Mucinex expectorant side effects. Mucinex Expectorant: Understanding Side Effects, Usage, and Safety for Adults and Children
What are the common side effects of Mucinex expectorant. How does Mucinex work to relieve chest congestion. Is Mucinex safe for children to use. What precautions should be taken when using Mucinex.
What is Mucinex and How Does it Work?
Mucinex is a popular over-the-counter medication used to treat chest congestion and cough. Its active ingredient, guaifenesin, is an expectorant that works by breaking up mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and expel. This action helps relieve chest congestion and associated symptoms.
Why is mucus removal important? When mucus accumulates in the airways, it can create an environment where bacteria thrive, potentially leading to infections. By facilitating mucus expulsion, Mucinex not only provides symptom relief but may also help prevent bacterial growth.
Common Side Effects of Mucinex
While Mucinex is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects. These typically fall into three categories:
Digestive System Effects
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Nervous System Effects
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Drowsiness
Skin-Related Effects
- Rash
- Hives
It’s important to note that most people do not experience side effects when using Mucinex as directed. However, being aware of potential side effects can help users make informed decisions about their health.
Mucinex Products and Formulations
Mucinex offers a range of products containing guaifenesin, available in various forms:
- Liquid
- Tablets
- Granules
Some Mucinex products also contain dextromethorphan (DM), which helps suppress cough. Popular Mucinex formulations include:
- Children’s Cough Mini-Melts
- Children’s FreeFrom Cough & Mucus
- DM Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Maximum Strength Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max Chest Congestion
Safety Considerations for Children
Can children safely use Mucinex? The answer depends on the child’s age and the specific Mucinex product. Here are some key points to consider:
- Mucinex tablets are approved for use in individuals 12 years and older
- Liquid Mucinex and Mucinex Mini-Melts can be used by children as young as 4 years old
- For children under 4, consult a pediatrician for appropriate cough treatment options
Side effects of Mucinex in children are generally similar to those experienced by adults. However, it’s crucial to follow age-appropriate dosing instructions and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Preventing and Managing Side Effects
While side effects from Mucinex are typically mild, there are steps you can take to minimize discomfort:
- Take Mucinex with food or milk to reduce stomach upset
- Stay hydrated to help thin mucus and ease expulsion
- Use only as directed and do not exceed recommended dosages
- Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if side effects persist or worsen
Are there ways to reduce the risk of experiencing side effects? Following the recommended dosage and using Mucinex only for its intended purpose can help minimize the likelihood of adverse reactions.
Potential Risks of Overuse or Misuse
While Mucinex is generally safe when used as directed, overuse or misuse can lead to more severe side effects. These may include:
- Intense dizziness
- Severe headaches
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Kidney stones (in rare cases)
To avoid these risks, it’s essential to adhere to the recommended dosage and duration of use. If symptoms persist or worsen despite using Mucinex, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While Mucinex can effectively relieve chest congestion and cough, there are situations where professional medical advice is warranted:
- If you have a persistent cough or are unsure of its cause
- Before using Mucinex if you have other medical conditions or take other medications
- If you experience severe or prolonged side effects
- If symptoms do not improve after using Mucinex as directed
Healthcare providers can offer guidance on appropriate use, potential drug interactions, and alternative treatments if Mucinex is not suitable for your specific situation.
Understanding Guaifenesin: The Active Ingredient in Mucinex
Guaifenesin, the active ingredient in Mucinex, is currently the only expectorant approved by the FDA for over-the-counter use. But how does it work to relieve chest congestion?
Guaifenesin functions by:
- Increasing the volume and reducing the viscosity of respiratory tract secretions
- Promoting the flow of less viscous secretions through the respiratory tract
- Facilitating the removal of mucus from the airways
This mechanism of action helps to clear congestion and make breathing easier. The efficacy of guaifenesin has been demonstrated in numerous clinical studies, supporting its widespread use in cough and cold medications.
Comparing Mucinex to Other Cough and Cold Remedies
How does Mucinex stack up against other over-the-counter cough and cold medications? While many products aim to relieve cold symptoms, Mucinex’s focus on mucus relief sets it apart. Here’s a comparison:
Medication Type | Primary Action | Best For |
---|---|---|
Mucinex (Expectorant) | Breaks up mucus | Chest congestion, productive cough |
Cough Suppressants | Reduce cough reflex | Dry, irritating coughs |
Decongestants | Shrink swollen nasal passages | Nasal congestion, sinus pressure |
Antihistamines | Block histamine response | Allergy symptoms, runny nose |
When choosing a cough and cold remedy, consider your specific symptoms and consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist if you’re unsure which product is most appropriate for your needs.
Tips for Maximizing Mucinex Effectiveness
To get the most benefit from Mucinex, consider the following tips:
- Stay well-hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help thin mucus, making it easier to expel.
- Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help loosen congestion.
- Take as directed: Follow the dosing instructions carefully for optimal results.
