Products
Cineol is approved as a monopreparation in the form of soft capsules (Soledum / Soledum forte). In many countries, the capsules were registered in 2018. In Germany, the product has been available for some time. In addition, combination preparations are also available. Cineol is also contained in eucalyptus oil. This article refers to the capsules.
Structure and properties
1,8-Cineole (C10H18O, Mr = 154.3 g/mol) exists as a clear, colorless liquid that is practically insoluble in water. Cineol is miscible with ethanol 96%. The substance is also known as eucalyptol. Cineol is the main component of eucalyptus essential oil, which is extracted from eucalyptus leaves. It is a cyclic ether and a monoterpene, i.e., an isoprenoid. Cineole is also found in other essential oils, such as rosemary oil.
Effects
Cineole has expectorant, expectorant, antibacterial, antiviral, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It reaches the respiratory tract through the bloodstream.
Uses
- For expectoration in acute respiratory colds such as productive cough.
- For additional treatment in chronic or inflammatory colds such as sinusitis and bronchitis.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The capsules are usually taken 30 minutes before eating, or with food if you have a sensitive stomach.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Whooping cough
- Pseudocroup
- Children: depending on the preparation
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Cineole may induce metabolizing enzymes in the liver. Interference with the pharmacokinetics of other agents cannot be ruled out.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include occasional gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea and rarely hypersensitivity reactions.
