Description
Ambroxol Pharmacodynamics
Ambroxol is the active N-demethylated metabolite of bromhexine.
It has secretomotor, secretolytic and expectorant action.
It stimulates bronchial glands, increases motor activity of the atrial epithelium by influencing type 2 pneumocytes in alveoli and Clara cells in bronchioles, enhances formation of endogenous surfactant – a surfactant that ensures gliding of bronchial secretion in the airway lumen. Ambroxol increases the proportion of serous component in bronchial secretion, improving its structure and contributing to reduction of viscosity and thinning of sputum; as a result, mucociliary transport is improved and expulsion of sputum from the bronchial tree is facilitated.
On average, when taken orally, the action of the drug comes within 30 minutes, duration of action – 6-12 hours, depending on the dose taken.
Indications
Disorders of sputum secretion and transport in acute and chronic respiratory diseases: acute and chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchial asthma, bronchiectatic disease.
Contraindications .
Hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, hereditary intolerance to galactose, lactase deficiency or malabsorption syndrome of glucose and galactose, I trimester of pregnancy and lactation, children under 6 years.
Caution
Impaired bronchial motility and increased mucus secretion (e.g., in rare primary ciliary dyskinesia syndrome); renal failure and/or severe hepatic failure); gastric and duodenal ulcer, including in anamnesis; II-III trimesters of pregnancy.
Administration during pregnancy and breast-feeding
It is contraindicated to use the drug in the first trimester of pregnancy and during breast-feeding. Application of the drug in II-III trimesters of pregnancy is possible only after careful evaluation of the ratio of benefits from the treatment and possible risks.
Dosage and administration
- Orally, after a meal, with plenty of fluid.
Adults and children over 12 years old: 30 mg (1 tablet) 3 times per day during the first 2-3 days, then the drug dose should be reduced to 1 tablet 2 times per day. - Children of 6 to 12 years of age: 15 mg (1/2 tablet) 2 to 3 times a day.
- If symptoms of the disease persist for 4-5 days from the beginning of therapy, it is recommended to consult a physician.
