Original scientific paper

pH, Titratable Acidity and Total Soluble Solid Content of Pediatric Antitussive Medicines

Alessandro Leite Cavalcanti ; Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
Ligia Virgilio Fernandes ; undergraduate student, Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
Ariel Siqueira Barbosa ; undergraduate student, Department of Paediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil
Fernando Fernandes Vieira ; Department of Analytical Chemistry, School of Chemistry, State University of Paraiba, Campina Grande, PB, Brazil

Abstract

Objectives: This in vitro experimental study evaluated the endogenous pH, titratable acidity and total soluble solids content (TSSC) of pediatric antitussive medicines presented as syrups. Materials and Methods: Seven medicines were evaluated by a random experiment with 3 repetitions for each sample. pH analysis was performed by potentiometry and buffering capacity was assessed by dilution of each medicine. Increments of 0.1 N KOH were titrated until neutrality was reached. TSSC readings were performed by Brix refractometry using the Abbé refractometer. Results: pH values ranged from 2.65 (Mucolin®) to 6.56 (Fluimucil®) and four medicines showed pH below the critical value of 5.5. The titratable acidity values ranged from 0.061 (Fluimucil®) to 0.467 (Ambroxmel®). Fluimucil® presented the lowest TSSC content (4.33%) and Mucofan® presented the highest TSSC content (53.41%). Conclusions: Many pediatric antitussives showed pH below the critical value, high titratable values and high sugar concentration, which may increase their cariogenic and erosive potentials in case of inadequate administration of these products to children.

Keywords

Pharmaceutical Preparations; Sweetening Agents; Administration, Oral; Tooth Erosion; Dental Caries; Antitusive Agents

Hrčak ID:

25870

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/25870

Publication date:

15.6.2008.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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