Mucolytic cough medications: what are they and what are they?

Preference is not always given to such medications, since the composition does not contain natural ingredients. However, natural-based drugs also have side effects. Herbal medicines contain both beneficial components and toxic ones. Manifestations of allergic reactions to taking medications are not excluded.

Rapid recovery occurs by drinking plenty of warm drinks. Some mucolytic agents are diluted in warm water and taken orally. All types of medications are used by the patient after being prescribed by a doctor!

Release forms

Alleviation of the patient's condition is achieved by the following types of drugs:

• Antitussives. Otherwise called combined. Prescribed for dry cough that disturbs the patient's appetite and sleep.
• Expectorants. Prescribed for expectoration of non-viscous and liquid sputum.
• Mucolytic. The doctor prescribes such drugs during expectoration of thick mucus lodged in the bronchi.

You cannot combine the drugs described above without visiting a doctor. In some cases, combination drugs help the patient.

Mucolytic cough suppressants break down lumps in sputum and remove the liquefied consistency to the outside. The drugs act instantly, about an hour after ingestion.

The doctor writes a prescription for mucolytics if the patient is bothered by a cough. Mucolytics are used for bronchial respiratory diseases. The remedies alleviate bronchitis, pneumonia and tracheitis. List of this type of medicine and effects after use:

• Medicines that change the nature of secretions from the respiratory tract. The medicine thins the mucus.
• Increase mucus secretion.
• Reducing the amount of sputum.

Other drugs are strictly prohibited for use with this medicine. Mucolytic cough medications are not used if the patient suffers from a wet cough.

Good to know - What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Fluifort powder for coughs?

Mucolytic agents are produced in the following forms:

• Pills. Strictly prohibited for children under 6 years of age. Children from 6 to 11 years old can take mucolytic tablets 3 times a day. The tablet is usually taken after a meal, but can be taken during or before a meal. In this case, the patient should drink as much water as possible.
• Syrups. The mucolytic is approved for children under 6 years of age. During the period of 1-2 years, half a teaspoon. From 2 years old, a whole spoonful of syrup is allowed. Starting from 6 years of age, children can drink 2 teaspoons of mucolytic.
• Inhalations. Allowed 2 times a day. The drug is diluted by half with water and heated to 36 degrees. The procedure is often performed for preventive purposes.
• Nasal drops . Use drops with caution if the child is under 3 years old. For children, the product is dripped or sprayed into both nostrils 3-4 times a day.
• Solutions. Use as inhalation every day.

Operating principle

What is the difference between mucolytic drugs and others? Mothers choose medications for children with caution, studying their composition and principle of action in order to avoid allergies and other side effects.

Mucolytics destroy the connection between sputum molecules, diluting the clots accumulated in the bronchi.

Medicines with expectorant properties cause strong contractions in the bronchi. Therefore, sputum quickly leaves the respiratory tract. The use of mucolytic agents is recommended during complications of colds. Pneumonia and affected tissues of the respiratory tract are often treated in this way.

Basically, there are no side effects when taking mucolytic drugs. It is recommended to stop taking the drug if an allergic reaction occurs. Mucolytics should not be taken for longer than 3 weeks. Long-term use of this drug irritates the gastrointestinal tract. After some time, heartburn and flatulence caused by mucolytic agents disappear.

Some forms of mucolytics have anti-inflammatory effects in the respiratory system. However, the medicine is powerless in the case of purulent clots in the sputum.

The mucolytic is well absorbed by the body if consumed in the form of tablets or powder. In addition, the medicine does not contain toxins. The mucolytic is combined with anti-inflammatory drugs.

It is prohibited to use if the patient suffers from stomach and intestinal ulcers, severe kidney and liver diseases.

Cough remedies for adults (mucolytic), which contain plant alkaloids, actively stimulate cough. Sodium carbonate, one of the components of mucolytics, enhances the production of bronchial secretions.

Mucolytics work effectively together with folk remedies. However, simultaneous treatment is carried out carefully. Sputum is thinned by drinking decoctions of plantain, licorice and marshmallow.

Modern mucolytics and rules for their use

There is a long list of different mucolytic cough suppressants. Some are intended for adults. For colds after 6 years of age, cough expectorants are prescribed to the child. For older children, all sorts of syrups are used to relieve cough.

The composition of the tablets of various mucolytics differs from each other. The information below will help the reader find the right mucolytic agent for him. The products are selected by popularity.

ACC or Acetylcysteine

The mucolytic was developed in the last century. The action consists in the destruction of mucopolysaccharide molecules, which are part of the consistency secreted by the bronchi during colds. The first remedy based on these data was called Fluimucil.

Forms of release of the medicine:

• Pills.
• Solutions for intramuscular and intravenous injections.
• Powders.
• Granules.

