Expectorants

Introduction to Expectorants:

• Expectorants are drugs that facilitate the expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract by increasing mucus production and/or reducing its viscosity.
• They are used to treat coughs and congestion associated with common colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory illnesses.

Classification of Expectorants

• Expectorants can be classified into two main categories:

  1. Direct-acting expectorants:

     • These agents act directly on the secretory cells of the respiratory tract, increasing the secretion of mucus and/or decreasing its viscosity.
     • The increased mucus production and thinning of mucus help facilitate its removal from the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up.

     • Examples:

       • Guaifenesin (glyceryl guaiacolate)
       • Iodides (e.g., potassium iodide)
       • Bromhexine

1. 2. Indirect-acting expectorants:

      • These agents work by irritating the gastric mucosa, which stimulates a reflex increase in respiratory tract secretions.
      • The increased secretions help to loosen and thin the mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up.

      • Examples:

        • Ammonium chloride
        • Potassium citrate
        • Sodium citrate

Cough and Its Types

• Cough is a reflex action that helps clear the respiratory tract of mucus, irritants, and foreign particles.
• It is a vital protective mechanism that helps keep the airways clear and maintain proper respiratory function.
• Coughs can be classified into several types based on their duration, nature, and underlying cause:

1. Acute cough:

   • Lasts less than 3 weeks.
   • Often due to viral infections or irritants.

2. Subacute cough:

   • Lasts between 3 and 8 weeks.
   • May result from lingering infections or other causes.

3. Chronic cough:

   • Lasts more than 8 weeks.
   • Caused by various underlying conditions.

4. Productive cough:

   • Produces mucus or phlegm.
   • Common in respiratory infections or conditions with increased mucus production.

5. Dry (non-productive) cough:

   • No mucus production.
   • Can be caused by viral infections, allergies, irritants, or medications.

6. Nocturnal cough:

   • Occurs predominantly at night.
   • Caused by factors like asthma, postnasal drip, or GERD.

7. Whooping cough (pertussis):

   • Severe, uncontrollable coughing caused by Bordetella pertussis infection.
   • Dangerous for infants and young children.

Visit Firsthope app for ad free notes

Thank you for reading from Firsthope's notes, don't forget to check YouTube videos!