INORGANIC PHARMACEUTICALS
Introduction to Inorganic Pharmaceuticals:
Inorganic pharmaceuticals are medicinal compounds that do not primarily contain carbon. They are used in treatment, diagnosis, and maintenance of normal body functions.
They include haematinics, gastrointestinal agents, antacids, cathartics, disinfectants, dental products, and medicinal gases.
Haematinics:
Haematinics increase haemoglobin levels and are used in iron deficiency anaemia.
Classification of Haematinics:
- Iron Preparations: Oral (Ferrous sulphate, Ferrous fumarate, Carbonyl iron), Parenteral (Iron dextran, Ferric carboxymaltose)
- Maturation Factors: Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin, Methylcobalamin), Folic acid
- Growth Factors: Erythropoietin
Important Iron Preparations:
- Ferrous Sulphate: Treats iron deficiency anaemia; green crystals; oxidizes on exposure
- Ferrous Fumarate: Stable iron salt with less gastric irritation
- Ferric Ammonium Citrate: Water-soluble and less irritant
- Ferrous Ascorbate: Enhanced absorption due to Vitamin C
- Carbonyl Iron: Pure elemental iron supplement
Gastrointestinal Agents:
Used to treat hyperacidity, diarrhoea, constipation, and indigestion.
Antacids:
Antacids neutralise excess gastric acid and provide relief in acidity and ulcers.
Examples of Antacids:
- Aluminium hydroxide gel
- Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
- Magaldrate
- Calcium carbonate
- Sodium bicarbonate (systemic antacid)
Acidifying Agents:
Used to increase acidity. Dilute hydrochloric acid is used in achlorhydria.
Protectives and Adsorbents:
- Bismuth subcarbonate
- Kaolin
Cathartics:
- Magnesium sulphate
- Sodium potassium tartrate
Topical Agents:
- Silver nitrate
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Boric acid
- Chlorhexidine
- Potassium permanganate
Dental Products::
Include dentifrices, fluoride agents, denture cleaners, and mouthwashes used for oral hygiene and cavity prevention.
Medicinal Gases:
- Oxygen
- Nitrous oxide
- Carbon dioxide
Used in anaesthesia, respiratory therapy, and emergency care.
