Question

Write the procedure for using Stipites Laminaria drug. Indicate the species names from which drug was obtained.

Answer 1

Stipites Laminaria drug is also known as laminaria stalk which is the species Laminaria digitata .Preparations of the kelp Laminaria digitata are used as tents in gynecologic procedures to dilate the cervix .Laminarin is thought to function as the active ingredient in dilatation by changing osmotic pressure or uterine prostaglandin metabolism.

The Laminaria tent is manufactured by taking a 6 cm length of dried kelp stalk, about 2.5 to 4 mm in diameter, and attaching a string through a hole drilled 6 mm from the larger end. The tent is sterilized by ethylene oxide and sealed in plastic. For use, the tent is inserted into the cervix several hours before the procedure. As the cervix desiccates and dilates, the tent develops an hourglass shape.

During the laminaria insertion procedure, the patient is awake and positioned for a pelvic exam. The practitioner will use a speculum to open the vagina. He or she will then clean the cervix and apply a numbing medication. Once this is done, the laminaria tent is inserted into the cervix. After the procedure, the woman should rest for a few minutes, and can dress and go home when she feels able. The entire procedure takes about 10 minutes. Cramping and spotting may occur following the insertion. Patients should return within 24 hours.

Women who have a laminaria tent placed must return for their follow up visit. Laminaria should not be left in place for over 24 hours due to increased risk of infection and other complications. Patients should never attempt to remove the tent on their own or pull the string.

Laminaria digitata is the species names from which drug was obtained.

"Laminaria digitata" is a tough, leathery, dark brown seaweed that grows to two or three metres. The holdfast which anchors it to the rock is conical and has a number of spreading root-like protrusions called rhizoids. The "stipe or stalk "is flexible and oval in cross section and may be over 1 inch in diameter and grow to 5 feet in length. The blade is large and shaped like the palm of a hand with a number of more or less regular finger-like segments.