Ambroxol Hydrochloride
Indications
This is indicated in-
- Productive cough
- Acute and chronic inflammatory disorders of upper and lower respiratory tracts associated with viscid mucus including acute and chronic bronchitis
- Inflammatory disease of rhinopharyngeal tract (laryngitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis and rhinitis) associated with viscid mucus
- Asthmatic bronchitis bronchial asthma with thick expectoration
- Bronchiectasis
- Chronic pneumonia etc.
Pharmacology
Ambroxol is the active metabolite of
bromhexine and it has been proven that this metabolite possesses a
greater bronchosecretolytic effect than bromhexine. It improves sputum
rheology by hydrating mechanism leading to liquefaction of mucus in the
lumen of respiratory tract, thus facilitating expectoration of mucus and
reducing dyspnea. It stimulates production of phospholipids of
surfactant by alveolar cells, thus contributing to the lowering of
superficial tension in the alveoli. It also reduces bronchial
hyperactivity. Ambroxol has anti inflammatory properties owing to the
inhibitory effect on the production of cellular cytokines and
arachidonic acid metabolites. In patients with COPD it traditionally
improves airway patency.
Dosage & Administration
Average daily dose (preferably after meal):
Pediatric Drops:
Pediatric Drops:
- 0-6 months: 0.5 ml 2 times a day
- 6-12 months: 1 ml 2 times a day
- 1-2 years: 1.25 ml 2 times a day
- 2-5 years: 2.5 ml (1/2 teaspoonful) 2-3 times a day
- 5-10 years: 5 ml (1 teaspoonful) 2-3 times a day
- 10 years and adults: 10 ml (2 teaspoonful) 3 times a day.
Interaction
Ambroxol should not be taken simultaneously
with antitussives (e.g.Codeine) because phlegm, which has been
liquefied by Ambroxol might not be expectorated.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to Ambroxol or Bromhexine.
Side Effects
Gastrointestinal side effects like
epigastric pain, stomach overfill feeling may occur occasionally. Rarely
allergic responses such as eruption, urticaria or angioneurotic edema
have been reported.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Teratogenic and fetal toxicity studies have
shown no harmful effect of Ambroxol. However, it is advised not to use
it in pregnancy, especially during the1st trimester. Safety during
lactation has not been established yet.
Precautions & Warnings
Ambroxol should be given cautiously to
patients with gastric and duodenal ulceration or convulsive disorders.
Patients with hepatic and renal insufficiency should take it with
caution.
Therapeutic Class
Cough expectorants & mucolytics
Storage Conditions
Protect from direct light exposure, Store in a dry place at a temperature not exceeding 30°C, Keep out of the reach of children.