Description of each release form:

• Acc tablets. Each tablet is white, shaped like a circle, sometimes with a berry-fruit aroma. There are 10-20 tablets in one package. Acetylcysteine ​​content - 100, 200, sometimes 600 mg. The composition includes lactose, ascorbic and citric acid, sodium bicarbonate and aromatic substances. Price category - 150-190 rubles.
• Granules. The content of the main component is the same as in tablet form. In addition to ascorbic acid and aromatic substances, the composition includes sucrose and saccharin. Small granules smell like berries or fruits. Sold in bags. One pack of 100 mg costs about 150 rubles.
• Solutions. The content of acetylcysteine ​​does not exceed 300 mg. The composition also includes sodium hydroxide, ascorbic acid, water and disodium edetate. The medicine looks like a clear liquid. The price does not exceed 130 rubles.
• Syrup. This release form has a low acetylcysteine ​​content - 100-200 ml per bottle. Contains various flavors, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, sodium hydroxide, carmellose, disodium edetate, water and sodium saccharinate. In appearance, the syrup resembles a transparent viscous liquid. The price is the highest - from 200 rubles.

Amtersol

• The medicine is available in one form - syrup.
• One bottle with a capacity of 100 g contains 1 gram of potassium bromide, 200 mg of thermopsis herb extract in liquid form (½), sodium benzoate, 200 grams of ammonium chloride and 600 grams of licorice root extract.
• The mucolytic drug causes increased bronchial secretion, causing the patient to expectorate.

Carbocisteine

The product is sold on pharmacies in the form of 2% or 5% syrup. The bottle contains up to 300 mg of liquid mucolytic drug.

The mucolytic is excreted after 2 hours.

You might be interested in the article - When is Fluifort cough syrup prescribed?

Ambroxol

The main effect of this mucolytic agent is to transform viscous sputum into a thinner one. Available in tablet form. Doctors also note the fact that taking Ambroxol to patients increases the protective response of the immune system and reduces the intensity of inflammatory processes.

Bromhexine

The main component of the mucolytic agent is bromhexine hydrochloride. Release form: solution. Used internally.

In pharmacies, a dark-colored bottle packed in a box is sold in 60 or 100 ml. A popular type of this medicine is bromhexine 4. Apricot flavoring is added to this mucolytic agent.

overslept

A fairly expensive mucolytic agent costs 300 rubles or more. Available in the form of drops and syrup. The product is considered completely natural, as it consists of the main plant component - ivy leaf extract.

The product acts on bronchial tissue, destroying inflammation.

We advise you to read the article - Prospan instructions for use and cheaper analogues.

Drops are not taken orally. Therapy, consisting of instillation and consumption of syrup, lasts 1 week.

Carefully! For small children, drops are used with the addition of water.

Breast training

Mucolytic agents, which are made from medicinal plants, are useful for colds. But not every sick person has the desire to choose a range of herbal medicines and decoctions for themselves.

1. To make a chest collection, you need to collect a mixture of herbs or fruits that provide expectoration for inflammation in the bronchi and lungs.
2. Such a remedy will be cheaper than pharmaceutical drugs aimed at eliminating phlegm.
3. The main components for breast collection are:

• Oregano.
• Coltsfoot.
• Marshmallow root.
• Liquorice root.

The collected mucolytic agent is easily used: a tablespoon of breast solution is placed in a glass of cold water, then the liquid is kept in a water bath for 15 minutes, after which the prepared mixture is left to infuse for 45 minutes. The resulting infusion is filtered and 200 ml of boiled cold water is added to it.

Contraindications

When using a mucolytic agent, you need to study the instructions for existing contraindications, which may be the following:

• Bronchial asthma.
• Diseases of the trachea and bronchi of various forms.
• If the patient has undergone or is awaiting surgery.
• Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, if the patient wants to use nasal sprays.

Tips for choosing a drug

When choosing a remedy for colds and their complications, you should be careful: it is necessary to take into account existing diseases. At the first manifestations of an allergy, treatment with this drug should be discontinued.

If a child has a cold, the mother should carefully study the composition of the purchased mucolytic anti-cold remedies, and also take into account the norms and number of doses of a particular remedy.

(3

Source: https://nasmork.net/mukoliticheskoe-sredstvo-ot-kashlya/

Expectorant and mucolytic drugs: review of drugs

Increased formation (hypersecretion) of mucus in the respiratory tract accompanies many acute infections, as well as bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive disease and other pulmonary pathologies. In this case, it is necessary to take expectorant and mucolytic drugs. Their main purpose is to improve expectoration of mucus and/or reduce its formation.

Mucoactive drugs are divided according to their mode of action into expectorants, mucoregulators, mucolytics and mucokinetics. You can classify them into other groups, but this approach makes it possible to more accurately select the drug needed for coughing.

A little about sputum formation

Accumulation of mucus due to inflammation of the airway wall

In healthy people, mucus is secreted in normal quantities and is continuously removed by ciliated epithelial cells towards the larynx, and then enters the nasopharynx and is swallowed. Increased mucus secretion in the respiratory system can become a problem, especially if the rate of secretion exceeds the speed of movement of mucus particles by ciliated epithelial cells.

Hypersecretion of mucus is a characteristic sign of acute respiratory infections, as well as bronchial asthma, COPD and chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis. During inflammation caused by infection, there is an increase in the number and size of so-called goblet cells located in the submucosal glands. Secretory hyperactivity occurs.

