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A demulcent cough drop

A demulcent (derived from the Latin: demulcere "caress"), sometimes called a mucoprotective agent, is a mucilaginous or oleaginous preparation[1] that forms a soothing protective film over a mucous membrane, relieving minor pain and inflammation of the membrane.[2][3][4] However, they generally help for less than 30 minutes.[5]

Demulcents are sometimes referred to as mucoprotective agents. Demulcents such as pectin, glycerin, honey, and syrup are common ingredients in cough mixtures and cough drops.[6]

Examples

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Natural demulcents include slippery elm, pectin, licorice-root and marsh-mallow (Althaea officinalis).

Synthetic demulcents include methylcellulose, propylene glycol, and glycerin.

References

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  1. ^ "Definition of DEMULCENT". Merriam-Webster.com. Retrieved 2022-02-19.
  2. ^ Mandel, I. D. (1987). "The Functions of Saliva". Journal of Dental Research. 66 (2 suppl): 623–627. doi:10.1177/00220345870660S203. ISSN 0022-0345. PMID 3497964. S2CID 23498530.
  3. ^ Sakamoto, C (2004). "The role of mucoprotective drugs in gastric ulcer treatment: with specific reference to their effects on gastritis mucosa". Nippon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine. 62 (3): 566–70. PMID 15038105.
  4. ^ "Drug profile of noval antiulcer and mucoprotective drug with anti helicobacter property: Sofalcone | Pharmainfo.net". www.pharmainfo.net. Archived from the original on 2011-07-23. Retrieved 2025-06-22.
  5. ^ Frye, R; Bailey, J; Blevins, AE (May 2011). "Clinical inquiries. Which treatments provide the most relief for pharyngitis pain?". The Journal of Family Practice. 60 (5): 293–4. PMID 21544279.
  6. ^ Boyd, Eldon M. (1952). "Cough medication and antihistaminic drugs". Can Med Assoc J. 67 (4): 289–92. PMC 1822606. PMID 13009543.

Further reading

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Nin Jiom Pei Pa Koa

relief of sore throat, coughs, hoarseness and aphonia. It is a throat demulcent and expectorant. The brand diversified to also produces a number of other

Grewia asiatica

used in refining sugar, for making ropes and its infusion is used as a demulcent. The leaves are used as an application to pustular eruptions. The buds

Throat lozenge

lozenges generally use either zinc gluconate glycine or pectin as an oral demulcent. Honey lozenges are also available. The purpose of the throat lozenge

Maize

Maize (/ˈmeɪz/; Zea mays), also known as corn, is a tall stout grass that produces cereal grain. The leafy stalk of the plant gives rise to male inflorescences

Ulmus rubra

long been used as a demulcent, and is still marketed commercially for this purpose in the United States as an over-the-counter demulcent. The leaves may be

Liquorice

Liquorice (Commonwealth English) or licorice (American English; see spelling differences; IPA: /ˈlɪkərɪʃ, -ɪs/ LIK-ər-ish, -⁠iss) is the common name of

Elm

inner bark of the slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) has long been used as a demulcent, and is still produced commercially for this purpose in the US with approval

Honey

Honey is a sweet and viscous substance made by several species of bees, the best-known of which are honey bees. Honey is made and stored to nourish bee