Medicines for wet and dry coughs

In the pharmacy network today you can find dozens of varieties of different remedies for wet and dry cough, not counting the new ones that are periodically supplied by pharmaceutical companies, expanding their range. For a detailed description of all existing drugs one article is not enough. And there is no great need for it, because full information about medicines is contained in the instructions to them, attached by the manufacturer in a mandatory manner.

However, the information contained in the accompanying instructions is not always understandable to the average person, because it is often written in scientific language, which implies the use of special terms and medical concepts. It should be said that the average person simply does not need a lot of information. It is more important for the patient to understand in which case the drug should be taken, what effect it has (in plain language) and what is the recommended dose. For your own safety, it is better to have information about contraindications to use, side effects, storage conditions of the drug and some of its important features. We will provide our readers with just this information about some of the wet cough remedies offered by doctors.

"Gerbion."

Under this trade name, not one drug is produced, but a whole series of remedies for the treatment of cough in various diseases of the respiratory tract. With such a symptom as a cough, the most relevant are syrups "Gerbion". These are sweet plant-based compositions (plantain, ivy, primrose), taking into account the beneficial effects of their active components. Syrups "Gerbion" from wet and dry coughs are authorized for use from the age of 2 years.

Plantain syrup in addition to the extract of the herb itself contains an extract of flowers of witch hazel (mallow) and vitamin C, which makes it very effective in colds. It has anti-inflammatory and soothing effect. It does not stimulate the cough reflex, does not increase the production of mucus, but on the contrary, soothes the agonizing symptom. It is inappropriate to use it for wet cough, except after the acute symptoms of the disease subside, when the cough becomes unproductive, but prevents normal rest and eating.

Syrup of primrose, in addition to primrose extract (primrose) also contains thyme extract (thyme). Studying the pharmacodynamics of the drug, we see that here, along with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action, we have an expectorant effect, useful in difficult wet cough.

Method of application and dosage. Take the drug after meals. It is desirable to wash it down with warm water. Dosing is carried out using a measuring spoon attached to the syrup (5 ml).

Babies up to 5 years of age are recommended to give half a scoop of syrup at a time. Children up to 14 years of age, the dosage is increased to 1 scoop, and older children - up to 2 scoops. The adult dose is 15 ml or 3 scoops.

Children under 14 years of age should be given the syrup 3 times a day, in older patients the frequency of use can be increased to 4 times.

Ivy syrup does not contain additional active substances. It is used as an expectorant in dry, unproductive or difficult productive cough, stimulates the secretory function of the bronchi, relaxes the muscles of the airways, liquefies sputum.

Method of administration and dosage. For this medicine, the intake of food is not crucial, so it should be taken 3 times a day at regular intervals, regardless of the time of food and liquids. By the way, drinking during treatment with expectorants should be abundant, which helps to reduce the viscosity of sputum.

For babies up to 6 years of age, a dose of 2.5 ml (half a measuring spoon) is recommended, children 6-10 years of age, the dose is doubled (5 ml). Older patients can take 1-1.5 scoops of the medicine.

Contraindications to use. A common contraindication for all medicines is intolerance to at least one of the components of the drug. A specific contraindication for syrup of primrose is bronchial asthma. The same syrup is not recommended to give children who have had croup, as well as persons with diabetes mellitus and disorders of sugar metabolism. The latter is also true for ivy syrup.

Theuse of these syrupsduring pregnancy is limited, as there is no experimental evidence to support their safety for the mother and fetus. In such cases, the decision is usually left to the attending physician who has some experience with these products.

Side effects. Since we are talking about herbal preparations, it should be understood that in some people they can cause allergic reactions, usually occurring in a mild form. Reactions from the GI tract in the form of nausea and stool disorders are not excluded. Vomiting is possible in people with sensitive stomachs.

Anoverdose of drugs increases the risk of side effects. In this case, you should stop taking syrups.

Storage conditions for syrups "Gerbion" are the same. They are not afraid of sunlight, because they are packaged in dark glass bottles. At a temperature of 15-25 degrees, they perfectly retain their properties during the shelf life, which is 2 years for ivy syrup, for other syrups - 3 years.

But it should be borne in mind that the shelf life of drugs in an opened bottle is markedly reduced and is 3 months.

Erespal

A drug available in the form of tablets and syrup, the active ingredient of which is fenspiride.

Pharmacodynamics. Both forms of the drug have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action, prevent bronchial obstruction with excessive production of mucus (reduces the volume of inflammatory exudate) and its difficult excretion. This drug does not have an expectorant effect, but facilitates the expulsion of sputum by relaxing the muscles of the respiratory tract, and therefore is a prevention of respiratory problems.

Pharmacokinetics. The relevance of the use of peroral forms of the drug is explained by its good absorption in the GI tract. The active substance rapidly accumulates in the blood and acts within 12 hours. The drug residue is excreted mainly by the kidneys.

The use of syrup is possible from the newborn period. Tablets are considered a medicine for adult patients.

Method of application and doses. Children from birth to 2 years the amount of sweet medicine per day is calculated based on their body weight of the baby. When it is less than 10 kg, the recommended dose is between 1 and 2 tsp. During the day. When the weight of the child is more than 10 kg, the dose should be increased to 3-4 tsp. During the day.

A child of two years and older can be given the medicine in the minimum adult dosage. The dose that is recommended by doctors for the treatment of schoolchildren and adults ranges from 30-90 ml The patient's condition and tolerance of the drug are conditions that affect the choice of an effective dose.

Tablets for adult patients are given in a daily dosage of 160-240 mg

Overdose with the drug is possible if it is used in doses almost 10 times the maximum daily dose of 240 mg of fenspiride (1 tsp. Contains 10 g of active ingredient).

Contraindications to use are identical to syrups "Gerbion". At the same time, diabetes mellitus and disorders of sugar metabolism should not be regarded as absolute contraindications, but with these pathologies it is worth observing a certain caution. Adults with such pathologies are recommended treatment with tablets that do not contain sugar.

Side effects. Much more often than other body systems, the digestive system reacts to the drug by the appearance of discomfort in the epigastrium. Usually complaints are received about stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea. Allergic, anaphylactic reactions, tachycardia and other minor failures of the cardiovascular system, daytime sleepiness, rapid fatigue and dizziness are rare complaints.

Use during pregnancy. Manufacturers due to the lack of official data from experimental studies of the effect of fenspiride on the fetus and the course of pregnancy do not recommend future mothers to be treated with this drug. But at the same time, they make such a remark that therapy with this drug for wet cough is not a reason to terminate pregnancy.

Interaction with other drugs. Fenspiride in large doses may cause drowsiness in patients. In this regard, it is better to limit the use of sleeping pills and sedatives.

The drug should be stored for no more than 3 years in room conditions. This requirement is relevant for any form of release of "Erespal".

Gedelix

This is a series of drugs used in colds of the respiratory tract, accompanied by the release of viscous mucus. The medicines are used for problematic wet cough with difficult to separate sputum.

