Abstract

AYURVEDIC REVIEW OF FACTORS AFFECTING DRUG DOSAGE

Dr. Himani and Dr. Rosy Gupta

ABSTRACT

Treatment of a disease generally depends upon various factors related to the disease, the diseased and the drug. Out of these the drug related factors like dosage, time and route of administration and proper way of administration (yukti) need special concern as Aushadh (Drug) is one among the four chatushpada mentioned in Ayurveda text. Drug dosage is of prime most importance among these drug related factors as same amount can’t be given to all on generalized basis. In Ayurveda even the Ahaarmatra is given importance and is considered a subjective matter. Then Aushadh matra is still more important, as a small variation in drug dosage can have far reaching consequences upon body tissues as compared to the food articles. As per Ayurveda drug dosage varies from person to person depending upon various factors like Dosha, Agni, Bala, Vaya, Vyadhi, Satmya, Satva, Koshtha etc. which will be discussed in this article. These factors can be compiled under Balcatustaya namely Dehabala, Agnibala, Chittabala, and Rogabala. Apart from these Rog bala /Dosha bala and Rogibala gaze factors Aushadh, Aushadh kalpana (Drug Preparation), time and route of administration of drugs also need to pay attention to decide the drug dosage. Medicines used in personalised dose regime cure diseases without posing any problem. Whereas medicines in excess dose will have toxic effects and in low dose will remain insufficient to treat the disease. It is the matra (dose) only by which visha becomes amruta and vice versa.

Keywords: Aushadha Matra (Drug dose), Visha, Agni, Dasavidha Aatura Pariksha.