Author: ZHAO Yuanzhi

Publisher: People's Daily 

Date: April 1, 2025

As seasonal weather changes lead to an uptick in cold cases, the demand for effective remedies has surged, particularly for Yinqiao antipyretic granules. Wang Jinghao, the director of the pharmacy department at the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, informed People's Daily Health Client that this comparatively modestly packaged product has achieved remarkable success, boasting annual sales exceeding 300,000 bottles.

Overview of Yinqiao Antipyretic Granules

Zheng Xiaofei, director of the First Affiliated Hospital, detailed that Yinqiao antipyretic granules are a traditional Chinese medicine preparation designed primarily to combat wind heat and cold symptoms. The formulation is a modern reinterpretation of the classical Yinqiao powder, originally documented in Wu Jutong's Item Differentiation of Epidemic Febrile Diseases during the Qing Dynasty. The primary ingredients include honeysuckle and Forsythia suspensa, supplemented by medicinal herbs such as talc and mint. This preparation is aimed at clearing heat, detoxifying, and alleviating symptoms.

Zheng emphasized that the granules, improved for palatability to cater to children, have been safely utilized in clinical practice for over 30 years without any significant adverse reaction reports. He described the formulation as a “secret formula” etched into the clinical practices of doctors for decades and a staple in hospital employees' homes.

Efficacy and Convenience

The humid and warm climate of the Lingnan region predisposes residents to upper respiratory issues, often manifesting as fever, sore throat, and headaches, making Yinqiao antipyretic granules particularly effective for such ailments. Wang Jinghao noted a particularly high demand, with some patients traveling significant distances within Guangzhou to purchase the granules.

To sustain this increase in demand, Zheng Xiaofei highlighted proactive measures the hospital takes, such as forecasting weather patterns to adjust inventory levels, collaborating with pharmaceutical companies to boost production, and introducing automated dispensing machines to reduce wait times for medication collection. Presently, Yinqiao antipyretic granules are accessible nationwide via Internet hospitals, allowing for direct delivery to patients after online consultations. However, it is important to note that while offline purchases are supported by medical insurance, online purchases are not yet eligible for such coverage.

Looking ahead, Zheng disclosed plans to raise monthly production capacity to between 50,000 and 70,000 bottles and to extend the shelf life of the granules from one year to two. This move aims to instill greater confidence in consumers for maintaining well-stocked family medicine cabinets.

A Broader Range of Hospital Preparations

Beyond Yinqiao antipyretic granules, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University has developed 18 additional in-house preparations, such as compound licorice mixture, cod liver oil ointment, and compound menthol nasal drops. These preparations have also gained popularity for treating various common ailments, including colds, coughs, skin cracks, and chronic rhinitis, becoming household staples for many families.

Zheng Xiaofei stated that the hospital is currently collaborating closely with university research teams to delve deeper into the mechanisms of action of these medications, aiming to elucidate their therapeutic effectiveness through modern medical frameworks. This initiative is intended to provide robust support for the ongoing promotion and application of these essential drugs.

The growing popularity of Yinqiao antipyretic granules and other hospital preparations demonstrates a significant shift towards the utilization of effective traditional remedies within modern healthcare frameworks. With strategic plans for enhanced production, research collaboration, and increased accessibility, the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University is not only responding to the immediate needs of patients but is also setting a foundation for future innovations in healthcare and medicine.