Zedex

Zedex is a combined antitussive, refers to the pharmacological group of drugs used for cough and colds: ATS code - R05F A01 (opium derivatives in combination with mucolytics). Manufacturer - Wockhardt Ltd (India).

Indications of the zedex

Zedex is intended for treatment of non-productive (dry) cough in acute and chronic forms of respiratory diseases (laryngitis, tracheitis, bronchitis, etc.), as well as pneumonia, whooping cough and pulmonary tuberculosis.

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Release form

Syrup (in bottles of 100 ml with a measuring cup).

Pharmacodynamics

The therapeutic effect of Zedex is provided by its active substances: dextromethorphan, bromhexine and ammonium chloride.

Dextromethorphan (DXM in the form of hydrobromide) is an isomer of 3-methoxy-17-methyl-morphine (levomethomorphan), a synthetic narcotic analgesic. It suppresses cough by reducing the excitability of the cough center of the medulla oblongata (without affecting the respiratory center). However, the full mechanism of the action of DXM on the cough center is still unknown. According to the official instruction, hypnotic, analgesic and narcotic effects are absent when using dextromethorphan as part of antitussive drugs - in appropriate therapeutic doses.

The action of Bromhexin secretolitic, diluting mucoproteins and mucopolysaccharides of bronchial secretions with dry cough. There is also a stimulating effect of this component Zedex on the alveolar secretory cells that produce the anti-teletext factor of the respiratory tract (surfactant), which prevents the decrease in the functions of the respiratory system of the body.

Ammonium chloride has a secretory effect: the stimulation of receptors of the gastric mucous membrane caused by it is transferred to the emetic center of the medulla oblongata, which leads to an increase in the production of saliva and bronchial secretions, and also helps to reduce the viscosity of sputum and facilitates its withdrawal by increasing the reduction of bronchial tubes.

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Pharmacokinetics

All substances that make up Zedex are adsorbed into the digestive tract and enter the systemic bloodstream, binding to plasma proteins.

Dextromethorphan is absorbed very quickly in the digestive tract, and its antitussive effect is felt on average 20 minutes after Zedex administration and lasts for five hours. This substance undergoes biotransformation in the liver; almost half of the metabolites are excreted by the kidneys with urine (half-life is approximately 11 hours).

Bromhexine is almost completely absorbed and binds to plasma proteins (the maximum concentration in the blood is noted 60 minutes after admission). Metabolism by demethylation and oxidation occurs in the liver with the formation of an active metabolite of ambroxol (stimulating the formation of sputum and having an expectorant effect). Excretion of metabolites occurs through the kidneys.

Ammonium chloride entering Zedex is transformed into pulmonary tissues with the formation of active metabolites that act on the mucosa of the respiratory tract, activating the ciliary epithelium of the bronchi.

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Dosing and administration

Syrup from dry cough Zedex is taken orally: a single dose for adults is 10 ml (usually prescribed 2-3 times a day during the day). Children 4-6 years are recommended to give 2.5 ml twice a day, children 6-12 years - 2.5-3 ml three times a day. The maximum duration of application is 14 days.

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Use of the zedex during pregnancy

Contraindicated.

Contraindications

Contraindications to Zedex use include: hypersensitivity to the drug; peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum; serious violations in the liver and kidneys; increase in blood pH and all physiological fluids in the body (metabolic alkalosis); bronchial asthma; bronchial diseases with increased formation of bronchial secretions; age to 4 years (although Dextromethorphan is contraindicated up to 12 years!).

Side effects of the zedex

In the list, including Zedex's side effects, shortness of breath, hyperemia of the face, bronchospasm, lowering of blood pressure, fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, skin rashes and itching, development of angioedema, dizziness, increased drowsiness, anxiety.

Overdose

Overdose of this drug can lead to mental overexcitation and respiratory depression, accompanied by rapid breathing, dizziness, vomiting, double vision, violation of coordination of movements. In such cases it is recommended to wash the stomach.

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Interactions with other drugs

With the simultaneous use of Zedex with antidepressants that inhibit the enzyme monoamine oxidase (MAO), it is possible to develop an adrenergic crisis, collapse and coma.

The bromhexine contained in the preparation - when used concomitantly with salicylates and NSAIDs - increases the irritation of the mucous membranes. And simultaneous application with antibacterial drugs promotes their penetration into respiratory tract tissues. In addition, bromhexine is not prescribed concomitantly with drugs that contribute to the suppression of the cough center (!) - as this can worsen the expectoration of phlegm.

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Storage conditions

Zedex should be kept out of the reach of children, protected from light; Storage temperature - not higher than + 28 ° С.

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Shelf life

36 months.