Inflammation causes loss of function and destruction of epithelial cilia, changes in the physicochemical properties of the mucous membrane and disruption of the normal composition of sputum. During this process, dead bacteria and immune cells and desquamated epithelium accumulate, forming pus.

Mucus, which forms the basis of sputum, is an oligomer that consists of water and high molecular weight proteins that form a gel. Medicines that change the physical or chemical characteristics of sputum are called mucoactive and, depending on the main effect, are divided into groups.

Expectorants and mucolytics are prescribed:

• with bronchitis;
• with tracheitis;
• for influenza and acute respiratory infections;
• with smoker's bronchitis;
• for asthma.

Expectorants

These medications make it easier to cough up mucus and are better for dry coughs.

Thermopsis

Thermopsis cough tablets are a popular expectorant.

The herb of this plant has a reflex effect when coughing. It moderately irritates the inner wall of the stomach, as a result of which not only gastric, but also bronchial secretion increases reflexively. The amount of sputum increases, it becomes more liquid and is easier to cough up. Thermopsis alkaloids stimulate the respiratory center, activating cough. When consumed in high doses, the vomiting center may also be stimulated.

Thermopsis grass is often used in combination with soda (sodium bicarbonate). This substance additionally stimulates mucus production, thinning phlegm.

Other medicinal plants act in the same way, reflexively enhancing bronchial secretion (licorice, marshmallow). They are used for coughs with difficult to clear sputum due to tracheitis and bronchitis. Their side effect is nausea; these drugs should not be used for gastric ulcers and individual intolerance.

Thermopsis herb is included in the following inexpensive but effective expectorant medications:

• Amtersol (syrup);
• Codelac and Codelac Broncho;
• Codelac Phyto (elixir);
• dry cough syrup;
• cough tablets;
• Thermopsol.

Guaifenesin

This substance reduces the surface tension of sputum and makes it more fluid. In addition, it reduces its adhesive (“sticky”) properties. The viscosity of sputum decreases and it is easier to expectorate.

Medicines containing guaifenesin are prescribed for diseases with a moderate wet cough, late stage tracheitis and mild bronchitis. Side effects include nausea, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Guaifenesin has a mild anxiolytic effect, so it can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Allergic symptoms are also possible.

Medicines with guaifenesin should not be taken if you have a cough with a large amount of sputum, with stomach ulcers, previous gastric bleeding, in children under 2 years of age, or with intolerance.

Guaifenesin should not be taken simultaneously with psychotropic drugs and alcohol.

Coldrex Broncho and Tussin syrups contain only guaifenesin. It is also part of multi-component products:

• Ascoril Expectorant;
• Vicks Active Symptomax Plus;
• Joset;
• Cashnol;
• Coldact Broncho;
• Cophasma;
• Novo-passit;
• Stoptussin;
• Tussin Plus.

Mucoregulators

Drugs in this group change the amount of sputum produced. These include carbocisteine, anticholinergics, glucocorticoids and macrolide antibiotics. They are best used for wet (wet) coughs with sputum.

Carbocisteine

Libexin Muco syrup contains carbocisteine.

This substance has a variety of pharmacological effects:

• destroys chemical bonds between molecules that form mucus;
• changes the electrical charge of sputum mucopolysaccharides, activates the production of sialomucins;
• activates the movement of epithelial cilia;
• reduces the viscous properties of sputum;
• improves the release of mucus from the paranasal sinuses;
• has anti-inflammatory properties.

Carbocisteine ​​is indicated for the production of copious viscous sputum. These are bronchitis, broncho-obstructive syndrome, asthma, bronchiectasis, whooping cough. In addition, it is used in the treatment of sinusitis and inflammation of the middle ear, as well as before bronchoscopy or bronchography.

This substance is well tolerated. Only sometimes, after its administration, there may be disturbances in the functioning of the stomach, loose stools or signs of bleeding. Skin rash or itching is possible.

Contraindications:

• exacerbation of gastric and duodenal ulcers;
• chronic glomerulonephritis of any etiology in the acute stage;
• 1st trimester of pregnancy;
• individual intolerance.

Carbocisteine ​​can be prescribed to children starting from 1 month in the appropriate dosage.

Medicines containing this substance:

• Bronchobos (syrup and capsules);
• Libexin Muco (syrup);
• Fluifort (syrup and soluble granules);
• Fluditec (syrup).

Anticholinergic drugs (ipratropium bromide), glucocorticoids, and macrolides also have moderate mucoregulatory properties. However, the main effects of these drugs are different, so they are not used for the direct purpose of changing the characteristics of sputum.

Mucolytics

These agents reduce the viscosity of sputum, giving it “fluidity.” They are used if the sputum is too thick.

Acetylcysteine

Acetylcysteine ​​thins mucus

The substance directly affects long molecules and breaks the chemical bonds between them. As a result, the polymer properties of mucus weaken and its viscosity decreases. Acetylcysteine ​​is also active against purulent sputum, which distinguishes it from many other drugs.

The substance has an antioxidant effect, that is, it protects cell membranes from the harmful effects of toxins and metabolic products. It enhances the body's production of glutathione, a substance that actively removes toxins and free radicals.

