terpin hydrate

[ tur-pin ]

noun

, Pharmacology.

1. a white, crystalline powder, C 10 H 20 O 2 ⋅H 2 O, usually used in combination with codeine, as an expectorant.

Word History and Origins

Origin of terpin hydrate¹

First recorded in 1865–70; terp(ene) + -in ²

Example Sentences

Q: I took terpin hydrate as a kid many years ago.

From Seattle Times

A: Terpin hydrate was a popular cough medicine from the 1880s till the 1990s.

From Seattle Times

Although terpin hydrate is no longer available over the counter, doctors can prescribe it and compounding pharmacies can prepare it.

From Seattle Times

Veterans Affairs prescribed terpin hydrate with codeine.

From Seattle Times

A: Terpin hydrate is no longer available, as the Food and Drug Administration decided that there wasn’t enough evidence of effectiveness.

From Seattle Times