Paregoric

Paregoric, also known as Camphorated Opium Tincture, is a medicine known for its antidiarrhoeal and systemic properties.

The principal active ingredient of this mixture is morphine (~ 1%), with other ingredients being benzoic acid, camphor and anise oil.

The main effect of this preparation is to increase the muscular tone of the intestine, and also to inhibit normal peristalsis.

Its main use is as a cure for acute diarrhea as well as cough.

Paregoric is mainly of historical importance — it was devised in the 18th century, but can still be found in the US pharmacopoeia. During the 19th century it was a favourite household remedy that was widely used to calm fretful children. Paregoric could also mask symptoms of diseases that needed urgent medical attention, and is generally regarded as outdated.

Problems with its use include: possible opiate dependency.