Acetylcysteine ​​is prescribed for viscous and/or mucopurulent sputum in the following cases:

• inflammation of the trachea, bronchi, lungs;
• bronchiectasis;
• pulmonary atelectasis;
• cystic fibrosis;
• asthma;
• sinusitis.

It can also be prescribed to children starting from 2 years old. Possible side effects:

• rarely – stomach pathology, diarrhea;
• rash and itching of the skin, bronchospasm;
• when used in a nebulizer - severe cough, stomatitis;
• nose bleed;
• noise in ears.

Acetylcysteine ​​is contraindicated in cases of exacerbation of gastric and duodenal ulcers, hemoptysis, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and in case of drug intolerance. It is necessary to take a 2 hour break between taking this substance and antibiotics.

List of products with acetylcysteine:

• Acestin (regular and soluble tablets);
• Acetylcysteine ​​(powder and soluble tablets);
• ACC (soluble granules, syrup);
• ACC 100 (soluble tablets);
• ACC Inject (solution for deep intramuscular or intravenous administration);
• ACC Long (soluble tablets);
• Vicks Active Expectomed (soluble tablets);
• N-Ac-Ratiopharm (powder and soluble tablets);
• Fluimucil (solutions for oral administration, for inhalation and injection, soluble granules and tablets).

Dornase alpha

The modern drug Pulmozyme is used as a mucolytic for cystic fibrosis. It is based on a genetically engineered enzyme that cleaves extracellular DNA.

When such an aerosol enters the bronchi and lungs, the viscous, purulent, with altered properties of sputum in cystic fibrosis is broken down and liquefied, which significantly enhances its excretion.

In addition to cystic fibrosis, dornase alfa can be used for bronchiectasis, severe COPD, congenital lung malformations, and pneumonia due to immunodeficiencies.

Side effects of this drug are extremely rare and the frequency is the same as with placebo (a neutral, non-drug).

Most patients who experience any adverse effects associated with the use of Pulmozyme can continue to use it.

This aerosol is administered using a special device - a jet nebulizer. It is contraindicated only in case of individual intolerance.

Erdostein

Erdomed - a modern cough medicine

This substance is the basis of the drug Erdomed, produced in capsules and soluble granules. Such a mucolytic was synthesized quite recently. In addition to mucolytic and antioxidant properties, it reduces the ability of bacteria to “stick” to the wall of the respiratory organs. The drug is used in the treatment of bronchitis, COPD, bronchiectasis, sinusitis and other conditions with thick sputum. It is especially indicated for use in smokers.

Contraindications include:

• age up to 2 years;
• 1st trimester of pregnancy;
• for granules – phenylketonuria;
• homocystinuria;
• liver or kidney failure;
• individual intolerance.

Side effects are rare. This is an allergic reaction, nausea, vomiting and loose stools.

Mucokinetics

These drugs are used for obsessive, unproductive coughs to enhance mucus removal and cleanse the bronchi. They act primarily on the cilia of the epithelium, and also reduce the “adhesion” between the mucous membrane and sputum particles. These drugs are ambroxol and bromhexine.

Ambroxol

This remedy makes phlegm liquid and clears the bronchi from it. By acting on glandular cells, ambroxol enhances the production of the liquid part of mucus. Under its influence, the amount of surfactant in the lungs increases, ensuring the expansion of the alveoli. The drug activates the work of epithelial cilia. Cough under its influence decreases slightly.

Indications:

• bronchitis;
• asthma;
• bronchiectasis;
• respiratory distress syndrome.

You can use the medicine from birth. It is well tolerated, only occasionally causing stomach upset or allergies.

Ambroxol is contraindicated in the following cases:

• peptic ulcer;
• 1st trimester of pregnancy;
• convulsions;
• lactation.

List of ambroxol drugs:

• Ambrobene (capsules, solution for oral administration and nebulizer, tablets, syrup, solution for intravenous administration);

• Ambrohexal;
• Ambroxol;
• Ambrolor;
• Ambrosan;
• Bronchoxol;
• Bronchorus;
• Lazolvan;
• Lazongin;
• Medox;
• Neo-bronchol;
• Remebrox;
• Suprima-Kof;
• Thoraxol Solution Tablets;
• Flavamed;
• Halixol.

Bromhexine

Bromhexine is a safe cough medicine

Its chemical structure is very similar to ambroxol. It is used to combat viscous sputum in tracheitis, bronchitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis and COPD.

The drug is used for oral administration and nebulizer inhalation. Its effect develops gradually, often only after a few days of use. However, low toxicity and the possibility of use in children of any age make bromhexine a popular mucokinetic drug.

• Possible side effects: nausea, stomach discomfort, headache, dizziness, skin rash, sweating, bronchospasm.
• The only contraindication is individual intolerance to the drug, which distinguishes it favorably from ambroxol.
• List of drugs based on bromhexine:

• Bromhexine;
• Bronchostop;
• Solvin.

Multicomponent expectorants and mucolytics

For persistent coughs, medications containing several ingredients that mutually enhance the effect are often used.

