Latin, Colocynthis (Gen., Colocynthidis)

Eng., Colocynth. Synonym, Bitter Apple. The peeled dried fruit of Citrullus Colocynthis.

Average Dose

1 grain (0.06 Gm.).

Official Preparations.

Extractum Colocynthidis

Eng., Extract of Colocynth. Average Dose.-1/2 grain (0.03 Gm.).

Extractum Colocynthidis Compositum

Eng., Compound Extract of Colocynth. Extract of, Colocynth, 160 Gm.; Aloes, 500 Gm.; Resin of Scammony, 140 Gm.; Cardamom Seed, 50 Gm.; Powdered Soap, 150 Gm. A bitter, brownish powder.

Average Dose

4 grains (0.25 Gm.).

Compound Extract of Colocynth is a constituent in the official Pilulae Catharticae Compositae.

Therapeutic Action

Purgative of the hydragogue, drastic, and possibly cholagogue type.

1 Stelwagon: Diseases of the Skin.

2 Ibid.

Uses

Employed almost exclusively in combination with other agents to produce purgation.

Administration

Compound Extract of Colocynth is seldom prescribed alone, but it is sometimes used with other purgative agents. The full U. S. P. dose is not often employed. It is very apt to produce griping. Combinations like the following are used:

As a postoperative laxative:

M. ft. cap. no. x. Sig.-One at bedtime.

As a purgative:

M. ft. cap. no. iij. Sig.-One every hour.