Gedelix capsules based on eucalyptus oil, intended for the treatment of patients over 12 years of age. They have an excitatory effect on the bronchi, stimulate their peristalsis, which provides an expectorant effect.

Method of administration and dosage. The drug should be taken without chewing, 2-3 capsules a day, drinking enough warm water.

Contraindications to use: taking capsules is not recommended for patients with hypersensitivity to eucalyptus oil, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and biliary tract, liver, bronchial asthma, whooping cough and other pathologies of the respiratory system with hypersensitivity of the bronchi.

The drug is not recommended for the treatment of pregnant women (there are no studies) and nursing mothers (the active substance is taken into breast milk).

Side effects. Most often patients complain of unpleasant symptoms of the digestive system, general weakness, allergic reactions are possible.

In case of drug overdose, headache, dizziness, convulsions, cyanosis, ataxia and some other unpleasant symptoms may join the GI disturbance. In severe cases, there are failures in the heart. Treatment: gastric lavage and symptomatic therapy.

Interaction with other drugs. Eucalyptus oil may affect the metabolism and weaken the effect of barbiturates, antiepileptic drugs, sleeping pills, analgesics.

The capsules can be stored for 3 years at room temperature.

"Gedelix" solution (drops that do not contain alcohol) has a different composition. The drug is presented in the form of ivy extract in combination with essential oils (peppermint, eucalyptus, anise). It helps to increase the secretion of bronchial glands, their relaxation and liquefaction of sputum secreted during coughing.

Drops are allowed for use from 2 years of age. Their administration does not depend on the time of meal. The frequency of intake - 3 times a day. Drops can be taken undiluted or together with water, tea, juices.

Babies up to 4 years old should be given 16 drops, children up to 10 years old - 21 drops, older patients 31 drops per intake.

Gedelix Syrup: It is a condensed extract of ivy with anise oil and sweetener.

The drug does not need to be diluted with water, but it is recommended to drink.

The dose for children under 10 years of age is 2.5 ml per administration, but toddlers 2-4 years old take the medicine 3 times a day, and older children - 4 times. The dose for patients over 10 years of age is 5 ml when the medicine is taken 3 times a day.

In case of overdose with the drug, digestive system disorders and hyperexcitability are noted.

Contraindications to use and side effects of drops and syrup are identical to capsules. Children under 2 years of age should not be given the drug because of the high risk of spasm of the respiratory tract. It is not recommended for the treatment of pregnant and lactating women. Syrup contains sorbitol and is contraindicated in case of fructose intolerance.

Caution should be observed in patients with diabetes mellitus, inflammatory and erosive-ulcerous diseases of the stomach.

It is recommended to store the drops or syrup at room temperature for no more than 5 years. But if the bottle has been opened, its shelf life is reduced to 6 months.

Ambrobene

Under this name on the shelves of pharmacies you can find tablets, capsules with increased dosage, drops, syrup and solution for injection with the active substance ambroxol. This is a well-known mucolytic, reducing the viscosity of sputum, improving its excretion, increasing bronchial secretion.

Pharmacokinetics: Regardless of the possibilities and methods of drug administration, the active substance is absorbed rather quickly into the blood, the effect occurs no later than half an hour after taking peroral forms. Injections of the drug act almost instantly. The action of ambroxol persists for at least 6 hours.

The drug is excreted mainly with urine.

Method of administration and dosage. Standard tablets and capsules with prolonged action are intended for therapy of patients over 12 years of age. Tablets are prescribed up to 3 times a day (60-90 mg), and capsules with increased dosage should be used once a day (single dose of 75mg corresponds to the contents of one capsule). Children under 6 years of age are allowed to give the drug in a small dosage (half a tablet per administration) up to 3 times during the day.

Doctors recommend "Ambrobene" in solution (drops on water) to be used both orally and as part of inhalation solutions. In pediatrics it is used from the newborn period.

It is recommended to take the solution after meals, diluting it with neutral drinks or water.

Infants and toddlers up to 2 years of age are recommended a dose of 1 ml. Which contains 15 mg of the active component. The number of receptions - 2 times a day. Children up to 6 years of age are given the same dose 3 times a day.

Children 6-12 years old should take 2 ml of the therapeutic composition three times a day. The dose for patients over 12 years of age is 4 ml at the same dosing frequency.

A maximum of 120 mg of ambroxol per day (16 mL) may be taken during the first few days of treatment.

For inhalations usually use 2-3 ml of solution, carrying out procedures up to 2 times a day.

Syrup, which contains 15 mg of ambroxol per 5 ml, is also suitable for treating the youngest patients. The dosage for children from birth to 5 years of age is 2.5 ml per administration, but babies under 2 years of age should take this dose 2 times a day, and children 3-5 years of age - 3 times.

For children under 12 years of age, a dose of 5 ml per administration with a frequency of application up to 3 times a day is recommended. Adults during the first days of treatment should take 10 ml per administration 3 times a day, then the frequency of drug administration should be reduced to 2 times a day.

Contraindications to use. Preparations of any form of release are not used with hypersensitivity to ambroxol or other components of the drug for wet cough. They can also provoke an exacerbation of gastric and duodenal ulcers. Syrup should be taken with caution by people with impaired metabolism of sugars.

Ambroxol is considered dangerous in the first months of pregnancy (up to 12-14 weeks), when its use is highly undesirable. It is also not indicated for nursing mothers (if the mother needs to be treated, the child is transferred to artificial feeding).

Side effects: "Ambrobene" preparations are well tolerated by most patients. Most often there are complaints of allergic reactions, and with prolonged use of possible symptoms of the GI tract (stomach pain and nausea).

Interaction with other drugs. With simultaneous administration of "Ambrobene" and some antibiotics, increases the content of the latter in bronchial secretion, their concentration in lung tissue, which increases the effectiveness of antimicrobial therapy for infectious diseases of the respiratory system.

Storage conditions. All preparations of "Ambrobene" are recommended to be stored in a darkened place at a temperature of up to 25 degrees. Drops and syrup can not be cooled much, the lower limit of recommended temperatures - 8 degrees.

Theshelf life of any form of "Ambrobene" is 5 years (except for the injectable solution, which can be stored for 4 years from the date of release), but after opening the bottles of syrup and peroral drops can be stored for no more than 1 year.

Lasolvan

A drug that is analogous in its active substance to such drugs as "Ambroxol" and "Ambrobene". It is available in the form of tablets, drops (solution for ingestion and inhalation) and syrups (children's contains 15 mg of ambroxol, adult - 30 ml of ambroxol per 5 ml). Dosages, route of administration and all other information about the drug, including the shelf life, are similar to those described above (see "Ambrobene").

Prospan

Another effective remedy for wet cough based on ivy. All forms of the drug (sweet effervescent tablets to be dissolved in cold or hot water, sweet syrup, suspension in sticks that does not contain sugar) contain ivy extract and additional components that are different for each form.