- Be patient: It may take some time for the full effects of Mucinex to be noticeable.
- Combine with other remedies: Using Mucinex alongside other congestion-relief methods, such as steam inhalation or saline nasal rinses, may enhance its effectiveness.
Remember, while Mucinex can provide significant relief, it’s not a cure-all. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Long-term Use and Safety Considerations
Is it safe to use Mucinex for extended periods? While Mucinex is generally safe for short-term use, long-term or chronic use should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Prolonged use of expectorants may mask underlying conditions that require different treatment approaches.
Consider these points regarding long-term use:
- Mucinex is intended for short-term symptom relief, typically 7-14 days
- Chronic cough or congestion may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical evaluation
- Overuse of any medication can lead to unwanted side effects or reduced effectiveness over time
- If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive assessment
By using Mucinex responsibly and being attentive to your body’s response, you can effectively manage chest congestion while minimizing potential risks.
11 to Know, for Children, and More
Mucinex can cause mild to moderate side effects in some people. This can include digestive symptoms, dizziness, and drowsiness.
If mucus sits in your airways, bacteria can collect and grow there as well. That bacteria can lead to infection.
If you need help breaking up the mucus in your chest, you might consider a type of medication known as an expectorant.
Expectorants are used to treat chest congestion and cough. They help relieve chest congestion by breaking up mucus that’s stuck in your airways so you can cough it up.
The drug guaifenesin is currently the only expectorant that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for over-the-counter (OTC) use. It’s found in many popular products, including Mucinex.
Guaifenesin is safe and well-tolerated. It’s quite possible that you can take it or Mucinex and have no side effects. In fact, most people do not. Still, they can cause side effects in some people.
There are multiple versions of Mucinex.
The products that contain guaifenesin are available as a liquid, a tablet, or granules. Products with DM in their names also include small amounts of the ingredient dextromethorphan, which helps suppress cough.
Mucinex products with guaifenesin as their main active ingredient are:
- Children’s Cough Mini-Melts – Orange Creme Flavor
- Children’s FreeFrom Cough & Mucus
- Children’s Multi-Symptom Cold – Very Berry Flavor
- DM Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Maximum Strength DM Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Maximum Strength Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max Chest Congestion Honey & Berry Flavor
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max DM MAX
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max DM MAX Honey & Berry Flavor
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max Severe Congestion & Cough
Most other versions of Mucinex also contain guaifenesin but have acetaminophen as their main active ingredient.
The side effects that people can experience with Mucinex are usually mild to moderate. Some of the common side effects typically affect three different systems of the body.
The digestive system
Mucinex may cause the following digestive issues:
- stomach pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
The nervous system
Mucinex may also cause:
- dizziness
- headache
- drowsiness
The integumentary system (skin)
Mucinex can sometimes lead to a rash or hives.
Generally, if you use guaifenesin or Mucinex as directed, you should not have serious side effects. However, overuse or misuse can cause problems.
Taking a dosage that’s too high may increase your risk of:
- dizziness
- headache
- severe gastrointestinal issues
- kidney stones
Only people who are at least 12 years old should take Mucinex tablets. The FDA has not approved them for use in children younger than that.
However, children as young as 4 years old can use liquid Mucinex or Mucinex Mini-Melts. Mini-Melts are granules that you sprinkle on the tongue. These products are specifically marked for children on the packaging.
If your child is younger than 4 years old, speak with their doctor about the best way to treat their cough. Side effects of Mucinex in children are generally the same as they are in adults.
Overall, if you use Mucinex as directed, you probably will not have side effects. If you do have any, they’re usually mild.
There are some things you can do to help ease any bothersome side effects. For example, if Mucinex upsets your stomach, try taking it with food or a glass of milk.
Only use Mucinex for cough and chest congestion from mucus buildup. If you have another type of cough or are unsure what’s causing your cough, speak with a doctor before using Mucinex.
Also, check with a doctor before using Mucinex if you take other medications or have other medical conditions. They can help you avoid potentially harmful drug interactions.
11 to Know, for Children, and More
Mucinex can cause mild to moderate side effects in some people. This can include digestive symptoms, dizziness, and drowsiness.
If mucus sits in your airways, bacteria can collect and grow there as well. That bacteria can lead to infection.
If you need help breaking up the mucus in your chest, you might consider a type of medication known as an expectorant.
Expectorants are used to treat chest congestion and cough. They help relieve chest congestion by breaking up mucus that’s stuck in your airways so you can cough it up.
The drug guaifenesin is currently the only expectorant that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for over-the-counter (OTC) use. It’s found in many popular products, including Mucinex.
Guaifenesin is safe and well-tolerated. It’s quite possible that you can take it or Mucinex and have no side effects. In fact, most people do not. Still, they can cause side effects in some people.
There are multiple versions of Mucinex.
The products that contain guaifenesin are available as a liquid, a tablet, or granules. Products with DM in their names also include small amounts of the ingredient dextromethorphan, which helps suppress cough.