Drug name	Components
Bronchosan drops	Bromhexine Menthol Essential oils of fennel, anise, oregano, mint, eucalyptus
Joset syrup	Salbutamol Bromhexine Guaifenesin Menthol
Cashnol syrup	Same
Cofasma syrup	Salbutamol Guaifenesin Bromhexine
Rinofluimucil nasal spray	Acetylcysteine ​​Tuaminoheptane
Codelac Broncho tablets	Ambroxol Sodium glycyrrhizinate Dry thermopsis extract Sodium bicarbonate
Elixir Codelac Broncho with thyme	Ambroxol Glycyrrhizic acid Thyme herb
Coldact Broncho syrup	Ambroxol Chlorphenamine (antiallergic component) Guaifenesin Phenylephrine hydrochloride (vasoconstrictor)
Syrup and tablets Ascoril Ekspectorant	Bromhexine Guaifenesin Salbutamol

Many of these medications are available without a doctor's prescription. Therefore, it is worth studying the specifics of their purpose before purchasing at a pharmacy and choosing the most suitable medicine for yourself. Here we do not dwell on herbal medicine and non-drug methods for treating cough.

Source: https://ask-doctors.ru/otxarkivayushhie-i-mukoliticheskie-preparaty-obzor-sredstv/

The use of mucolytic agents in the treatment of cough

Mucolytic agents thin the sputum and can be used if the patient has a cough accompanied by difficult, viscous and thick sputum. These are one of the basic groups of medications that doctors prescribe during the treatment of productive, (“wet”) cough.  

There are certain features of the use and activity of drugs from the group of mucolytics:

• Clinical effectiveness when using expectorant and mucolytic drugs is observed 5-7 days after starting to use the medications.
• At the beginning of therapy, patients may notice the effect of “imaginary worsening”.
• The use of mucolytics is not recommended during the treatment of bedridden patients due to the “flooding effect”.

Mucolytic drugs can be thiol-containing, visicinoids, or proteolytic enzymes. 

Patients often wonder: what is mucolytic action? After entering the bronchial mucus, the action of the active components of the drugs is aimed at the destruction of protein molecules that ensure its viscosity and thickness. There is a decrease in the viscosity of mucus and easier removal from the bronchi area - this is a mucolytic effect.

The use of this group of drugs contributes to:

1. Inhibition of the formation of bronchial secretions.
2. Restoration of damaged bronchial mucous membranes.
3. Rehydration of sputum.
4. Normalization of the elasticity of lung tissue. 
5. Stimulation of the removal of sputum from the lumens of the bronchial tree. 

Mucolytics are included in the group of expectorants and can be used to detect viscous, mucous or mucopurulent sputum that is difficult to separate.

Such medications are used in the complex treatment of diseases affecting the lower respiratory tract:

• Bronchiectasis.
• Acute and chronic obstructive bronchitis.
• Tracheitis.
• Pneumonia. 
• Bronchial asthma.
• Bronchiolitis.
• Cystic fibrosis. 

The main feature of drugs in this group is that while the sputum is diluted, the active substances do not contribute to an increase in its volume. 

In case of a productive, wet, profuse cough, the prescription of medications whose action is aimed at thinning the sputum is not required. It is also not recommended to combine this group of mucolytics with antitussive drugs.

Classification by active substance 

Mucolytics are drugs that help thin sputum.

Modern pharmacology provides the following list of mucolytic drugs:

• Medicines that help accelerate the removal of sputum based on bromhexidine and ambroxol. 
• Medicines that help reduce mucus formation.
• Medicines based on acetylcysteine ​​help to influence the quality of viscosity and elasticity of bronchial mucus. 

 

Mucolytic cough suppressants may also contribute to direct and indirect effects. With direct exposure, rapid destruction of the polymer bonds of mucus, which is located in the bronchi, is observed.

Your doctor may recommend using:

• Acetylcysteine ​​(ACC), Mucaltin, Mucomista, Mukobene, Fluimucil, infusion of marshmallow root, plantain leaves, coltsfoot, marshmallow. 
• Enzyme preparations that reduce the viscosity of sputum: Trypsin, Chymotrypsin, Ribonuclease, Streptokinase. 
• Carbocysteines: Mucopronta, Mucosola, Broncatara. 

• Bromhexine: Broxin, Fulpen, Bisolvon, Phlegamine. 
• Ambroxol: Amrosana, Ambrobene, Lasolvana, Medoventa. 
• Antihistamines and anticholinergic drugs that help change the productivity of the bronchial glands. 

Patients are advised to refrain from self-medication. If a cough occurs, you should consult a doctor and find out the exact cause of the symptom. A suitable treatment regimen will be prescribed after an in-person examination and a comprehensive examination.  

Mucolytics with acetylcysteine

Mucolytic drugs based on acetylcysteine ​​are among the most active. Available in the form of tablets or powders for internal use.

When dissolving the medicine, the manufacturer recommends using glass containers. The drug is taken immediately after the main meal.

The active component is included in the following products:

• ACC.
• Fluimucil.
• Mucomista.
• Mukobene.
• Exomyuk 200.
• N-Ats-Ratiopharm.
• Espa-Nat.

