Bromhexine: Effective Mucus Clearance for Respiratory Relief
Bromhexine
| Product dosage: 8 mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $1.03 | $62.00 $62.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.93 | $124.00 $111.00 (10%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.78 | $279.00 $210.00 (25%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.72
Best per pill | $372.00 $259.00 (30%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Synonyms | |||
Bromhexine hydrochloride is a well-established mucolytic agent indicated for the management of productive cough and bronchial congestion associated with various respiratory conditions. As a derivative of the vasicine alkaloid, it works by depolymerizing mucopolysaccharide fibers, reducing mucus viscosity, and facilitating expectoration. This mechanism supports improved airway clearance, enhances lung function, and contributes to symptomatic relief in both acute and chronic respiratory disorders. Its efficacy and favorable safety profile have made it a staple in respiratory therapeutics for decades.
Features
- Active ingredient: Bromhexine hydrochloride
- Available in 8 mg tablets and oral solution formulations
- Mucolytic action through depolymerization of acid mucopolysaccharides
- Stimulates serous cell secretion, improving mucus hydration
- Compatible with a range of concomitant respiratory therapies
- Standardized manufacturing under pharmacopeial guidelines
Benefits
- Reduces mucus viscosity, enabling easier expectoration and less strenuous coughing
- Improves bronchial secretion transport, aiding clearance of congested airways
- Enhances antibiotic penetration into bronchial tissue when used adjunctively
- Provides symptomatic relief in chronic bronchitis, asthma, and bronchiectasis
- Supports faster recovery in acute respiratory infections by promoting productive cough
- Well-tolerated with a low incidence of serious adverse effects
Common use
Bromhexine is primarily indicated for respiratory conditions characterized by excessive, viscous mucus production. It is commonly prescribed for acute and chronic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, bronchiectasis, and tracheobronchitis. It is also used as an adjunct therapy in respiratory tract infections to improve antibiotic efficacy and mucus clearance. In some cases, it may be utilized pre- and post-operatively to prevent pulmonary complications. Off-label uses include management of otitis media and sinusitis where mucus dissolution is beneficial.
Dosage and direction
Adults and children over 10 years: 8 mg (one tablet or 10 ml oral solution) three times daily.
Children 5–10 years: 4 mg (half tablet or 5 ml oral solution) three times daily.
Children under 5 years: Dosing should be determined by a pediatrician based on weight and clinical need.
Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, preferably after meals to minimize gastric irritation. The oral solution should be measured using the provided dosing cup or syringe. Treatment duration typically ranges from 7 to 14 days for acute conditions, though chronic use may be advised under medical supervision. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in hepatic impairment.
Precautions
Use with caution in patients with a history of gastric ulceration, as bromhexine may cause gastrointestinal irritation. Hepatic function should be monitored during prolonged therapy. Patients with poor cough reflex or respiratory insufficiency should be supervised, as increased mucus production could potentially lead to airway obstruction. There is limited data regarding use during pregnancy and lactation—use only if potential benefits justify potential risks. Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to bromhexine or related compounds.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to bromhexine hydrochloride or any excipients in the formulation. Severe hepatic impairment where metabolism may be compromised. Not recommended in cases of active peptic ulcer disease due to potential for exacerbation. Should not be used in patients with conditions where reduced mucus viscosity might be detrimental, such as in those with inadequate cough reflex.
Possible side effect
Most side effects are mild and transient. Common reactions include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and diarrhea. Less frequently, dizziness, headache, and sweating have been reported. Allergic reactions like rash, urticaria, and angioedema are rare. Isolated cases of elevated liver enzymes have been documented, though causal relationship is not firmly established.
Drug interaction
No clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions are well-documented. However, concomitant use with antibiotics such as amoxicillin, erythromycin, and tetracyclines may enhance their penetration into bronchial secretions. Theoretical potential exists for increased gastric irritation when used with NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Always inform your healthcare provider of all concomitant medications.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain the regular dosing schedule. Consistent administration is important for maintaining mucolytic effect, but occasional missed doses are unlikely to significantly impact overall efficacy.
Overdose
No specific antidote exists. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal distress. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent. Supportive measures should be employed, including hydration and symptomatic treatment. Dialysis is not expected to be effective due to bromhexine’s protein binding and volume of distribution.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15–30°C) in a dry place, protected from light. Keep the container tightly closed. Do not freeze the oral solution. Keep out of reach of children. Discard any unused portion after the completion of therapy or by the expiration date, whichever comes first.
Disclaimer
This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and individualized treatment recommendations. Dosage, indications, and precautions may vary based on patient-specific factors and regional prescribing guidelines.
Reviews
Bromhexine has been extensively studied and widely used since the 1960s. Clinical trials and meta-analyses generally support its efficacy in reducing sputum viscosity and improving symptoms in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and acute bronchitis. Patient reports often note improved ease of expectoration and reduced coughing effort. Some criticisms include modest effect size in mild cases and variability in individual response. Overall, it remains a valued option in mucolytic therapy.