Drug Study: Ambroxol

Name ofDrug

Action and Properties IndicationsDosage and

AdministrationContra

indicationsSide Effects

NursingConsideration

Brand Names: Mucosolvan and Mucoangin

Generic Name: Ambroxol Hydrochloride

Manufacturer: Boehringer-Ingelheim

Mucolytic;

Ambroxol is used for infections of the upper respiratory tract. It clears airways and eases cough.Properties:Ambroxol is used for infections of the upper respiratory tract. It clears airways and eases cough. Preclinically, ambroxol, the active ingredient of MUCOSOLVAN, has been shown to increase respiratory tract secretion. It enhances pulmonary surfactant production and stimulates ciliary activity. These actions result in improved mucus flow and transport (mucociliary clearance). Improvement of mucociliary clearance has been shown in clinical pharmacologic studies. Enhancement of fluid secretion and mucociliary clearance facilitates expectoration and eases cough.

Secretolytic therapy in acute and chronic bronchopulmonary diseasesassociated with abnormalmucus secretion and impaired mucus transport.

Adults : 1 prolonged action capsule once daily, either in the morning or evening after a mealThe capsules should not be opened or chewed, but swallowed whole with ample liquid. The "carrier tablets" which are occasionally present in the stools have released the activesubstance during their passage through the digestive system and are therefore without significance.MUCOSOLVAN prolonged action capsules are not suitable for children under 12 years.

MUCOSOLVAN should not be used in patients known to be hypersensitive to ambroxol or other components of the formulation.

MUCOSOLVAN is generally well tolerated. Mild upper gastro-intestinal side effects (primarily pyrosis, dyspepsia, and occasionally nausea, vomiting) have been reported, principally following parenteral administration. Allergic reactions have occurred rarely, primarily skin rashes. Therehave been extremely rare case reports of severe acute anaphylactic-type reactions but their relationship to ambroxol is uncertain. Some ofthese patients have also shown allergic reactions to other substances.

Assessment & Drug Effects•Monitor for S&S of aspiration of excesssecretions, andforbronchospasm(unpredictable);withhold drug and notify physician immediatelyif eitheroccur.•Lab tests: Monitor ABGs, pulmonary functions and pulse oximetry as indicated.•Have suction apparatus immediately available.Increased volume of respiratory tract fluid may be liberated; suction orendotracheal aspiration may be necessary to establisha nd maintainan open airway.Patient & Family Education•Report difficulty with clearing the airway or any other respiratory distress

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