It is recommended to refrain from using drugs based on acetylcysteine:

1. During the treatment of patients with bronchial asthma, since there is a risk of bronchospasm. 
2. With exacerbation of stomach and duodenal ulcers.
3. During treatment of patients under 2 years of age.
4. When treating pregnant and lactating women. 

The combination of acetylcysteine ​​with drugs that include nitroglycerin enhances the vasodilatory effect and antiplatelet properties.

Antibiotics based on cephalosporin, tetracycline and penicillin are recommended to be used no earlier than a few hours after using acetylcysteine. 

Mucolytics with bromhexine

Bromhexine helps to liquefy sputum and has a weak antitussive effect. I use the drugs in the treatment of acute and chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheobronchitis.

• Phlegamine.
• Solvina.
• Flexoxin.
• Bronchostop.
• Bronchotila.
• Bromhexine 8 Berlin-Chemie.

It is recommended to take the tablets orally, after meals, with a sufficient amount of liquid. The duration of use of the medicine is determined by the doctor, taking into account the therapeutic effect and indications for use. There are certain features of using drugs with this active substance:

• Under the influence of Bromhexine and Ambroxol, the processes of production of substances that cover the mucous membranes of the bronchi (surfactant) are activated, which prevent small villi that promote mucous formations from the bronchi from sticking together. 
• Bromhexine enhances the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy. 
• If you use a combination of mucolytics with herbal expectorants, an increase in the positive therapeutic effect is observed. 

In order to enhance the mucolytic effect, preparations based on bromhexidine and ambroxol are recommended to be taken with fruit juice. 

Mucolytics with carbocisteine

• Bronchobos.
• Libexina Muco.
• Fluditeca.

The use of Carbocisteine ​​is permissible in the treatment of patients with a history of bronchial asthma. Unlike drugs that contain acetylcysteine, carbocysteine ​​does not contribute to the development of bronchospasms.  

Mucolytics with ambroxol

• Bromhexine is a prodrug, and Ambroxol is an active metabolite of Bromhexine. 
• Ambroxol, like Bromhexine, is a synthetic analogue of the alkaloid vizicine, obtained from the plant Justitia vascularis.
• This substance is included in drugs with the following trade names: 

• Lazolvan in the form of tablets and capsules for internal use, solution for inhalation, syrup for adults and children, lozenges for resorption.
• Neo-Bronchol in the form of lozenges. 
• Flavamed in the form of tablets and solution for internal use. 
• Flavamed Max in the form of effervescent tablets. 
• Ambrosan - tablets for internal use.
• Ambroxol in the form of tablets and syrup for internal use.
• Halixol in the form of tablets and syrup for oral administration.
• Vicks active abromed is a syrup for oral administration.
• Ambrohexal – syrup, solution, tablets. 

It is recommended to refrain from using drugs based on ambroxol when treating patients with gastric ulcers, convulsive syndrome, bronchial motility disorders, large volumes of secretions (due to the risk of developing mucus stagnation in the bronchi), during the 1st trimester of pregnancy and breastfeeding. 

Mucolytics with a combined composition

• Codelac Broncho with thyme is a combined mucolytic with ambroxol, sodium glycyrrhizinate, and liquid thyme extract. Can be used in the treatment of children from 2 years of age. It has an expectorant, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect. Not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.  
• Ascoril expectorant is a drug based on bromhexine, salbutamol, guaifenesin, and racementol. Available in syrup form for internal use. The combination of active ingredients with salbutamol prevents and eliminates the development of bronchospasms. This drug is used in the treatment of obstructive bronchitis and bronchial asthma. Among the contraindications are the period of pregnancy and breastfeeding, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, the development of decompensated diabetes mellitus, thyrotoxicosis, exacerbation of gastric and duodenal ulcers.  

The doctor may also recommend the use of Joset (syrup), cough tablets, Codelac Broncho.

Ribonuclease 

One of the expectorants that help thin sputum and have an anti-inflammatory effect are enzyme preparations, for example, Ribonuclease. The active substance is obtained from the pancreas of cattle.

• Act only in the area of ​​necrotic tissue and viscous secretions. Such drugs do not demonstrate effectiveness in healthy tissue.  
• Break down peptide bonds in protein molecules. 
• Reduce the viscoelastic properties of sputum.

The use of the drug may cause the development of allergic reactions and irritation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. Due to the high risk of developing bronchospasms, this type of mucolytics is prescribed in rare cases.  

Mucolytic drugs are often used in complex treatment of the respiratory system. The selection of medications is carried out strictly individually, taking into account the patient’s age, the nature of the pathological process and the mechanism of pharmacological action of the drug.

Mucolytic drugs in pediatrics

Source: https://pneumoniae.net/mukoliticheskie-sredstva/

Treatment of cough with mucolytic agents

Mucolytics are drugs to relieve a wet cough with hard-to-clear sputum. They thin bronchial mucus, reduce inflammation, and improve the bioavailability of antibiotics. The medicine is sold in pharmacies and comes in different shapes, weights and prices.

Operating principle

Once in the body, the components of mucolytic agents are absorbed into the blood and enter the bronchi. There they interact with mucus, destroying the structure of protein compounds. As a result, the viscosity and thickness of sputum decreases.

