With inflammatory pathologies of the respiratory system, there is a change in the rheological characteristics of sputum (increased viscosity), an increase in its production. For the treatment of respiratory diseases, expectorant and mucolytic agents are prescribed. These drugs dilute sputum, reduce its adhesive properties and accelerate excretion. All medications used for therapy are divided into several groups.
Expectorant Medicines
In this category, there are preparations based on plant components (licorice, marshmallow and others) and having resorptive activity (iodides, for example). These funds increase the amount of sputum. It should be noted that the effect of these drugs is quite short. In this regard, the administration of drugs is carried out every 2-3 hours. Increased dosages provoke side effects in the form of nausea before vomiting. The disadvantages of using these drugs include in some cases the formation of too much mucus. Young children are sometimes unable to cough up such an amount. As a result, the drainage functions of the lungs are significantly disrupted , reinfection occurs.
Mucolytic agents
In most cases, these medications are optimal for the treatment of respiratory diseases.
Among the most popular medicines, experts call such drugs as Acetylcysteine, Ambroxol, Bromhexine. Their advantages include the ability to thin the sputum without significantly increasing its volume. Many of these drugs come in various forms. This allows you to prescribe mucolytic drugs for young children. Sprays, inhalations and suspensions are very effective, providing a different method of delivery and distribution of active ingredients. What is extremely important when conducting combination therapy of pathologies of the respiratory system of acute and chronic course. Mucolytic agents are recommended for diseases of the ENT organs, which are complicated by the secretion of mucous and purulent secretions. Such pathologies include, in particular, rhinitis and sinusitis. Medications are indicated for
bronchitis, asthma, cystic fibrosis.
Popular mucolytic agents. The drug "Acetylcysteine"
This medication is considered one of the most active. Its action is based on reducing the viscosity of the mucus, liquefying and facilitating its transport from the bronchi. The drug, in addition, has antitoxic and antioxidant activity. Many mucolytic agents have a similar effect. However, the drug "Acetylcysteine" is more rapid and pronounced activity. The medication is also used as an antidote for an overdose of paracetamol. The range of indications of the drug, in general, is quite wide. In particular, the drug is recommended for intratracheal anesthesia to prevent complications. The effectiveness of the drug is manifested in oral, parenteral, endobronchial and combined use.