Expectorants
Guaifenesin
The effect of sodium 2-mercapto-ethane sulphonate and hypertonic saline aerosols on bronchial clearance in chronic bronchitis. (1/152)
1 The efficacy of a mucolytic agent, 2-mercapto-ethane sulphonate, administered in the form of an aerosol was evaluated in a group of eleven patients with chronic bronchitis in a controlled, double-blind, crossover study. 2 Saline aerosol isotonic (1.21M, 7.1%) to the drug was used as a placebo. 3 Approximately 1 ml drug/placebo was inhaled by the patients twice a day for 3 days and a final dose was given on the mornings of the drug/placebo trial runs. 4 There was no improvement in this group of patients in lung function or subjective well being attributable to the drug. 5 The viscosity of sputum, dry macromolecular weight and N-acetyl neuraminic acid/fucose ratio remained unaltered throughout the study. 6 An enhancement of tracheobronchial clearance was obtained following the administration of either placebo (31%) or drug aerosols (24%) Statistical significance (P less than 0.01) was only achieved for the placebo and was attributed to an increase in sputum volume. (+info)Intratracheal recombinant human deoxyribonuclease in acute life-threatening asthma refractory to conventional treatment. (2/152)
Recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase) is a mucolytic agent used to relieve peripheral airway obstruction in patients with cystic fibrosis. We report dramatic sustained improvement following the intratracheal administration of rhDNase to a 3-yr-old boy with acute life-threatening asthma in whom 48 h of aggressive therapy had failed. (+info)Effect of early ambroxol treatment on lung functions in mechanically ventilated preterm newborns who subsequently developed a bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). (3/152)
In a randomized trial in 102 preterm newborns with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) it has been shown that early Ambroxol treatment (30 mg kg(-1) over the first 5 days) significantly reduces the incidence of RDS-associated complications [bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), intraventricular haemorrhage, post-natal acquired pneumonia]. The aim of the present analysis was to investigate the effect of Ambroxol treatment on lung function in newborns who developed BPD. Respiratory function testing (RFT) was performed immediately after extubation and at day 28. Tidal volume (VT) and respiratory frequency (f) were measured during tidal breathing using the deadspace free flow-through technique. The lung mechanic parameter VT/maxPes was determined by measuring the maximal oesophageal pressure changes, maxPes, with a catheter tip pressure transducer. In the placebo group 36/50 infants were extubated within the first 28 days of life and 13/36 (36%) developed BPD. In the Ambroxol group 44/52 were extubated and 9/44 (20%) developed BPD. After extubation, RFT showed (i) no statistically significant difference in the ventilatory parameters of either treatment group, (ii) improved (P<0.05) lung mechanics (VT/maxPes) in Ambroxol group compared to controls (94+/-27 ml kPa(-1) vs. 8.1+/-2.6 ml kPa(-1)) and (iii) no statistically significant difference in lung function between infants with and without BPD. At day 28 we found (i) no effect of early Ambroxol treatment on lung functions, (ii) significantly (P < 0.05) higher f (58.5+/-11.7 min(-1) vs. 49.7+/-10.1 min(-1)) and significantly (P<0.01) lower V(T) (9.6+/-1.9 ml vs. 12.3+/-2.7 ml) and V(T)/maxPes (8.9+/-2.6 ml kPa(-1)] vs. 12.0+/-2.9 ml kPa(-1)) in infants with BPD compared to infants without and (iii) these differences are not influenced by early Ambroxol treatment. If the process of BPD development is induced, early Ambroxol treatment has no influence on impaired lung function at day 28. (+info)The effect of oral N-acetylcysteine in chronic bronchitis: a quantitative systematic review. (4/152)
The role of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the treatment of chronic bronchitis is unclear. Since a number of studies have been published on this topic, a systematic review of published studies seems justified. A systematic search (Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, bibliographies, no language restriction) for published randomized trials comparing oral NAC with placebo in patients with chronic bronchitis was performed. Dichotomous data on prevention of exacerbation, improvement of symptoms and adverse effects were extracted from original reports. The relative benefit and number-needed-to-treat were calculated for both individual trials and combined data. Thirty-nine trials were retrieved; eleven (2,011 analysed patients), published 1976-1994, were regarded as relevant and valid according to preset criteria. In nine studies, 351 of 723 (48.5%) patients receiving