Erdosteine

Erdosteine is mucolytic medication. It is used in the treatment of various respiratory tract disorders associated with excessive mucus. It works by breaking up mucus (phlegm), making it easier to cough out.

Erdosteine should be taken with or without food. For better results, it is suggested to take it at the same time every day. The dose and how often you take it depends on what you are taking it for. Your doctor will decide how much you need to improve your symptoms.

You should consult with the doctor if the condition does not get improved after 10 days. The most common side effects include Flushing, increased sweating, nausea, vertigo, and vomiting.

• Respiratory tract disorders: Used in the treatment of various respiratory diseases associated with viscid mucus, including acute and chronic bronchitis.

Cough expectorants & mucolytics

Mucolytic

Erdosteine is a prodrug that is metabolised into N-thiodiglycolyl-homocysteine whereby free thiol groups are formed leading to the opening of the disulphide bonds of the bronchial mucoproteins, thus reducing the viscosity of mucus and purulent sputum. It also antagonises the local formation of free radicals and inhibits elastase enzyme activity and bacterial adhesion to epithelial cells.

Erdosteine contains two sulfhydryl groups, which are freed after metabolic transformation in the liver. The liberated sulfhydryl groups break the disulphide bonds, which hold the glycoprotein fibres of mucus together. This makes the bronchial secretions more fluid and enhances elimination.

Adult Dose:

• Mucolytic: 300 mg bid; Max duration: 10 days.
• Chronic cases: May be given up to 12 months as directed by physician.
• Mild hepatic impairment: Max: 300 mg daily.
• Severe hepatic impairment: Not recommended.

Renal Dose: CrCl <25 mL/min: Contraindicated.

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Do not chew, crush or break it. Erdosteine may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time. Measure with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon.

If you miss a dose of Erdosteine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk)
• Increased sweating
• Nausea
• Vertigo
• Vomiting
• Epigastric pain

Other Side Effects:

• Headache
• Cold
• Taste alterations
• Diarrhea
• Angioedema
• Skin allergic reactions

Precautions:

• Erdosteine does not usually affect your ability to drive.
• It helps in thinning and removal of mucus from the airways.
• Your doctor may check your liver functions before starting.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.
• Inform your doctor if you have any stomach or kidney problem.
• In mild liver failure, do not exceed a dose of 300 mg per day.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to Erdosteine
• Active peptic ulcer
• Severe liver failure
• Creatinine clearance <25 mL/min

Drug Interactions: No known significant drug interactions.

Food Interactions: It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Erdosteine. Consult your doctor.

Use in Pregnancy: Information regarding the use of Erdosteine during pregnancy is not available. Consult your doctor.

Use in Lactation: Information regarding the use of Erdosteine during breastfeeding is not available. Consult your doctor.

Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in children under 18 years have not been established.

Geriatric Use: Usual dose for elderly: 1 capsule twice daily.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution. CrCl <25 mL/min: Contraindicated.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution. Mild to moderate: Max 300 mg daily; Severe: Contraindicated.

Overdose: Limited information is available on overdose. In case of overdose, symptomatic treatment should be given and seek immediate medical attention.

Storage: Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

Erdosteine