Basics of Compounding for Cough
Author(s): Allen Loyd V Jr
Issue: Nov/Dec 2004 - Endotoxin
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Page(s): 462-465
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Abstract: Cough is a symptom of a number of pathologic conditions, including infections and pulmonary, cardiac, and gastrointestinal disorders. It also can be caused by medication. While numerous prescription and nonprescription treatments for cough are available, these are not suitable for all patients in all situations. Extemporaneous compounding allows preparation of customized formulations that contains a variety of difference components in a dosage form convenient for the patient. Formulas and methods are provided for several frequently prescribed compounds. The initial step in treating cough is eliminating exposure to any irritant or discontinuing any medication that might be causing the cough. Depending on the cause of the cough, drug therapies include antihistamines (with or without decongestant), intranasal or oral corticosteroids, antibiotics, bronchodilators, topical volatile agents (eg, camphor, menthol, thymol), guaifenesin (antitussive/expectorant), or centrally acting drugs that suppress the cough reflex (codeine sulfate, dextromorphan hydrobromide, hydrocodone bitartrate, hydromorphone hydrochloride).
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