The drug promotes relaxation of the bronchi, helps to reduce the viscosity of separated sputum and facilitate its movement outward. Mild anti-cough action does not disrupt the regulation of breathing in the brain, which is characteristic of drugs for dry cough.

Method of administration and dosage. Tablets before use are completely dissolved in a glass of water. They can be offered to patients from 4 years of age.

The standard single dose of the drug is 1 tablet. Depending on the age of the patient, the frequency of drug administration is regulated. Children under 12 years of age should take a half dose 3 times during the day, older patients - a full dose twice a day.

Syrup is a medicine for different ages, starting from birth. Manufacturers recommend that children up to 6 years of age offer the medicine in a dosage of 2.5 ml, from 6 to 14 years - 5 ml, older - up to 7.5 ml. The medicine should be taken at any age three times a day.

Suspension (oral solution without alcohol) is intended for therapy of patients over 6 years of age. Up to 12 years old children should receive 1 stick of the drug twice a day, older patients are given the same amount three times during the day.

The syrup can be taken pure or with water, depending on tolerance. The solution does not require dilution.

Sweet tablets and syrup are forms not recommended for diabetics and people with impaired absorption of sugars. A suspension containing no sweeteners is more suitable for such patients.

Contraindications and side effects of "Prospan" correspond to the above-described drugs with the same active ingredient, such as "Ivy Extract Gerbion".

You can store the medication "Prospan" at room temperature for three years. But it is important to take into account that opened vials and sachets have a much shorter shelf life. They can be stored for no more than 3 months from the date of first use.

"ACC."

A more modern analog of the drug "Acetylcysteine" with the same active ingredient, which is a derivative of the amino acid cysteine. It is available in the form of forms for oral administration: effervescent tablets of different dosage, granular powder in metered dose sachets (with and without flavorings) and bottles (children's ACC), ready oral solution with cherry flavor (syrup).

Pharmacodynamics: The drug regulates the viscosity of bronchial secretion (mucoregulator), directly affects the structure of mucus (mucolytic), has pronounced antioxidant properties characteristic of amino acid, improves the functionality of the bronchopulmonary system.

Pharmacokinetics. The drug is rapidly absorbed from the GI tract during oral administration. It is excreted mainly by kidneys in inactive state, but some part of metabolites can be found in feces.

Active metabolites of acetylcysteine are able to cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in amniotic fluid.

Method of use and dosage. Fizzy tablets of different dosage used, dissolving them in a glass of water (warm or cold).

Sachets with the preparation for preparation of a hot drink with the ability to dilate the bronchi (bronchodilation) are dipped in hot water. The drink is taken without waiting for it to cool down.

Powder for the preparation of a solution for internal use, which has a low dosage, dissolve in water of any temperature. The recommended volume of water is 100 ml.

ACC for children in the form of powder, packed in bottles, is prepared at the beginning of treatment, adding cold water to the bottle to the specified marks and shaking it thoroughly. The procedure will have to be done several times until the volume is brought to the top mark. During application, it will only be necessary to measure out the required dose.

All forms of the drug are allowed to be used from 2 years of age, but on the prescription of a doctor, the medicine in powder and syrup can be prescribed to children from 10 days of age. A daily dosage of 100-150 mg of acetylcysteine divided into 2-3 doses is considered safe for babies up to two years of age.

Children over 2 years of age can be given no more than 400 mg per day, taking into account the dosage of the form of the drug used. Children over 6 years of age and adults can take up to 600 mg of acetylcysteine per day. For children, it is better to distribute the daily dose of the drug into 2-3 equal portions.

Overdose with the drug is unlikely, but if it does occur, it will be manifested mainly by symptoms of dyspeptic nature that do not require hospitalization.

Contraindications to the use of ACE preparations include hypersensitivity to the components of the selected dosage form, exacerbation of gastric and duodenal ulcers, bleeding (gastric, pulmonary).

As for the use of drugs during pregnancy, it is not prohibited, despite the fact that the active ingredient penetrates into the amniotic fluid. However, it is undesirable to take the drug during this period without a doctor's prescription.

Side effects occur infrequently when using acetylcysteine medicines. It may be stool disturbance, nausea, heartburn, headache, tachycardia. Reduced blood pressure and allergic reactions are possible. In rare cases, bronchial spasm, tinnitus and ringing in the ears may occur.

Interaction with other drugs. When treating infectious diseases of the respiratory tract, it should be taken into account that acetylcysteine is not recommended to be taken simultaneously with some antibiotics, because it negatively affects the effectiveness of both drugs. The recommended interval between taking ACC and antibiotics is 2 or more hours.

The use of acetylcysteine with bronchodilators gives a stronger therapeutic effect.

It is not recommended to take ACZ and activated charcoal or other sorbents at the same time, as the effectiveness of treatment will be reduced.

Acetylcysteine enhances the specific effect of nitroglycerin and reduces the toxic effect of paracetamol on the liver.

Storage conditions. Powders and tablets manufacturer ACZ recommends storing in normal conditions no more than 3, and syrup - no more than 2 years. It should be taken into account that the prepared solution can be stored for no more than 12 days in a cold place (temperature 2-8 degrees Celsius). An opened bottle with syrup does not have to be placed in the cold, but it can only be used for 1.5 weeks, after which the remains are disposed of.

Fluditec

Mucoregulator and expectorant based on carbicysteine. Under this name, 2 versions of syrups can be found in the pharmacy: sweet children's syrups with a concentration of the active ingredient of 2% and adult syrups with a higher concentration (5%), but less sucrose content. Do not look for tablets "Fluditek" in pharmacies, since this form of release does not exist. But there are other preparations in the form of capsules with the same active ingredient as the syrup "Fluditec": "Carbocysteine", "Mukosol", "Mukodin".

Pharmacodynamics. Preparations with the active substance carbocysteine are considered as a more modern and promising method of treatment of diseases accompanied by excruciating wet cough. Carbocysteine is simultaneously attributed to both mucolytic and mucoregulatory action. It does not directly affect the structure of mucus, as mucolytics do, but restores its elastic properties, equalizes the balance of protective components (mucins with antibacterial and antiviral activity) in the mucus produced by bronchial glands, regulates the volume of mucus secreted, contributes to the increase of local immunity, which is especially important in case of recurrent infections.

The active ingredient of syrups "Fluditek" also has regenerating (restores damaged bronchial epithelial cells), antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, regulating the immune system.

Pharmacokinetics. Due to rapid absorption of carbocysteine in the gastrointestinal tract to obtain a rapid effect, the drug does not need to be injected. After a couple of hours, the maximum concentration of the active substance in the blood is noted, and the therapeutic effect is maintained for 8 hours.

The excretion of carbocysteine residues and metabolites is handled primarily by the kidneys.

