What is a Pharmaceutical Mixture?
According to Pharmaceutics, A mixture is a liquid dosage form that contains one or more active pharmaceutical ingredients dissolved, suspended, or dispersed in a suitable vehicle (usually water or syrup).
These are oral preparations commonly used for their ease of administration, especially in pediatric and geriatric patients.
Examples of Pharmaceutical Mixtures:
- Paracetamol mixture [Antipyretic/analgesic]
- Magnesium hydroxide mixture [Antacid/laxative]
- Diphenhydramine elixir [Antihistamine]
- Kaolin and morphine mixture [Antidiarrheal]
- Codeine phosphate and citric acid mixture [Cough suppressant]
Advantages of Mixture:
- Easy to swallow.
- Fast absorption.
- Flexible dosing.
- Ideal for children and the elderly.
Disadvantages of Mixture:
- Short shelf life.
- Bulky to store and transport.
- Risk of microbial growth.
- Possible dose inaccuracy without a proper measuring device.
Types of Mixtures:
- Simple Mixtures
- Suspended Mixtures
- Emulsified Mixtures
- Compound Mixtures
Simple Mixtures (Solutions)
Soluble drugs are dissolved in water or syrup.Example: Paracetamol mixture.
Suspended Mixtures (Suspensions)
Insoluble drugs are dispersed in a vehicle.Require shaking before use.
Example: Magnesium hydroxide mixture (antacid).
Emulsified Mixtures (Emulsions)
Oil-in-water or water-in-oil systems.Require emulsifying agents.
Example: Castor oil emulsion.
Compound Mixtures
Contain multiple active ingredients for synergistic effects.Example: Compound sodium chloride and potassium citrate mixture (used in urinary tract infections).
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