What
are Gargles?
Gargles
as a class of preparations are aqueous solutions employed form
treating the pharynx and nasopharynx by forcing air from the lungs
through the gargle which is held in the throat. Many mouth washes are
used as gargles either as is or diluted with water. Many gargles are
diluted with water prior to its use.
What
are Washes?
Washes
are mostly aqueous in nature containing some alcohol or glycerin
present to aid in solubilization of volatile substance. Mouth wash
are usually pleasantly flavored solutions and are often colored and
may be either acidic or basic in reaction. They are often employed
for deodorant, refreshing or antiseptic effect. Local anti-infective
agents as hexetidine and cetylpyridinium chloride are added to
commercial mouth wash.
Example
of Washes:
NF
MOUTHWASH
NF
Mouthwash is also known as Alkline Aromatic Solution NF II,
Liquor Aromaticus Alkalinus, Liquor Antisepticus Alkalinus NF IV, and
Alkaline Antiseptic Solution.
Formula:
Potassium
Bicarbonate 20 g
Sodium
Borate 20 g
Thymol 0.5 g
Eucalyptol
1.0 ml
Methyl
salicylate 0.5 ml
Amaranth
Solution 14 ml
Alcohol
50 ml
Glycerin
100 ml
Purified
Water, q.s. ___________
To make
1000 ml
Preparation:
Dissolve
the potassium bicarbonate and sodium borate in 100ml purified water,
add the glycerin when effervescence has ceased, add the mixture to
500ml purified water. Dissolve the other ingredients in the alcohol,
and add the solution of salts to the alcoholic solution with
agitation. Then add sufficient quantity of purified water to make the
product measure 1000ml. Allow the mixture to stand, with occasional
shaking during 24 hours. Filter using talc, if necessary to produce a
clear solution.
Possible
Uses: Antibacterial mouthwash, nasal douche and throat gargle
which is approximately isotonic with body fluids and therefore
non-irritant to the mucous membranes. For oral use undiluted; dental
spray diluted with 5 volumes of water.