How to use and dosage. Children's syrup containing 100 mg of carbocysteine per 5 ml of solution, you can treat children over 2 years of age. It is also suitable for therapy of adult patients. The recommended single dose for a child of any age is 5 ml, but babies under 5 years of age should take this dose 2 times a day, and older children - 3 times a day.

Syrup with a concentration of 250 mg carbocysteine per 5 ml is allowed to be used from 15 years of age. The single dose for adults is 15 ml (750 mg carbocysteine). It should be taken 3 times during the day.

Syrups have a pleasant taste and odor, so they can be taken undiluted, if desired, drinking a small amount of water. Doctors do not recommend taking the medicine with meals. It is better to do it an hour before a meal or a couple of hours after it.

The duration of treatment with the drug is determined by the doctor individually. If the drug is used without prescription, it should be remembered that drugs based on ambroxol, acetylcysteine, bromhexine, carbocysteine and other mucolytics can be used for no more than 5-10 days. The possibility and necessity of their further use should be agreed with a specialist.

Contraindications to use. Hypersensitivity to the components in the composition of the drug is only one of the contraindications to it. Syrups "Fluditek" are not recommended for patients with exacerbation of gastric and duodenal ulcers, glomerulonephritis, running in acute or chronic form (any relapses), inflammation of the bladder. If the above diseases are in remission, you will still need to be careful not to provoke an exacerbation.

It is extremely undesirable to take the drug in the first 3 months of pregnancy, and in subsequent periods it is worth being careful not to use the drug without a doctor's prescription (especially the adult version of the syrup).

Children's and adult syrup have their own lower limits of acceptable use (2 and 15 years of age), which must not be violated.

Syrups contain sucrose, which is something to keep in mind for patients with diabetes.

Side effects. It should be said that side effects from taking the drug do not develop very often. Usually patients may complain of abdominal pain, nausea, stool disturbance, dyspeptic phenomena. The nervous system may react with dizziness and weakness. Allergic and anaphylactic reactions to the drug are extremely rare.

In case of drug overdose, symptoms of digestive system disorders appear, requiring symptomatic treatment.

Interaction with other drugs . The use of syrups "Fluditec" in the systemic therapy of pathologies of the bronchopulmonary system should be carried out taking into account that this drug can enhance the effect of other drugs (antibiotics, corticosteroids, bronchodilator theophylline). In combination with glucocorticosteroids, mutual enhancement of therapeutic effects is observed.

The efficacy of carbocysteine is badly affected by atropine-like drugs.

Storage conditions. Both children's and adult versions of the drug is recommended to khnanit at room temperatures below 25 degrees C. The shelf life of syrups is 2 years.

Dr. MOM

A line of preparations, which can be used to effectively provide a complex effect on the symptoms of colds and flu. To combat cough - a universal symptom of these and other diseases of the bronchopulmonary system, syrup, which can be used to treat the whole family, including children over 3 years old, and lozenges for adults "Doctor MOM" are designed.

Pharmacodynamics. Drugs "Doctor MOM" are made on a plant basis. This is a multi-component means, created taking into account the interaction of herbs, which enhances and prolongs the therapeutic effect. In the syrup we find extracts of: basil, licorice, turmeric, ginger, justice, nightshade, elecampane, cubeba pepper, terminalia, aloe, mint (menthol). Different syrup components:

• have the ability to reduce inflammation of bronchopulmonary tissues,
• have a devastating effect on pathogens,
• contribute to the reduction of high body temperature,
• relieve pain,
• increase bronchial secretion and dilate the bronchial lumen,
• regulate the viscosity of sputum and facilitate its elimination,
• repair the affected tissues, etc.

Pastilles with different flavors contain 4 active components: ginger, licorice, emblica, menthol. Emblica is a good anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and expectorant with antiviral and antifungal activity.

Syrup and lozenges "Doctor MOM" are considered universal remedies for wet and dry cough, the pharmacokinetics of which has not been studied because it is impossible to separately trace possible reactions inherent in each component of the complex remedy.

How to use and dosage: Syrup, intended for the whole family, should be dosed according to the age of the patient. The effective dose for a child under 6 years of age is 2.5 ml, for children 6-14 years of age it can be increased to 5 ml. Adult patients are recommended to give 5 ml of the solution at a time, but on the doctor's recommendation, this dosage can be doubled (up to 10 ml).

Doctors recommend taking the drug three times a day after the main meals.

Pastilles for adults are a form intended for chewing. The interval between taking the drug should be 2 hours. The single dose is 1 lozenge (not more than 10 lozenges during the day).

Treatment is given for 3 to 5 days and if the patient's condition does not improve, other options are considered. The total course of treatment may vary from 5 to 21 days.

Overdose of the drug is possible only with prolonged use. Swelling may occur, blood pressure may increase and pain behind the sternum on the left side may occur. Such symptoms are not dangerous and are treated symptomatically.

Contraindications to use. Despite the fact that the syrup "Dr. MOM" is a plant-based preparation, which many consider safer than synthetic drugs, it has a rather impressive list of contraindications. These include, in addition to hypersensitivity to the constituents of the drug (one or more, active or auxiliary), include:

• hypertension (persistently high blood pressure),
• liver and kidney disease,
• biliary stone disease, violation of the patency of bile ducts, their inflammation (cholangitis),
• diseases of the large intestine of inflammatory nature, including hemorrhoids, chronic diarrhea, etc.
• intestinal permeability disorders of various genesis,

The drug is not recommended for children with a tendency to seizures and spasms and acute inflammation of the larynx (croup), as well as patients with diabetes mellitus, a high degree of obesity, bronchial asthma, those who follow a low-calorie diet or have hereditary diseases associated with impaired metabolism of sugars.

Syrup should not be given to children under 3 years of age to avoid respiratory dysfunction, and lozenges with attractive and varied flavors are not used in pediatrics at all, so they should be kept away from children.

In pregnancy and during breastfeeding neither syrup nor lozenges "Doctor MOM" is not recommended due to the presence of licorice and the possibility of allergic reactions.

Side effects. Usually, first of all, the digestive system reacts to the drug. Symptoms from its side are nausea, rare stools, heartburn, abdominal bloating and discomfort in the epigastrium, pain caused by spasms in the stomach and intestines. Swelling, increased BP and discomfort in the heart area may occur. Some people have allergic reactions (may occur both immediately and after a while), rashes and itching on the skin, rarely - angioedema. There were complaints of dry mouth mucous membranes, dizziness.

Interaction with other drugs. Syrup and lozenges "Doctor MOM" are well combined with antibacterial agents, increasing the effectiveness of treatment of infectious diseases of the respiratory system.

Caution should be observed in patients taking cardiac glycosides and antiarrhythmic drugs. Their simultaneous use with the described syrup may lead to a decrease in the potassium content in the body and edema. Simultaneous use of corticosteroids, diuretics and constipation remedies may also provoke water-salt balance disorder.

