Expectorant
Expectorants
Expectorants thin mucus so it’s cleared more easily out of the airways. They also soothe mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. The result is a more productive cough.
Guaifenesin
The most commonly used expectorant is guaifenesin.
Pharmacokinetics
Guaifenesin is absorbed through the GI tract, metabolized by the liver, and excreted primarily by the kidneys.
Pharmacodynamics
By increasing production of respiratory tract fluids, expectorants reduce the thickness, adhesiveness, and surface tension of mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways. Expectorants also provide a soothing effect on the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
Pharmacotherapeutics
Guaifenesin is used to relieve symptoms due to ineffective, productive coughs from many disorders, such as:
- bronchial asthma
- bronchitis
- colds
- emphysema
- influenza
- minor bronchial irritation
- sinusitis.
Warning!
Adverse reactions to guaifenesin
Adverse reactions to guaifenesin include:
- nausea
- vomiting (if taken in large doses)
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- drowsiness
- headache
- hives
- rash.
Drug interactions
Guaifenesin isn’t known to have specific drug interactions; however, it does cause some adverse reactions
Thanks for your visit..!