Generic
Ambroxol
107 brands available in the market
At a glance
Ambroxol is a mucolytic medication that helps thin and loosen thick mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough out. It is used in bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis and other respiratory conditions.
Description
Ambroxol is the active metabolite of bromhexine and possesses greater bronchosecretolytic effect than bromhexine. It improves sputum rheology by hydrating mucus in the respiratory tract lumen, facilitating expectoration and reducing dyspnea. It stimulates surfactant phospholipid production by alveolar cells, lowering surface tension in the alveoli. Ambroxol also has anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting cellular cytokine and arachidonic acid metabolite production.
Indications
Productive cough; acute and chronic bronchitis; sinusitis, laryngitis, pharyngitis, rhinitis; asthmatic bronchitis and bronchial asthma with thick expectoration; bronchiectasis; chronic pneumonia.
Therapeutic class
Cough Expectorants & Mucolytics
Pharmacological class
Mucolytic Agent
Pharmacology
Ambroxol is the active metabolite of bromhexine with greater bronchosecretolytic effect. It improves sputum rheology by liquefying mucus in the respiratory tract lumen, facilitating expectoration and reducing dyspnea. It stimulates surfactant phospholipid production by alveolar cells, lowering surface tension in the alveoli. Ambroxol has anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting cellular cytokine and arachidonic acid metabolite production.
Mechanism of action
Ambroxol thins and loosens thick mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough out. It reduces bronchial hyperactivity and improves airway patency.
Dosage
Pediatric Drops:
- 0-6 months: 0.5 ml 2 times daily
- 6-12 months: 1 ml 2 times daily
- 1-2 years: 1.25 ml 2 times daily
Syrup:
- 2-5 years: 2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) 2-3 times daily
- 5-10 years: 5 ml (1 tsp) 2-3 times daily
- 10 years & adults: 10 ml (2 tsp) 3 times daily
SR Capsule: Children over 12 years & adults: 1 capsule once daily.
Administration
Take with food (after meals).
Use a special dose-measuring spoon or cup for syrup (do not use a regular tablespoon).
Shake syrup well before use.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common side effects: Epigastric pain, stomach fullness, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach.
Rare: Allergic reactions (skin rash, urticaria, angioneurotic edema).
Precautions & warnings
- Use with caution in patients with gastric and duodenal ulcer
- Caution in patients with convulsive disorders
- Caution in hepatic and renal insufficiency
- Avoid use during pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- Caution during lactation
- Do not use for more than 14 days without medical advice
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to ambroxol or bromhexine.
Drug interactions
Do not use simultaneously with antitussives (e.g., codeine) as liquefied phlegm may not be expectorated.
Food interactions
Information on alcohol consumption is not available; consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
Pregnancy Category: C. Teratogenic and fetal toxicity studies have shown no harmful effect. However, it is advised to avoid use during pregnancy (especially first trimester).
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Safety during lactation has not been established; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Pediatric Drops: 0-6 months: 0.5 ml 2 times daily; 6-12 months: 1 ml 2 times daily; 1-2 years: 1.25 ml 2 times daily
Syrup: 2-5 years: 2.5 ml 2-3 times daily; 5-10 years: 5 ml 2-3 times daily; 10 years+: 10 ml 3 times daily
SR Capsule: 12 years+: 1 capsule once daily
Geriatric use
No dose adjustment needed for elderly patients; however, caution is advised due to reduced liver and kidney function.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal impairment: Caution in severe kidney disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Hepatic impairment: Caution in liver disease; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Overdose symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Treatment: symptomatic and supportive measures.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
C₁₃H₁₈Br₂N₂O (Molecular weight: 378.1 g/mol)