NAC had no exacerbation compared with 229 of 733 (31.2%) patients receiving placebo (relative benefit 1.56 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.37-1.77), number-needed-to-treat 5.8 (95% CI 4.5-8.1). There was no evidence of any effect of study period (12-24 weeks) or cumulative dose of NAC on efficacy. In five trials, 286 of 466 (61.4%) patients receiving NAC reported improvement of their symptoms compared with 160 of 462 (34.6%) patients receiving placebo (relative benefit 1.78 (95% CI 1.54-2.05), number-needed-to-treat 3.7 (95% CI 3.0-4.9)). With NAC, 68 of 666 (10.2%) patients reported gastrointestinal adverse effects compared with 73 of 671 (10.9%) taking placebo. With NAC, 79 of 1,207 (6.5%) patients withdrew from the study due to adverse effects, compared with 87 of 1,234 (7.1%) receiving placebo. In conclusion, with treatment periods of approximately 12-24 weeks, oral N-acetylcysteine reduces the risk of exacerbations and improves symptoms in patients with chronic bronchitis compared with placebo, without increasing the risk of adverse effects. Whether this benefit is sufficient to justify the routine and long-term use of N-acetylcysteine in all patients with chronic bronchitis should be addressed in further studies and cost-effectiveness analyses. (+info)Natural treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis. (5/152)
Perennial allergic rhinitis is an IgE-mediated inflammatory disorder of the nasal mucosa characterized by paroxysms of sneezing, nasal congestion, pruritus, and rhinorrhea. The condition may be caused by certain environmental agents, food sensitivities, structural abnormalities, metabolic conditions, or synthetic drugs. Recent health impairment outcome studies on allergic rhinitis sufferers reveal a measurable decline in physical and mental health status and the inability to perform daily activities. Antihistamines, decongestants, anticholinergic agents, and corticosteroid drug therapy, alone or in combination, are typically used in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Reported adverse side effects include sedation, impaired learning/memory, and cardiac arrhythmias. Therapeutic strategies should seek to decrease the morbidity already associated with this condition. Urtica dioica, bromelain, quercetin, N-acetylcysteine, and vitamin C are safe, natural therapies that may be used as primary therapy or in conjunction with conventional methods. (+info)N-acetylcysteine. (6/152)
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is the acetylated precursor of both the amino acid L-cysteine and reduced glutathione (GSH). Historically it has been used as a mucolytic agent in chronic respiratory illnesses as well as an antidote for hepatotoxicity due to acetaminophen overdose. More recently, animal and human studies of NAC have shown it to be a powerful antioxidant and a potential therapeutic agent in the treatment of cancer, heart disease, HIV infection, heavy metal toxicity, and other diseases characterized by free radical oxidant damage. NAC has also been shown to be of some value in treating Sjogren's syndrome, smoking cessation, influenza, hepatitis C, and myoclonus epilepsy. (+info)Inhibitory effect of N-acetylcysteine on adherence of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae to human oropharyngeal epithelial cells in vitro. (7/152)
BACKGROUND: Bacterial adherence to mucosal and epithelial cell structures is of importance for the persistence of bacteria in the airways. Cigarette smoking and chronic bronchitis are associated with increased bacterial adherence. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) medication reduces the number of infectious exacerbations in patients with chronic bronchitis, and NAC medication has been associated with low intrabronchial bacterial numbers. OBJECTIVE: We investigated whether NAC influences bacterial adherence as a possible mechanism behind its clinical effects. METHODS: Highly adhering test strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae were used to investigate the influence of four pharmacological compounds on adherence to oropharyngeal epithelial cells in vitro. Adhesion assays were performed both during short-term exposure to, as well as after long-time incubation with, NAC, lidocaine, hydrocortisone and terbutaline at concentrations not inhibiting bacterial growth. RESULTS: Only NAC showed a significant inhibitory effect on adhesion of H. influenzae during short-term incubation. After long-term incubation, both NAC and hydrocortisone inhibited bacterial adhesion for both strains in a dose-dependent manner. When NAC's effect on three different strains of S. pneumoniae and four strains of H. influenzae was studied, inhibition of bacterial adhesion was found for three strains of each species. CONCLUSIONS: NAC lowers bacterial adhesion in vitro to oropharyngeal epithelial cells in doses equivalent to that is being used clinically. This effect might be a contributory mechanism behind the reduction of infectious exacerbations in chronic bronchitis patients. (+info)Effects of N-acetylcysteine and ambroxol on the production of IL-12 and IL-10 in human alveolar macrophages. (8/152)
