Ambroxol Hydrochloride

Generic Details

Generic Name

Ambroxol Hydrochloride

Other Names

  • Mucosolvan
  • Mucobrox
  • Ambrolex

Drug Class

  • Expectorant
  • Mucolytic

Chemical Formula

C13H18ClNO2

Molecular Weight

254.74 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Stimulates production of pulmonary surfactant
  • Reduces the viscosity of mucus

Indications

  • Acute and chronic respiratory disorders associated with abnormal mucus secretion and impaired mucus transport
  • Bronchitis
  • Bronchial asthma
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Pneumonia
  • Sinusitis
  • Bronchiectasis

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet
  • Syrup
  • Solution for inhalation

Typical Dosage

  • 30 mg - 60 mg orally daily, in divided doses

Pediatric Dosage

  • Children 6-12 years: 15 mg twice daily
  • Children 2-6 years: 7.5 mg twice daily

Geriatric Dosage

  • Adjust dosage based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching)

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to ambroxol or any component of the formulation

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans.

Lactation Safety

  • Ambroxol excreted into breast milk. Caution advised.

Drug Interactions

  • May increase the serum concentration of antibiotics like amoxicillin

Overdose Symptoms

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Hypersalivation
  • Hypotension

Antidote for Overdose

  • Supportive care, consider activated charcoal if a significant amount has been ingested

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Widely distributed in the body, crosses the placenta
  • Metabolism: Extensively metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Mainly excreted in the urine

Precautions

  • Patients with gastric ulcers or a history of peptic ulcer disease should use with caution

Warnings

  • Should not be used for prolonged periods without medical advice

Others

  • Consult a healthcare professional before using in children <2 years old