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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES › OTHER SYSTEMIC DRUGS FOR OBSTRUCTIVE AIRWAY DISEASES › Other systemic drugs for obstructive airway diseases
amlexanox
R03DX01
Forms & Strengths
- 5% oral paste (0.5 g per dose)
- 1% oral rinse solution
- 10 mg oral tablets
Adult Dosing
- Aphthous ulcer: apply 0.5 g (≈5 mg) of 5% paste to each ulcer 4 times daily after meals for 5 days
- Allergic rhinitis: 10 mg tablet orally twice daily for 2 weeks; may repeat if needed
Pediatric Dosing
- Aphthous ulcer (≥10 yr): same as adult – 0.5 g 5% paste 4 times daily; for 6‑9 yr use 0.25 g 5% paste 4 times daily
- Allergic rhinitis (≥12 yr): 10 mg tablet once daily; consider 5 mg if weight <30 kg
Indications
- Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (minor ulcers)
- Mild‑to‑moderate allergic rhinitis (seasonal or perennial)
Mechanism of Action
- Stabilizes mast cell membranes and prevents degranulation
- Inhibits release of histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins
- Suppresses NF‑κB activation, reducing cytokine production
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to amlexanox or any excipient
- Active oral infection requiring systemic therapy
Adverse Reactions
- Transient oral burning or tingling at application site
- Mild nausea or dyspepsia
- Headache
- Rare local irritation or ulceration
Drug Interactions
- No clinically significant systemic interactions reported (poor systemic absorption)
- Caution with concomitant antihistamines – additive effect on nasal symptoms possible
- Avoid use with other topical oral agents that may cause mucosal irritation
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use