Linctuses is a form of Liquid Dosage, prepared using Monophasic Liquid Preparation Method

Linctuses is a form of Liquid Dosage, prepared using Monophasic Liquid Preparation Method.

Linctuses are solutions of one or more medicaments, usually containing large amounts of sucrose, and sometimes glycerin as a sweetening agent, and also have a demulcent effect on the mucous membrane of the throat. The vehicle syrup has soothing effect on the soar mucous membrane of the throat.

Linctuses are usually intended for use in the treatment of cough, being sipped and swallowed slowly without the addition of water. For local and prolonged action, they should be administered undiluted and sipped and swallowed slowly. The usual dose of linctuses is 5.0 ml.

Dilution of Linctuses:

If a dose is prescribed which is less than or not a multiple of 5 ml, the linctus should be suitably diluted to achieve a dose-volume that is a multiple of 5.0 ml, using the specified diluent. They are diluted by syrup except codeine linctus. It is diluted by chloroform water. For this purpose chloroform water must be freshly prepared. Diluted linctuses should be used within two weeks of preparation, or any other period as may be specified. They contain following substances.

1. Vehicles: Syrup, tolu syrup, invert syrup, glycerin, chloroform water, sorbitol etc.

2. Stabilizers: Syrups

3. Coloring agents: Compound tartrazine solution, coal tar dyes, etc.

4. Flavoring agents: Tolu syrup, fruit flavored syrup, lemon syrup, blackcurrent syrup.

5. Preservatives: Benzoic acid, chloroform spirits, cinnamic acid, tolu syrup etc.

Example 01: Prepare and dispense Codeine Linctus

Method of Dispensing:

Dissolve the codeine phosphate in purified water and other additives to produce 100 ml.

Example 02: Prepare and dispense Paediatric Compound Tolu Linctus

Benzaldehyde spirit

Citric acid monohydrate

Compound tartrazine solution

Glycerol

Invert syrup

Tolu syrup, sufficient to produce 100.0 ml

Method of Dispensing:

Mix all ingredients except tolu syrup gradually one by one in a container and add tolu syrup sufficient to produce 100 ml.