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Has anyone ever used SSKI to loosen congestion?

It's an old formula that if your doctor or pharmacist is younger than 60 years old they'll scratch their heads. It's by prescription only.

  1. Hi HOPS and thanks for posting the question.
    I remember SSKI from many years ago. I used to work the wards as a respiratory therapist and SSKI was something the doctors sometimes ordered in an attempt to help the patients with COPD to cough more productively.
    Currently, I have not seen in it use any longer. I'll be curious to see others responses too!

    WOW, that's a real 'blast from the past'.
    All the best,
    Leon (site mooderator)

    1. Hi HOPS -

      Like Leon it's been many years since I've even heard the term. I don't have any experience with it or know of anyone using it. The one thing I do remember was telling people to be very careful using it if they had any allergies to iodine, or potassium iodide as it could cause a serious reaction.

      I'll be interestexd to see if anyone else chimes in that has actually used it.

      Best,
      Lyn (moderator)

    2. So since you have had some experience with SSKI I was wondering how well it worked as an expectorant?

  2. PS HOPS.
    I should've indicated that SSKI stands for super saturated potassium iodide and, as an expectorant it's supposed to loosen up the thick mucus in the airways.
    Leon

    1. Hi grumred, and thanks for joining in this conversation about SSKI (supersaturated potassium iodide). It's good to hear you've found a way to continue using this and, that you feel it works well for you.

      When mixing this together on one's own, it's a good idea to be cautious and check in with one's physician and/or pharmacist prior to proceeding or ingesting it.

      We appreciate you sharing your personal experience with the community, grumred.

      All the best,
      Leon (site moderator)

    2. It does exist!! Only took 2 years to find someone who has hands on experience. So could you share how it is mixed and your opinion

  3. I know that you have to be careful in using it and was wondering if that is why it has fallen out of favor. Its currently becoming hard to find the straight plain tussin ( Gauifenesin) liquids. They all have DM or cough and cold additives I dont need and Musinex has pretty much cornered the market. Im not aware of any other liquid expectorant. Iwas reading an article that was saying how well SSKI worked but my DR. is younger and has no idea of its use So he wouldnt prescribe it. But if it works ( rather quickly from what I've read) I was up to giving it a try I know you only need a few drops in a glass of water or juice. But will see if its gone the way of the dodo. Thanks to Lynn and Leon may we can have it make a comeback . Leon how effect was SSKI in your estimation. Thanks Again HOPS

    1. Walgreens Mucus Relief E R. 1200 mg. Extended Release / Expectorant . Tablets .Just for mucus . Works for me .

    2. Hi again, carlton, and thanks for sharing the success you're having using this expectorant to treat your congestion with the community. We appreciate your input.
      All the best,
      Leon (site moderator COPD.net)

  4. Hi HOPS....the experience dates back to over 40 years ago. From what I do remember, some patients seemed to do well with it, while others saw no change. I don't see it being used nowadays at all anymore. You may want to ask your physician for his/her opinion. Warmly, Leon (site moderator)

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