Dr. MOM

Doctor MOM is a complex herbal preparation containing dry extracts from various herbs and plants.

This drug is often used in traditional medicine as a mucolytic, anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator, especially in the treatment of respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma. Different components can have different therapeutic effects, such as reducing inflammation, thinning sputum, reducing cough, etc.

Indications Dr. MOM

1. Respiratory: Used to relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions such as cough, congestion, runny nose, bronchitis, asthma and others.
2. Throat and Pharynx: Can be used to reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat, reducing pain in throat diseases such as pharyngitis, laryngitis, etc.
3. Anti-inflammatory effects: The plant extracts contained in the product can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in various parts of the body.
4. Antimicrobial properties: Some components of the drug have antimicrobial properties, which can help fight infections caused by bacteria or viruses.
5. Mucolytic properties: The drug can help thin mucus and facilitate its discharge, which is useful for respiratory diseases.
6. Immunomodulatory action: Some components can help strengthen the immune system and increase the body's resistance to infections.

Release form

1. Tablets or lozenges: This form is convenient for consumption and dosage. Tablets may contain the above extracts in precisely measured quantities for daily use.
2. Syrup: Dr. MOM liquid form usually contains the same active ingredients as tablets and is preferred for children or adults who have difficulty swallowing solid forms of medication. Syrup makes swallowing easier and starts working faster.
3. Lollipops or mints: This form is also popular for relieving sore throats and coughs, as the slow dissolution allows the medication to remain in contact with the lining of the throat for a long time.
4. Ointment for external use: Ointment "Doctor MOM" can be used for rubbing in case of runny and stuffy nose, as well as for easing breathing.

Pharmacodynamics

1. Adhatoda vasika: Used in traditional medicine as an expectorant and anti-inflammatory. Its action is usually associated with improved respiratory function.
2. Aloe barbadensis: Has anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat wounds, burns, and various skin problems.
3. Holy Basil (Ocinum sanctum): Known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties, it is also considered an antioxidant.
4. Elecampane (Inula racemosa): Has mucolytic (mucus-thinning) and anti-inflammatory properties, which may be useful for respiratory conditions.
5. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): Has anti-inflammatory and antiemetic properties. Traditionally used to relieve symptoms of flu and colds.
6. Curcuma longa: Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin, found in turmeric, is considered the key active component.
7. Indian nightshade (Solanum indicum): Has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. Traditionally used to treat various respiratory diseases.
8. Cubeb pepper (Piper cubeba): Used in traditional medicine as a respiratory stimulant and antiseptic.
9. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Has anti-inflammatory, antitussive, and analgesic properties. May also help soothe throat irritation.
10. Terminalia belerica: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
11. Levomenthol: Has a cooling and analgesic effect, commonly used to relieve symptoms of respiratory diseases.

Pharmacokinetics

1. Adhatoda vasika: Adhatoda vasika pharmacokinetic studies have not been conducted to a sufficient extent to draw definitive conclusions about its kinetics.
2. Aloe barbadensis: The pharmacokinetics of Aloe barbadensis have also not been sufficiently studied to provide complete information on its kinetics.
3. Holy Basil (Ocinum sanctum): Also known as tulsi, holy basil has great importance in Ayurvedic medicine. Its pharmacokinetics are not well understood, but some studies point to its extensive metabolic diversity and potential role in pharmacokinetic interactions.
4. Inula racemosa: Inula racemosa has various pharmacokinetic properties, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. However, detailed pharmacokinetic studies of this plant have not been conducted.
5. Ginger (Zingiber officinale): The pharmacokinetics of ginger have been studied. The main components of ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, may have different pharmacokinetic properties.
6. Curcuma longa: Turmeric, containing curcumin, is the active component studied in pharmacokinetic studies. Its absorption, metabolism, and excretion are well documented.
7. Indian Nightshade (Solanum indicum): The pharmacokinetics of Indian nightshade have also not been fully studied, although some studies have classified it as an antioxidant and antibacterial agent.
8. Cubeb Pepper (Piper cubeba): The pharmacokinetics of piper cubeba are not well studied and more research is needed to understand its kinetics.
9. Naked licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Naked licorice has been well studied pharmacokinetically. Its main active component, glycyrrhizic acid, has well-studied metabolism and elimination characteristics.
10. Terminalia belerica: The pharmacokinetics of Terminalia belerica also require further study to obtain a complete picture of its kinetic parameters.

Dosing and administration

General recommendations for the method of use and dosage of this drug, although exact instructions may vary depending on the form of release (syrup, tablets, ointment, lozenges):

Syrup

• Adults and children over 12 years: Take 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) of syrup every 4-6 hours, no more than 6 times a day.
• Children 6 to 12 years: Take 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of syrup every 4 to 6 hours, no more than 6 times a day.
• Children under 6 years: The use and dosage should be clarified by the doctor.