There are reports that syrup "Doctor MOM" in interaction with anticoagulants and antithrombotic agents increases the risk of bleeding.

Storage conditions. Pastilles "Doctor MOM" do not require special storage conditions. They are effective for 5 years from the date of release.

Syrup with the same name has a shelf life of 3 years, it is not afraid of rising temperatures up to 30 degrees, but the contents of the opened bottle can be used only for 4 weeks, after which the drug is considered unusable.

Mucaltin

A drug whose name speaks for itself. This is a popular mucolytic, which was treated by our parents. However, the usual tablets containing 50 mg of the active ingredient (althea root extract) were later supplemented with 2 more forms: tablets of increased dosage (forte 100 mg and forte with vitamin C) and syrup.

Pharmacodynamics : Liquefaction of sputum accumulating in the bronchi during inflammation is not the only positive effect of the herbal preparation. It not only changes the properties of sputum, but also contributes to its effective excretion, stimulating the production of secretion by bronchial glands, has an anti-inflammatory effect, soothes cough, envelops the bronchial mucosa, thereby reducing irritation. The drug is characterized by some anti-cough effect. It does not stop coughing attacks, but makes them less frequent and not so intense.

Vitamin C in the tablets Forte has antipyretic and immunostimulant effect, improves the vitality of tissues of organs involved in gas exchange (respiration) and blood circulation.

This expectorant is intended to treat productive coughs with difficult expectoration of sputum.

Method of administration and dosage. Tablets "Mukaltin 50" and "Mukaltin Forte 100 mg" are not recommended to crush, they should be swallowed whole and drink a neutral liquid. Tablets "Mukaltin 100 with vitamin C" is a preparation for resorption, which does not need to be drunk.

Both forms of the drug are intended for the treatment of adolescents and adult patients. Until 12 years of age, taking Forte tablets is not recommended (although sometimes for children over 3 years old, the doctor can prescribe this medicine for 1 tablet three times a day). Conventional tablets are actively used in pediatrics, starting from the age of one year.

Doctors recommend taking the tablets 3-4 times during the day before meals. The daily dose is 100 mg (1 tablet Forte or two tablets with a dosage of 50 mg).

Ordinary tablets "Mukaltin" can be given to children over 1 year old, calculating the dose based on the age of the child. The single dose recommended for children under 12 years of age is 50 mg (1 tablet). Up to 3 years of age, such a dose should be given to the baby three times a day, after 3 years - 4 times during the day.

If the tablets are given to a child who cannot swallow them, they should be dissolved in 70 ml of warm water. A sweetener or fruit syrup can be added to improve the taste.

"Mukaltin Forte" can be given to patients over 3 years of age 1 tablet 3-4 times a day (as prescribed by a doctor). The same dosage should be adhered to if treatment is carried out with the drug "Mukaltin Forte with vitamin C".

The adult dose is 100 mg of mukaltin 4 times a day for a course of 5-7 days.

Syrup "Mukaltin" is intended for the treatment of patients whose age is more than 2 years. Recommended doses depend on the age of the patient. Babies under 6 years of age should be given 5 ml of the solution, children 6-14 years - 10 ml, older patients - 15 ml. The frequency of use is stipulated with the doctor, as it can vary from 4 to 6 times a day. Syrup, like tablets, should be taken before meals.

There is no information about overdose with the drug. It is only known that nausea may occur with prolonged use.

Contraindications to the use of tablets and syrup "Mukaltin" are limited to hypersensitivity to the components of the dosage form. In tablets enriched with ascorbic acid, contraindications are slightly more. These include thrombosis, diabetes mellitus, pheniketonuria, kidney disorders, hereditary disorders of sugar digestibility, age under 3 years.

Syrup contains sugar, so it is not recommended for patients with diabetes and carbohydrate metabolism disorders.

Studies of the effect of "Mukaltin" on the fetus and pregnancy have not been conducted, so the drug in this period, as well as during breastfeeding can be used only with the permission of a doctor.

Side effects. Usually mukaltin tablets do not cause the appearance of negative reactions. In some patients, allergic manifestations are possible.

The use of tablets with vitamin C may be accompanied by headaches, GI disorders, the appearance of a feeling of fever, allergic and anaphylactic reactions, which also occur rarely.

Consumption of syrup may increase salivation and cause symptoms associated with irritation of the gastric mucosa.

The appearance of any of the above symptoms is a reason to reconsider the prescription.

Interaction with other drugs is considered in relation to tablets "Mukaltin Forte with vitamin C". Using them together with sulfonamides can achieve a reduction in the toxicity of the latter. Tablets with ascorbic acid improve the absorption of antibiotics of penicillin and tetracycline series. The drug improves the absorption of iron.

But it is characterized by negative reactions. "Mukaltin Forte" reduces the specific effect of heparin and indirect anticoagulants. Using it together with salicylates increases the risk of kidney stones. The combination of ascorbic acid and deferoxamine increases iron toxicity to muscle, including myocardium (the interval should be at least 2 hours).

Administration of high doses of the drug simultaneously with tricyclic antidepressants and neuroleptics reduces the effectiveness of the latter and may affect the excretion of drugs by the kidneys.

Storage conditions. Tablets and syrup "Mukaltin" are recommended to be stored under normal conditions. Tablets retain their effectiveness for 4 years, syrup - for 3 years. After opening the syrup bottle, it should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 2 weeks.

Linkas

Incomplete analog of the "Doctor Mom" line. The cough series includes 2 forms of the drug: syrup and flavored lozenges with a rich herbal composition. Syrup contains components found in the composition of drugs line "Dr. Mom" and the drug "Mukaltin": extracts of pepper, licorice, althea. But it is not limited to this. The solution includes unique components: extracts of adhatoda, violet, hyssop, alpinia, cordia, ziziphus, onosma - plants, the names of which many readers will recognize for the first time.

The lozenges contain only 6 of the above-mentioned plants: adhatoda, licorice, long pepper, violet, hyssop, alpinia. Both lozenges and syrup contain sweeteners, which is an obstacle to their use by people with impaired carbohydrate metabolism.

Pharmacodynamics. "Lincas belongs to the category of expectorants that promote liquefaction and easier excretion of sputum. It increases the productivity of cough and reduces the number of painful attacks, reduces the edema of bronchial tissues (stops inflammation).

Method of application and dosage. Rich herbal composition of the syrup, according to the manufacturer, does not have a negative effect on children's bodies, does not provoke respiratory distress and bronchial obstruction in young children, so it is allowed to use it from six months of age.

Babies up to 3 years old liquid sweet medicine can be given in the amount of 2.5 ml per reception, children 3-8 years old should take 5 ml of the drug at a multiplicity of intake of means 3 times during the day.

Children over 8 years old should take a dose of 5 ml 4 times a day, and the recommended single dose for adult patients will be 10 ml (30-40 ml per day).

Pastilles with the name "Linkas ENT", as in the case of pastilles "Doctor MOM", are a medicine for adults. They should be taken 1 piece at intervals of 2-3 hours (no more than 8 lozenges per day).