BACKGROUND: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and ambroxol (AMB) have recently been proposed as possible therapeutic agents in the treatment of pulmonary disorders. IL-12 plays an important role in host resistance to infection and the development of Th-1 cells. In contrast, IL-10 is involved in anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory mechanisms. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the effects of NAC and AMB on secretions of IL-12 and IL-10 from human alveolar macrophages. METHODS: Alveolar macrophages were obtained from 7 healthy nonsmokers by bronchoalveolar lavage. The cells were first incubated with either NAC or AMB for 2 h and then cultured in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) solution for 24 h. IL-12 and IL-10 secretions were measured by ELISA. RESULT: Both NAC and AMB enhanced LPS-induced secretion of IL-12. NAC also enhanced LPS-induced IL-10 secretion, while AMB did not. The ratio IL-12/IL-10 secretion was increased by AMB, but NAC did not affect it. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that NAC enhances inflammatory and immune responses and prevents excessive responses reciprocally, through keeping local balance of IL-12 and IL-10 production in alveolar macrophages at inflammatory sites of bacterial pneumonia. AMB appears to strengthen inflammatory responses and cell-mediated immunity, facilitating the development of Th-1 cells, through shifting the local balance to IL-12 dominance. (+info)Expectorants are a type of medication that help to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear the airways. They work by increasing the production of fluid in the respiratory tract, which helps to moisten and soften thick or sticky mucus. This makes it easier for the cilia (tiny hair-like structures that line the airways) to move the mucus out of the lungs and into the throat, where it can be swallowed or spit out.
Expectorants are often used to treat respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can cause excessive mucus production and difficulty breathing. Some common expectorants include guaifenesin, iodinated glycerol, and potassium iodide.
It is important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when taking expectorants, as taking too much can lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids while taking expectorants, as this can help to thin the mucus and make it easier to cough up.
Guaifenesin is a medication that belongs to the class of expectorants. According to the Medical Dictionary by Farlex, guaifenesin is defined as:
"A salicylate-free agent with expectorant properties; it increases respiratory secretions and decreases their viscosity, making coughs more productive. It is used as an antitussive in bronchitis and other respiratory tract infections."
Guaifenesin works by helping to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear the airways of bothersome mucus and phlegm. It is commonly available as an over-the-counter medication for relieving symptoms associated with a common cold, flu, or other respiratory infections.
Guaifenesin can be found in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, liquid, or extended-release products. Common brand names of guaifenesin include Mucinex and Robitussin. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the product label and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions about its use or if your symptoms persist for more than one week.
Bromhexine is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as mucolytic agents. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear the airways. This can be particularly helpful for people with respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.
Bromhexine is available in various forms, including tablets, syrup, and solution for inhalation. It is typically taken two to three times a day, and the dosage may vary depending on the individual's age, weight, and medical condition.
It is important to follow the instructions of a healthcare provider when taking bromhexine or any other medication. Side effects of bromhexine may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. In rare cases, it may cause more serious side effects such as allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or irregular heartbeat. People with a history of asthma, stomach ulcers, or bleeding disorders should use bromhexine with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.