In addition to thinning mucus, mucolytic agents have a healing effect. They improve the condition of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, as well as the alveoli of the bronchi and lungs. As a result, gas exchange improves and the risk of tissue swelling decreases.

Doctors warn that in the first days of treatment the patient feels an “imaginary deterioration”, and the maximum positive effect occurs 4-5 days after the start of the course of taking mucolytic drugs.

Indications for use

The medicine is prescribed as an auxiliary treatment for diseases of the respiratory system:

• acute and chronic bronchitis;
• bronchial asthma;
• pneumonia;
• tracheitis, cystic fibrosis.

In addition to mucolytic agents, the treatment regimen includes drugs to destroy the pathogen, drugs for coughing up sputum, and vitamin and mineral complexes.

Contraindications and side effects

Each mucolytic agent has instructions for use, which indicate contraindications for its use. General prohibitions include:

• pregnancy (first trimester);
• intolerance to the components of the drug;
• ulcers and bleeding in the digestive tract.

Mucolytics should not be taken simultaneously with cough suppressants. Otherwise, a significant part of the sputum will remain in the tissues of the bronchi and lungs. Stagnant mucus is a favorable environment for the development of secondary infections.

Mucolytics in the form of syrup are prohibited for people with diabetes.

When treating cough in bedridden patients, the doctor reduces the dosage of the mucolytic agent. Such patients find it difficult to cough, so a “flooding effect” of the lungs may occur. In this case, special suction is used to remove mucus.

Mucolytic agents for children

Gentle plant-based mucolytics are used to treat children.

"Doctor Mom" The main substances of the drug are extracts of medicinal plants. Kids enjoy taking sweet syrup 3 times a day after meals. Older children can suck on hard cough drops.

"Mukaltin." The drug contains tartaric acid to thin sputum, marshmallow extract for anti-inflammatory effects, and potassium bicarbonate to stimulate secretory function. The medicine can be given to children over three years of age.

Medicines for adults

For the treatment of adults, mucolytics with a stronger effect on the body are prescribed.

"Ambroxol". The main substance of the drug, ambroxol hydrochloride, has secretolytic and secretomotor properties. The effect of the medicine is enhanced by taking the tablets with plenty of clean water.

"Fluimucil." The drug destroys the protein compounds of sputum and stimulates the production of bronchial secretions. The medicine is produced in the form of granules, effervescent tablets, solution for injection and inhalation.

Mucolytic agents for inhalation

Inhalations with saline solution and mineral water can be done independently when the first symptoms of a cold appear. Mucolytic solutions are used only after prescription by a specialist.

"Trypsin." Dilute one ampoule of the drug with 3-5 ml of saline and pour it into the nebulizer tank. To prevent hoarseness, do not increase the dosage of the product, but after the session, gargle with warm boiled water.

"ACC." Before filling the nebulizer reservoir, dilute the drug with saline in a 1:1 ratio. Do inhalations 2-3 times a day between meals. The duration of the procedure is 10-15 minutes, the maximum course of treatment is 10 days.

Source: https://stop-kashel.ru/lechenie-kashlya-mukoliticheskimi-sredstvami/

Mucolytic cough suppressants

Classification of mucolytic agents

Mucolytic drugs are divided into three main groups:

• affecting the viscosity of mucus;
• activating the release of sputum;
• reducing the amount of mucus.

Medicines that affect bronchial secretion can be of direct or indirect action. Drugs that destroy polymer mucous bonds act directly.

Indirect acting drugs include:

• changing the biochemical composition of mucus;
• changing the adhesion of the gel layer;
• affecting hydration;
• balms and volatile substances;
• drugs that stimulate the gag reflex;
• changing activity in the bronchial glands.

Mechanism of action of mucolytic agents

The effects of mucolytic drugs are aimed at facilitating the removal of mucus from the respiratory tract.

  In the process, the serous mucosal cells on the lining of the bronchi are stimulated, during which the disturbed ratio of the mucous and serous components is restored and hydrolase is activated.

The action of the drugs is also aimed at breaking the disulfide bonds of sputum and inhibiting the formation of mucus.

Mucolytic drugs

Mucolytic drugs are used to treat a dry cough to turn it into a wet one. They are also used to treat nasal inflammation. For sinusitis, Fludex, Fluimucil and Mucodin are mainly used. They contain carbocysteine, which helps remove mucus and restore breathing. At the same time, it helps fight sinusitis and rhinitis.

Mucolytic agents of plant origin

The use of plants as medicine comes to us from ancient times. This is due to the fact that they have noticeable advantages over synthetic drugs. First of all, these are minimal side effects. Traditionally, plant extracts, dry mixtures, oils, and herbal mixtures are used.

They have anti-inflammatory properties, reduce swelling of the mucous membrane and significantly facilitate the discharge of sputum. Phytoncytes, found in many herbs, help fight bacteria and viruses. They have a pleasant taste that children and adults enjoy. In some cases, allergic reactions may occur.

It is important to closely monitor the body's reaction.

Preparations based on thyme, in addition to their main effect, reduce soreness and hoarseness. Such a drug is Bronchicum. It is sold in the form of syrup, lozenges and elixir.