The course of treatment with the drug usually does not exceed 7 days, unless the doctor extends the therapy for a few days.

Contraindications to use. Any form of the drug is not suitable for the treatment of children under 6 months of age. Lozenges are not used in pediatrics.

Do not prescribe the drug in case of hypersensitivity to its active or auxiliary substances, diabetes mellitus, disorders of sugar metabolism. Caution should be observed in patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system, severe liver and kidney pathologies, severe obesity, potassium deficiency.

Use during pregnancy. The presence of licorice in the composition of both forms of the drug is an obstacle to the use of drugs during pregnancy. The plant has estrogen-like action and can provoke early termination of pregnancy. Breastfeeding while taking syrup or lozenges is also undesirable.

Side effects. "Linkas" is one of those drugs that are characterized by good tolerability and rare occurrence of side effects. Occasionally there are complaints of allergic reactions, which usually occur in a mild form, but it is still a signal to stop taking the drug.

Storage conditions. Any form of the drug "Linkas" can be stored for 3 years in room conditions without access to sunlight. But after expiration date the drug should not be used.

Eucabal

Plant components we find and in the composition of the drug "Eucabal". Syrup with this name is a combination of 2 natural active substances: plantain extract and thyme. In the composition of the balm, used externally and for inhalation, we find essential oils of pine and eucalyptus.

Both forms of the drug have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, increase the productivity of cough, facilitate the excretion of sputum accumulated in the bronchial tree. The drug belongs to the remedies for wet cough.

Method of application and dosage. Syrup should be taken undiluted, preferably after meals. The minimum age of patients - 1 year.

Babies under 5 years of age should be given the syrup at 5 ml twice a day, children 6-12 years old can be prescribed the drug at 15 ml twice a day or 10 ml 3-5 times a day. Patients whose age is more than 12 years, use the syrup 15-30 ml 3 to 5 times a day.

The course of treatment is long, averaging 2-3 weeks.

Balm "Eucabal" is allowed to use for the treatment of infants from 2 months of age. Up to 2 years of age, babies can be given therapeutic rubs and add the ointment to bath water.

For rubbing the balm is used 2-3 times during the day, using a strip of product squeezed from the tube with a length of 3 to 5 cm. Children under 2 years of age use half the amount of ointment, which is applied to the skin of the chest and back between the shoulder blades.

For baths with a volume of 20 liters take a strip of balsam with a length of 8 to 10 cm. The water temperature is between 36-37 degrees, the duration of the procedure - 10 minutes. In the bath for children over 2 years of age, add the amount of balsam contained in a 20 cm strip.

Baths should not be taken every day, but at intervals of 1-2 days.

Steam inhalation with balsam "Eucabal" is allowed from the age of 5 years. They are the same as rubs, carried out 2-3 times a day. In the water for inhalations (1 liter), you need to add a strip of 4-6 cm in length. At the same time, in the treatment of children under 12 years of age, it is necessary to adhere to the lower limit of the norm.

Contraindications to use. Syrup and balm are not used in hypersensitivity to their composition. Syrup contains sugar, so it is not recommended for patients with diabetes, those who have a severe form of obesity or disorders of carbohydrate metabolism. It is not indicated for reflux esophagitis and reflux disease, high stomach acidity and related inflammatory process called gastritis, gastric ulcer and duodenal ulcer, liver and kidney disease with impaired functionality.

Balsam is not used in bronchial asthma, whooping cough, pseudocroup, predisposition to spasms and convulsions, hypersensitivity of the respiratory tract associated with diseases of the larynx, vocal cords, etc. The ointment is not applied to damaged skin.

Side effects. During the syrup may be noted disorders of the GI tract in the form of nausea, stool disorders, etc. Both syrup and balm can cause allergic reactions. Inhalation treatment and rubs, during which there is inhalation of active substances, may be accompanied by bronchial spasm (more often in small children). True, the appearance of side effects can also be associated with an overdose of syrup, which requires symptomatic treatment and withdrawal of the drug.

Storage conditions. Both syrup and balsam "Eucabal" do not require the creation of special conditions for storage. They perfectly retain therapeutic power for 3 years.

Bromhexine

A synthetic drug based on the plant component vasocin. Previously, only tablets with this name could be found on sale, today on the shelves of pharmacies we also find a solution (drops) and syrup "Bromhexine".

Pharmacodynamics: This is a typical remedy for wet cough with a pronounced expectorant effect, which increases bronchial secretion, reduces the viscosity of sputum, stimulates rhythmic movements of the bronchial epithelium, promoting the movement of sputum towards the pharynx. The drug does not have a noticeable toxic effect, does not inhibit the activity of the nervous system, does not affect blood circulation.

Pharmacokinetics: After entering the gastrointestinal tract, it is almost completely absorbed in it. The active substance does not accumulate in the body even with prolonged use. Its metabolites are excreted with urine.

Bromhexine has the ability to penetrate the placental barrier and into the mother's milk, which pregnant women and nursing moms need to remember if they are inclined to self-medicate.

Method of administration and dosage. Tablets "Bromhexine" are authorized for use from the age of 6 years. Dosages for the treatment of such patients can be found in the manufacturer's instructions. For younger children, it is better to use a syrup (mixture) or drops in the form of inhalations, the possibility of treatment with tablets and their respective dosages should be discussed with the attending physician (often children 2-6 years old are prescribed the drug in a halved dosage: ½ tablet 3 times a day).

For children under 14 years of age, doctors recommend giving tablets 3 to 1 piece, older patients - 1-2 tablets per reception. The frequency of administration in all cases is 3 times a day, although in some cases the doctor may insist on 4 times a day.

The tablets should be taken after meals, with water or other neutral liquid. The course of treatment is usually limited to 4-5 days, although it can be prolonged. Further administration of the drug is possible only on the recommendation of a specialist.

Syrup is recommended for the treatment of children over 2 years of age and adults. The use of the medicine for young children is not prohibited, but should be carried out under the supervision of a pediatrician.

Babies under 6 years of age should take 5 ml of syrup containing 4 mg of active ingredient per such volume. Children 6-14 years of age are recommended a single dose of 10 ml, older patients can take from 10 to 20 ml at a time. The recommended frequency of administration is 3 times during the day.

Take the syrup after meals, drinking enough water.

In patients with severe hepatic and renal pathologies with impairment of their functions, dose adjustment towards reduction is necessary.

Solution (drops) "Bromhexine", which contain 6 mg of active ingredient per 5 ml, orally can be used to treat patients over 12 years of age. The drug is taken 3 times a day. The single dose for adolescents 12-14 years of age is 5 ml (23 drops), older patients can take 5-10 ml (23-46 drops) at a time.

