Bromhexine is a commonly used medication to treat productive cough and is easily available without a prescription at pharmacies. It comes in various forms, including tablets and syrups, suitable for different age groups from children to adults. However, it should not be abused.
1. The mechanism of action of the drug Bromhexin
1. Mechanism of Action of Bromhexine
Bromhexine is an expectorant. It works by activating the synthesis of sialomucin and breaking down mucopolysaccharide fibers, making the mucus thinner and less viscous. This helps the mucus to be expelled from the respiratory tract more effectively. It usually takes 2-3 days to show clinical effects.
According to the National Drug Formulary 2015, Bromhexine is indicated for:
Disorders of mucus secretion in the respiratory tract, especially in acute bronchitis, exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. It is often used as an adjunct to antibiotics in severe respiratory infections.
According to the manufacturer's recommendations, the dosage of Bromhexine is:
-Children aged 2-5 years: 4mg per dose, twice a day.
-Children aged 5-12 years: 4mg per dose, four times a day.
-Children over 12 years and adults: 8mg per dose, three times a day. The dosage can be increased to 12mg per dose, four times a day, but only under medical supervision.
Precautions When Using Bromhexine
Avoid combining with other cough medications as there is a risk of mucus accumulation in the respiratory tract.
Use with caution in patients with a history of gastric ulcers due to its mucolytic effect, which can damage the gastric mucosal barrier.
Use with caution in asthmatic patients as Bromhexine can cause bronchospasm in some sensitive individuals.
Monitor closely in patients with severe liver or kidney impairment as the clearance of Bromhexine and its metabolites may be reduced.
Use with caution in elderly or debilitated patients, and especially in children under 2 years old, as they may not be able to effectively expel mucus, increasing the risk of mucus accumulation.
Possible side effects when using Bromhexine include:
Digestive system: Upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth, elevated liver enzymes.
Nervous system: Headache, dizziness, sweating.
Skin: Rash, urticaria.
Respiratory system: Risk of mucus accumulation in patients unable to effectively expel mucus.
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Source: Vietnam National Pharmacopoeia 2015, SPC
