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RESPIRATORY SYSTEM › COUGH AND COLD PREPARATIONS › EXPECTORANTS, EXCL. COMBINATIONS WITH COUGH SUPPRESSANTS › Mucolytics
bromhexine
R05CB02
Forms & Strengths
- Tablet: 8 mg
- Syrup: 4 mg/5 mL
- Solution for inhalation/drops: 2 mg/mL
Adult Dosing
- Oral: 8 to 16 mg three times daily
- Inhalation: 4 to 8 mg twice to three times daily
Pediatric Dosing
- Children 6-12 years: 4 mg three times daily
- Children 2-6 years: 2 mg three times daily
- Children under 2 years: 1 to 2 mg three times daily
Indications
- Secretolytic therapy in acute and chronic bronchopulmonary diseases associated with abnormal mucus secretion and impaired mucus transport
Mechanism of Action
- Mucolytic agent that depolymerizes acid mucopolysaccharide fibers in sputum, decreasing sputum viscosity and facilitating expectoration
- Stimulates sialic acid production, altering the mucous composition
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to bromhexine or any excipients
- History of severe cutaneous adverse reactions
- Patients with rare hereditary conditions of galactose intolerance
Adverse Reactions
- Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upper abdominal pain
- Immune system: hypersensitivity reactions, anaphylactic shock, angioedema, rash, urticaria
- Respiratory: bronchospasm
- Skin: severe cutaneous adverse reactions including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (very rare)
Drug Interactions
- Antibiotics: concurrent administration with amoxicillin, erythromycin, or oxytetracycline increases antibiotic concentration in lung tissue
- Antitussives: concurrent use with cough suppressants (e.g., codeine) may cause dangerous mucus accumulation due to inhibited cough reflex
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use