Tablets or lozenges

• Adults and children over 12 years: 1 tablet or lozenge every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 6 tablets per day.
• Children 6 to 12 years old: The dosage should be clarified by a doctor.

Ointment

• Apply a thin layer of ointment to the chest and back to ease breathing, or to the skin under the nose to relieve congestion. Use up to three times daily.

Lollipops

• Dissolve one lozenge every 2-3 hours as needed.

General recommendations

• Do not exceed the recommended dose.
• Consult a doctor if allergy symptoms occur or if symptoms persist for more than 7 days.
• Carefully monitor the body's reaction to the drug, especially in children and individuals with sensitivity to the product's components.

Use Dr. MOM during pregnancy

The use of Dr. MOM (dry extracts of plants including Adathoda wasiculata, Aloe barbadensis, Holy basil, Inula racemosa, Zingiber officinale, Curcuma longa, Solanum indica, Cubebu pepper, Licorice glabra, Terminalia belerica, Levomenthol) during pregnancy may be associated with certain risks. It is important to consider the following:

1. General information about herbs: The use of herbal remedies during pregnancy and lactation may pose risks to both the mother and the fetus or infant, as some herbs may cause abortion, premature birth, uterine bleeding, and physical and mental retardation in the fetus. This is highlighted in a study conducted among pregnant and lactating women in the West Bank (Eid & Jaradat, 2020).

2. Specific herbs:

   • Ginger: Although often used to reduce morning sickness during pregnancy, studies show that ginger is not teratogenic, but its mutagenicity is a matter of debate due to its content of mutagenic and antimutagenic compounds.
   • Turmeric and Aloe: These herbs are used to treat and prevent a variety of conditions, but there is limited data on their safety during pregnancy.

Therefore, the use of Dr. MOM syrup during pregnancy requires caution and consultation with a doctor.

Contraindications

1. Individual intolerance or allergy to any of the components of the drug. Given the presence of many plant components, it is important to make sure that the patient is not allergic to any of them.
2. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Some of the ingredients, such as aloe and basil, may have a stimulating effect on the uterus or pass into breast milk, potentially causing harm to the fetus or infant.
3. Paediatrics. Some forms of the drug may not be suitable for use in young children due to the risk of side effects or overdose.
4. Acute gastrointestinal diseases, including peptic ulcers. Some of the ingredients, such as ginger and turmeric, can stimulate the secretion of gastric juice, which can worsen symptoms in the presence of gastrointestinal diseases.
5. Severe liver or kidney disease. The metabolism and excretion of the components of the drug may be impaired in the presence of existing liver or kidney problems.

The drug should also be used with caution in people with diabetes, as some components, such as licorice, may affect blood glucose levels.

Side effects Dr. MOM

1. Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face or lips, difficulty breathing. Plants such as Aloe barbadensis, holy basil may cause sensitivity in some people.
2. Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Some ingredients, such as ginger and turmeric, may cause stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea when consumed in large quantities or on an empty stomach.
3. Hypertensive reactions: Naked licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which may increase blood pressure if consumed in excess.
4. Long-term Use: Long-term use of some herbs, such as licorice, may cause adrenal dysfunction or changes in electrolyte levels.
5. Stomach sensitivity or pain: This is especially true for ingredients that may stimulate gastric secretion or cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract.

Overdose

1. Vomiting and nausea: Due to irritation of the stomach and digestive system.
2. Diarrhea: Possibly due to the abrasive action of some herbal extracts.
3. Allergic reactions: Including skin rash, itching, and swelling of the face or throat.
4. Muscle hypertonicity and tremors: May be associated with excessive effects of some components on the central nervous system.
5. Respiratory disorders: In case of allergic reaction or airway obstruction.
6. Increased blood pressure: Possibly due to the effect of some components on the cardiovascular system.
7. Convulsions and dizziness: As a result of changes in electrolyte balance and central nervous excitation.
8. Increased sweating: Due to the cooling effect of levomenthol.

Interactions with other drugs

1. Drugs affecting hematopoiesis: Some plants contained in Doctor MOM may affect hematopoiesis, so their use should be carried out with caution in combination with anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents.
2. Cardiovascular Drugs: Some herbs may affect the cardiovascular system and should be used with caution in combination with heart medications.
3. Drugs affecting the liver: Some components may affect liver function, so they should be used with caution in combination with other drugs affecting this organ.
4. CNS drugs: Be aware that some herbs may have a sedative or stimulant effect on the central nervous system, so they should be used with caution with other CNS drugs.
5. Photosensitizing drugs: Some plants may increase photosensitivity of the skin, so the use of Dr. MOM may require special caution when used in combination with other drugs that increase photosensitivity.
6. Drugs that affect the gastrointestinal tract: Various herbs can affect the gastrointestinal tract, so they should be used with caution with other drugs that may cause stomach irritation or ulcers.