For inhalation in nebulizers use a solution diluted with purified or distilled water in equal proportions. Before use, it is heated to a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius. The amount of solution used (and accordingly the dosage) depends on the age of the patient. For babies up to 2 years old, 5 drops are enough, from 2 to 6 years - 10 drops.

For inhalation in children 6-10 years old take 1 ml of solution, for children 10-14 years old - 2 ml, for patients older - 4 ml.

It is recommended to carry out the procedure 2 times a day, preferably after taking a bronchodilator, which will facilitate the excretion of sputum.

Overdose of the drug is unlikely and not dangerous, although it can cause unpleasant sensations: nausea, heaviness in the epigastrium, stool disorders, as well as headaches and dizziness, increased respiration, impaired coordination of movements and balance, double vision. But such symptoms in babies do not cause even doses many times higher than the norm (up to 40 mg of bromhexine).

If necessary, gastric lavage and symptomatic therapy is performed.

Contraindications to use. Means for oral administration can not be taken in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the selected dosage form. They can provoke deterioration of the condition of patients with gastric and duodenal ulcers.

Bromhexine is a strong mucolytic, so it is not used if the disease is characterized by the release of large amounts of liquid sputum.

Caution should be observed in the treatment of patients with bronchial asthma and bronchial obstruction (especially inhalation treatment). Here, bronchodilators and bronchodilators must be included in the composition of complex therapy.

Drops with more than 40% alcohol and essential oils in their composition are not recommended for the treatment of children due to the negative effect on the nervous system and the risk of allergic (anaphylactic) reactions.

Sugar syrup should be taken with caution by patients with diabetes mellitus. In disorders of sugar metabolism this form is not recommended.

It should be said that the drug is not prohibited to use during pregnancy, but the specialist should assess the possible risks to the mother and fetus. Particular caution should be observed in the 1st trimester of pregnancy, when the vital systems of the child are being formed. The use of drops containing alcohol during this period is highly undesirable.

Treatment with "Bromhexin" for nursing moms is possible in case of temporary transfer of the baby to other food sources, because the active substance is able to penetrate into breast milk.

Side effects. Usually "Bromhexine" in different forms is well tolerated, but some patients may have unpleasant sensations from the digestive system (abdominal pain, nausea, abdominal bloating, heartburn, often indicating exacerbation of chronic gastric diseases). There are also complaints of widespread compressive headaches, fever, dizziness, hyperhidrosis. Sometimes there is an increase in coughing, respiratory disorders, bronchial spasm (more often during inhalation), allergic and in some cases anaphylactic reactions.

Interaction with other drugs. Bromhexine is used for cough caused by both diseases of the bronchopulmonary system and cardiovascular pathologies together with bronchodilators (bronchodilators) and antibacterial drugs. Joint use with antibiotics can increase the concentration of the latter in sputum, which contributes to a more effective fight against the infectious factor.

Caution should be exercised when combining bromhexidine preparations and NSAIDs, which also have an irritating effect on the gastric mucosa.

Storage conditions. The drug "Bromhexidine" in any form of release can be stored under normal conditions (preferably, the ambient temperature should not rise above 25 degrees Celsius). At the same time, it is important to take into account the difference in the shelf life of the drugs. So, tablets can be stored for 5 years, syrup - only 2 years, and drops retain their qualities for 5 years. But when you open the bottle with a solution or mixture, their shelf life is noticeably reduced: syrup in room conditions retains its properties for a month, drops - for six months.

Ascoril

A combination drug in which the action of bromhexine is supported by two or three more topical components. The drug is produced in the form of tablets and syrup. Syrup has a reduced concentration of bromhexine, so it can be used in the treatment of small patients.

Compared to "Bromhexin", this drug has a stronger effect, so it is recommended to use it only if sputum accumulates quite a lot, but the cough remains unproductive due to its increased viscosity, as well as to transfer a dry cough into a productive wet cough. Use of the drug in case of increased bronchial secretion may provoke bronchospasm with impaired respiratory function.

Pharmacodynamics. We have already talked about the effect that bromhexine has on the bronchial secretion. The second active substance of the syrup and tablets is salbutamol. This substance helps to relax the muscles of the bronchi and reduce their sensitivity to irritants, promotes the transportation of bronchial secretion into the upper respiratory tract. The third active component - guaifenesin - a stimulant of bronchial secretion of plant origin. By increasing the amount of secretion produced, it reduces the viscosity of sputum.

In the composition of the syrup we also find such a component as menthol, to some extent, also contributing to the expansion of the bronchi, stimulating the production of secretion and having some antiseptic effect.

Pharmacokinetics: All components of "Ascoril" are well absorbed in the GI tract and spread with blood throughout the body, including the respiratory system. Excretion of the drug's components and its metabolites formed in the liver are mainly handled by the kidneys, so in case of malfunctions in the work of these organs, it is necessary to observe precautions: reduce the dosage or the frequency of drug administration.

Method of administration and dosage. Tablets are allowed for use from 6 years of age. Patients under 12 years of age can be offered 0.5-1 tablet per intake, the dose for adults - 1 tablet. The frequency of application is 3 times during the day.

"Ascoril" in the form of syrup is allowed for use in children, but it is not recommended to give it to children under a year old. The frequency of syrup administration is the same as for tablets. Dosages depend on the age of the patient. Children under 12 years of age are recommended to give 5 ml, older patients - 10 ml at a time.

The medication is taken regardless of food intake. Tablets should be washed down with water, syrup can be taken pure.

The duration of treatment is usually less than a week, but if necessary, the course of taking the drug can be extended (doctor's consultation is required).

Overdose. Abuse of doctor's recommendations and taking increased doses may lead to symptoms of overdose: hyperexcitability, impaired consciousness, weak but frequent breathing, trembling in the hands. Possible: pain behind the sternum on the left side, increased pulse rate, heart rhythm disturbance, drop in blood pressure, complaints of nausea, seizures, etc.

In the first minutes after drug administration gastric lavage is recommended, afterwards symptomatic therapy and cardiac monitoring are limited.

Contraindications to use. The drug is not recommended in hypersensitivity to at least one of the components of the selected form of the drug. It can not be used in severe cardiac pathologies, especially those with heart rhythm disturbances, thyrotoxicosis (thyroid hyperfunction), severe liver and kidney disease, glaucoma. The drug is not recommended in pregnancy and lactation.

Caution should be exercised when prescribing "Ascoril" wet cough remedies for patients with a tendency to seizures, diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, cardiac disorders, non-acute erosive-ulcerous lesions of the GI tract, bronchial asthma. Patients with acute gastric and duodenal ulcer may develop bleeding.

Side effects. Undesirable effects associated with the administration of "Ascoril" are considered a rare phenomenon. Still, complaints of discomfort in the epigastrium, nausea, headaches and dizziness, nocturnal insomnia and earlier awakening, drowsiness during the day, the appearance of cramps, trembling in the hands are possible. Patients may notice a marked decrease in blood pressure, increase in heart rate, muscle pain, in some cases - bronchospasm and allergic reactions, including Quincke's edema.

