospitals, it may also be used to manage metabolic acidosis (a condition where the body makes too much acid)
How It Works
Sodium Citrate works by turning into bicarbonate in the body. This helps neutralize or balance out excess acid in the stomach or urine. It makes the body’s environment more alkaline (less acidic), which can reduce pain or irritation caused by acid.
Dosage
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects
Mild side effects (usually from too much):
Swelling (especially in hands, feet)
High blood pressure
Feeling bloated or puffy
Serious but rare side effects:
Trouble breathing
Chest tightness
Fast heartbeat
Confusion or seizures (if sodium levels get too high or too low)
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, kidney problems, or high blood pressure
Don’t use too much — too much salt can be harmful
If on a low-sodium diet, check with your doctor first
Follow the dosage exactly if using nasal sprays or IV fluid
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
