Popular mucolytic agents: a brief description

In inflammatory pathologies of the respiratory system, a change in the rheological characteristics of sputum (increase in viscosity) and an increase in its production are noted. To cure respiratory diseases, expectorants and mucolytic agents are prescribed. These drugs dilute sputum, reduce its adhesive properties and accelerate excretion. All medicines used for therapy are divided into several groups.

Medications that stimulate expectoration

In this category there are preparations based on herbal components (licorice, althea and others) and possessing resorptive activity (iodides, for example). These agents increase the amount of sputum. It should be noted that the effect of these drugs is quite short. In connection with this, the medication is taken every 2-3 hours. Increased dosages provoke side effects in the form of nausea before vomiting. The disadvantages of using these medicines include, in some cases, the formation of too much mucus. Little children are sometimes unable to cough up so much. As a result, the drainage functions of the lungs are significantly impaired , and reinfection occurs.

Mucolytic agents

These drugs are in most cases optimal for the treatment of respiratory diseases. Among the most popular medicines experts call such drugs as "Acetylcysteine", "Ambroxol", "Bromgexin". Their advantages include the ability to dilute sputum without significantly increasing its volume. Many of these drugs are issued in different forms. This makes it possible to prescribe mucolytics for children of the youngest age. Especially effective are sprays, inhalations and suspensions, providing a different way of delivery and distribution of the active ingredients. This is extremely important for combined therapy of pathologies of the respiratory system of acute and chronic course. Mucolytic agents are recommended for diseases of the ENT organs, which are complicated by the release of mucous and purulent secretions. Such pathologies include, in particular, rhinitis and sinusitis. Medications are indicated for bronchitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis.

Popular mucolytic agents. The drug "Acetylcysteine"

This medication is considered one of the most active. Its action is based on reducing the viscosity of mucus, liquefaction and alleviation of its transport from the bronchi. The drug, in addition, has antitoxic and antioxidant activity. Many mucolytic agents have a similar effect. However, the drug "Acetylcysteine" is characterized by a faster and more pronounced activity. The drug is also used as an antidote for overdose with paracetamol. The spectrum of indications of the remedy, in general, is quite wide. In particular, the drug is recommended for intratracheal anesthesia to prevent complications. The effectiveness of the drug is manifested with oral, parenteral, endobronchial and combined use.