Elixir


An elixir is a clear, sweet-flavored liquid used for medical purposes, to be taken orally and intended to cure one's illness. When used as a pharmaceutical preparation, an elixir contains at least one active ingredient designed to be taken orally.

Etymology

The word was introduced in late Middle English, through Latin from Arabic al-ʾiksīr, which in turn is the Arabization of Greek xērion "powder for drying wounds".

Types

Non-medicated elixirs

They are used as solvents or vehicles for the preparation of medicated elixirs: aromatic elixirs, isoalcoholic elixirs, or compound benzaldehyde elixirs. Active ingredient dissolved in a solution that contains 15 to 50% by volume of ethyl alcohol.

Medicated elixirs

Daily non-alcoholic non-caffeinated 'vitamin drinks' have been popular in East Asia since the 1950s, with Oronamin from Otsuka Pharmaceutical perhaps the market leader. Packaged in brown light-proof bottles, these drinks have the reputation of being enjoyed by old men and other health-conscious individuals. Counterparts exist in South Korea and China.
Western energy drinks typically have caffeine and are targeted at a younger demographic, with colorful labels and printed claims of increased athletic/daily performance.

Composition

An elixir is a hydro-alcoholic solution of at least one active ingredient. The alcohol is mainly used to:
The lowest alcoholic quantity that will dissolve completely the active ingredient and give a clear solution is generally chosen. High concentrations of alcohol give burning taste to the final product.
An elixir may also contain the following excipients:
Elixirs should be stored in a tightly closed, light resistant container away from direct heat and sunlight.