Interaction with other drugs. The likelihood of side effects increases with the combined use of "Ascoril" and beta-adrenomimetics or theophylline. It is not recommended to combine the drug with non-selective beta-adrenoreceptor inhibitors (especially in bronchial asthma), MAO inhibitors. "Ascoril" can slightly increase the blood content of digoxin.

The risk of hypokalemia (potassium deficiency affecting the heart) increases if you take corticosteroids or diuretics together with "Ascoril".

It is undesirable to combine the drug with tricyclic antidepressants, adrenaline, agents containing codeine and ethanol.

The drug is not combined with alkaline solutions, which reduce its effectiveness. Caution should be observed if the patient requires anesthesia.

Storage conditions. Tablets and syrup "Ascoril" can be stored at home for two years. Open syrup is desirable to use within a month.

We have looked at medicines that have expectorant action. These drugs facilitate the expectoration of sputum, and even if they slightly reduce the frequency of coughing, they do not completely stop it. In wet cough, the retention of sputum in the bronchi is a factor that provokes all sorts of complications.

Such drugs with expectorant action should not be taken simultaneously with cough suppressants that inhibit the function of the cough center in the brain. Such treatment only hinders recovery. With a painful productive cough, you can give preference to such drugs that slightly reduce the number and intensity of acts of coughing, and cough suppressants make sense to take when there is little or no sputum (dry cough), provided that there is no active infection in the body.

Remedies for severe wet cough

When it comes to cough accompanied by increased production of tracheobronchial secretion, doctors immediately suspect an acute infection. In heart disease, ingress of foreign substances into the respiratory tract and some other circumstances, if sputum is released, then in small quantities. In infection, the inflammatory process itself is a stimulator of mucus production, plus epithelial cells are irritated by bacterial secretions, which also increases the production of mucus.

A large amount of sputum is not a bad thing, because the more sputum there is, the more the airways are cleared. In this case, it is important to monitor the nature of the discharge. If they are transparent or whitish mucous, there is nothing to worry about. But cloudy discharge, change in color (yellowish or greenish cloudy sputum - a sign of purulent inflammation), the appearance of blood streaks - these are already alarming symptoms that require more serious treatment than fighting a cough.

The above symptoms may indicate a developing bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis or lung abscess. And here you need not symptomatic therapy, but complex treatment with the use of strong antibiotics and other serious drugs, compliance with bed rest, diet, etc.

But the fact is that such serious diseases rarely occur on their own. Much more often they are seen as a complication of less deeply localized respiratory diseases that do not seem serious enough. Wrong irresponsible approach to the treatment of "trifling" diseases leads to the spread of infection in deeper parts of the respiratory system. And here it is very important to prevent congestion in the first place.

Wet cough remedies help to avoid severe complications of infectious diseases by optimizing the process of clearing the respiratory tract of mucus and pathogens. This prevents microbes from multiplying and penetrating deeper, moving towards the lungs.

How and what medicines can help with a wet cough? Medicines intended for the treatment of productive cough should facilitate the expectoration of sputum. This can be done by increasing the peristalsis (active contractile movements) of the bronchi, increasing the production of bronchial secretion and reducing its viscosity.

These requirements are met by 2 types of drugs: mucolytics and expectorants. The first contribute to the liquefaction of sputum, practically without affecting its production. This is possible due to the destruction of disulfide bonds between sulfur atoms in the polysaccharides that make up the bronchial secretion.

Expectorants also increase the moisture and reduce the viscosity of sputum, but in a different way. Reflex action drugs have an irritating effect on gastric receptors, which in turn stimulates the secretion of salivary and bronchial glands. Direct-acting expectorants react with the components of sputum, changing its chemical and physical properties, because of which they are often categorized as mucolytic (secretolytic) drugs.

Both of these and other drugs that have expectorant action, concomitantly stimulate contraction of the muscular walls of the bronchi, which promotes the removal of mucus and infectious agent from the respiratory tract.

The indications for the use of mucolytics and expectorants state that these drugs are used in bronchial and pulmonary diseases with impaired production of mucous secretion and difficulty in expelling sputum from the respiratory system. These drugs can be prescribed both for dry coughs (for example, at the beginning of the disease) and for wet coughs, if the discharge of bronchial contents is difficult due to altered mucus characteristics or insufficient mucus production.

Remedies for a strong wet cough, indicating an acute infection, doctors prescribe together with antibacterial drugs. The appearance and intensification of symptoms of the disease after the incubation period indicates that the body itself can not cope with the active pathogen, and to rely in this case only on expectorants is more than irresponsible. After all, not all active microbes are removed with coughing, which means that the remaining ones can continue to multiply, capturing more and more territories inside the respiratory system.

If there are no problems with expectoration of sputum, antibiotics can help with a wet cough even without the use of additional agents that thin the sputum and help it move toward the upper respiratory tract.

An important point is the need for professional prescribing of medications. Self-treatment with antibiotics is even more dangerous than self-selection of expectorants without taking into account the nature of the cough. Even if these drugs do not bring tangible harm to health, in the future they can complicate the treatment of infection due to the developing resistance (resistance) of microorganisms to the active ingredient of the antibiotic used (this problem, however, and arose against the background of uncontrolled use of antibacterial agents of systemic action). This is especially dangerous in the case of recurrent infection with an unchanging pathogen that is constantly in the patient's body.

List of books and studies related to the study of medicines for wet and dry coughs

1. "Cough: Causes, Mechanisms and Therapy" - by Peter V. Dicpinigaitis (Year: 2003)
2. "Chronic Cough: A Comprehensive Review" - by Richard S. Irwin, Mahmood F. Bhutta (Year: 2014)
3. "Cough and Other Respiratory Reflexes" - by S. N. Andreev (Year: 2014)
4. "Mechanisms and Management of Dry Cough: From Bench to Bedside" - by Giovanni Fontana, Paolo Tarsia (Year: 2016)
5. "Management of Cough" - by Alyn H. Morice (Year: 2014)
6. "Cough: Current Perspectives on Diagnosis and Treatment" - by Bradley A. Undem (Year: 2019)
7. "Antitussive Drugs: From Preclinical Research to Clinical Application" - by Kian Fan Chung, Alyn H. Morice (Year: 2003)
8. "Pharmacotherapy Principles and Practice" - by Marie A. Chisholm-Burns, Terry L. Schwinghammer, Barbara G. Wells (Year: 2015)
9. "Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics" - by Gerard A. McKay (Year: 2013)
10. "Pharmacotherapy Handbook" - by Barbara G. Wells, Joseph T. DiPiro, Terry L. Schwinghammer, Cecily V. DiPiro (Year: 2021)

Literature

Belousov, Y. B. Clinical pharmacology : national guide / edited by Y. B. Belousov, V. G. Kukes, V. K. Lepakhin, V. I. Petrov - Moscow : GEOTAR-Media, 2014.