Marshmallow root thins mucus and creates conditions for its easy removal. Medicines based on a combination of thyme and plantain extracts are used to treat tracheitis and bronchitis, when it is difficult to cough.

Such medicines include Mukaltin and Linkas, which also contain violet and hyssop.

Expectorants and mucolytics

Expectorants have reflex and resorptive action. The former contain saponin and alkaloids (infusions of thermopsis, marshmallow root and istod). When taken, they irritate the stomach receptors, and this leads to stimulation of the vagus nerve in the brain. Further, the secretion of mucus in the bronchi increases and the bronchial muscles contract.

Resorptive drugs (eucalyptus oil, thyme, anise fruits) are absorbed into the gastrointestinal tract, released in the form of mucus and dilute sputum. Preparations containing iodine help break down sputum proteins. The mucolytic effect causes the sputum to become viscous and drain well. At the same time, the secretory function of the bronchial glands is normalized.

The effect occurs within thirty minutes and lasts up to ten hours.

List of mucolytics

Mucolytics have several dosage forms and provide different modes of delivery. This can be oral, endobronchial or inhalation.

This allows the use of mucolytic agents as a means of complex therapy in the treatment of acute and chronic stages of respiratory disease.

This is also indicated for the treatment of ENT organs with the release of purulent secretion. These drugs are suitable even for treating infants.

Mucolytic agents for children

Preparations based on marshmallow are used to treat diseases in children. They are used for pneumonia, obstructive bronchitis, and pulmonary enphysema. Such medicines include: Mukaltin, Alteika syrup, marshmallow roots in the form of herbs.

Thermopsis preparations have a pronounced expectorant property. They reduce the viscosity of sputum and stimulate the secretory function of the bronchi. These include: Codelac Broncho, Codelac Broncho with thyme, Stoptussin phyto syrup, Coldrex broncho, Bronchicum, Pertussin.

Breast mixtures No. 1, 2, 3, 4 are also used in treatment, which include oregano, coltsfoot, sage, almost pine anise, licorice, wild rosemary.

Acetylcysteine ​​is one of the most active drugs. The medicine has antitoxic and antioxidant properties and has a thinning effect on sputum. Analogs of the drug are Airbron, Mucomist, Fluimucil, ACC, Mukobene, Inspiron. The drugs are produced in the form of a solution for inhalation, as well as in ampoules.

In addition to its mucolytic effect, carbocisteine ​​also restores the activity of secretory cells. Analogues are Mukodin, Fluvik, Drill, Bronkatar. These syrup forms can be used by patients with diabetes. Also available in capsule form.

Bromhexine has an expectorant effect and is used for acute bronchitis. Its analogues are Bisolvon, Mukovin, Fulpen, Brodisol, Bromobenzonium. Tablets, syrups, oral solutions, elixirs, and also as inhalations are used in treatment.

Ambroxol affects the synthesis of bronchial secretions. It is used for acute chronic diseases.

Gelomirtol Forte or Myrtol standardized is used to eliminate the viscosity of sputum and make it easier to pass. It helps with chronic bronchitis and inflammation of the sinuses. The drug is available in the form of capsules of different dosages.

Mesna, Mucolen, Mistabron or Mycoflud resemble Acetylcysteine ​​in their action. These medications are used to treat chronic bronchitis in the form of inhalations and injections.

kashelb.com

Cough medicine for children: list of effective ones. What to give children for dry cough

The most common symptom of respiratory diseases is a cough. It is especially alarming when it occurs in young children. Its causes are varied, and, based on this, the methods of dealing with it are different. How to choose a cough medicine for children? To answer this question, you need to understand the mechanism of occurrence of such a symptom.

The main reasons leading to cough in children

The cough reflex is a natural process in the body. It may indicate the presence of a disease, or it may only serve to clear the respiratory tract of accumulated secretions.

A single unobtrusive cough, not accompanied by an increase in body temperature or any changes in the child’s behavior, should not cause much concern to parents.

If a cough brings anxiety to the baby, then it is necessary to find out its cause in order to choose the most effective cough medicine for children.

There are two leading factors that cause a cough: the penetration of an infectious agent into the child’s body (and the development of a corresponding cold) or the presence of an allergic reaction. A child's body, especially a newborn, is imperfect and very sensitive to various viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory diseases.

These harmful agents, entering the respiratory system with the flow of inhaled air, enter the mucous membrane, penetrate into its cells and begin to actively multiply, while irritation and increased mucus formation appear at the site of their introduction, to which the body reacts by coughing.

In a similar way, a reaction is formed when allergens enter the respiratory tract, be it particles of dust, animal hair or plant pollen.

A cough is a protective reaction of the body to irritation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory organs or an inflammatory process in them and frees them from various mechanical particles, microorganisms and accumulated mucus. Based on their character, productivity and sound, the following types of cough are distinguished.

Types of cough

A distinction is made between a dry cough (in other words, unproductive), which occurs at the initial stage of the disease and is not accompanied by the discharge of sputum, and a wet (or productive) cough, which occurs as sputum accumulates and promotes its discharge.

Source: https://0p3.ru/kasel/mukoliticheskie-sredstva-ot-kashlja.html