Mucinex products with guaifenesin as their main active ingredient are:
- Children’s Cough Mini-Melts – Orange Creme Flavor
- Children’s FreeFrom Cough & Mucus
- Children’s Multi-Symptom Cold – Very Berry Flavor
- DM Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Maximum Strength DM Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Maximum Strength Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max Chest Congestion Honey & Berry Flavor
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max DM MAX
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max DM MAX Honey & Berry Flavor
- Maximum Strength Fast-Max Severe Congestion & Cough
Most other versions of Mucinex also contain guaifenesin but have acetaminophen as their main active ingredient.
The side effects that people can experience with Mucinex are usually mild to moderate. Some of the common side effects typically affect three different systems of the body.
The digestive system
Mucinex may cause the following digestive issues:
- stomach pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
The nervous system
Mucinex may also cause:
- dizziness
- headache
- drowsiness
The integumentary system (skin)
Mucinex can sometimes lead to a rash or hives.
Generally, if you use guaifenesin or Mucinex as directed, you should not have serious side effects. However, overuse or misuse can cause problems.
Taking a dosage that’s too high may increase your risk of:
- dizziness
- headache
- severe gastrointestinal issues
- kidney stones
Only people who are at least 12 years old should take Mucinex tablets. The FDA has not approved them for use in children younger than that.
However, children as young as 4 years old can use liquid Mucinex or Mucinex Mini-Melts. Mini-Melts are granules that you sprinkle on the tongue. These products are specifically marked for children on the packaging.
If your child is younger than 4 years old, speak with their doctor about the best way to treat their cough. Side effects of Mucinex in children are generally the same as they are in adults.
Overall, if you use Mucinex as directed, you probably will not have side effects. If you do have any, they’re usually mild.
There are some things you can do to help ease any bothersome side effects. For example, if Mucinex upsets your stomach, try taking it with food or a glass of milk.
Only use Mucinex for cough and chest congestion from mucus buildup. If you have another type of cough or are unsure what’s causing your cough, speak with a doctor before using Mucinex.
Also, check with a doctor before using Mucinex if you take other medications or have other medical conditions. They can help you avoid potentially harmful drug interactions.
Mukoneks – instructions for use, doses, side effects, reviews of the drug:
Liquefies sputum, increases its volume, facilitates sputum separation. The action is associated with the ability of free sulfhydryl groups of acetylcysteine to break intra- and intermolecular disulfide bonds of sputum acid mucopolysaccharides, which leads to depolymerization of mucoproteins and a decrease in sputum viscosity (in some cases this leads to a significant increase in sputum volume, which requires aspiration of bronchial contents). Retains activity in purulent sputum. Does not affect immunity. Increases the secretion of less viscous sialomucins by goblet cells, reduces the adhesion of bacteria to the epithelial cells of the bronchial mucosa. Stimulates the mucous cells of the bronchi, the secret of which lyses fibrin. It has a similar effect on the secret formed during inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs. It has an antioxidant effect due to the presence of the SH-group, which is able to neutralize electrophilic oxidizing factors. Protects alpha 1 – antitrypsin (elastase inhibitor) from the inactivating effect of HOCl-oxidant produced by active phagocytes myeloperoxidase. It also has some anti-inflammatory action (due to the suppression of the formation of free radicals and active oxygen-containing substances responsible for the development of inflammation in the lung tissue).
Contraindicated in pregnancy. At the time of treatment should stop breastfeeding.
Nausea, vomiting, stomach fullness,
nosebleeds, urticaria, tinnitus, drowsiness, fever. Rarely – dyspepsia (including heartburn). With aerosol therapy: reflex cough,
irritation of the respiratory tract, rhinorrhea; rarely – stomatitis. With i / m administration – burning at the injection site; with long-term treatment – impaired liver and / or kidney function.
When treating patients with diabetes, it is necessary
note that the granulate contains sucrose. When working with the drug
it is necessary to use glassware, avoid contact with metals,
rubber, oxygen, easily oxidizing substances. In patients with broncho-obstructive syndrome, it must be combined with bronchodilators.
Form:
Granules for oral solution
inside, granules for syrup, granules for suspension
for oral administration, solution for intravenous administration, solution for
intramuscular injection and topical application, solution
for
Pharmacological action:
Mucolytic agent, thins sputum,
increases its volume, facilitates the separation of sputum. action associated with
the ability of free sulfhydryl groups of acetylcysteine to break intra- and
intermolecular disulfide bonds of sputum acid mucopolysaccharides, which
leads to depolymerization of mucoproteins and a decrease in sputum viscosity (in a number
cases, this leads to a significant increase in sputum volume, which requires
aspiration of bronchial contents). Retains activity in purulent sputum. Not
affects the immune system. Increases the secretion of less viscous sialomucins
goblet cells, reduces bacterial adhesion to epithelial cells
bronchial mucosa. Stimulates the mucous cells of the bronchi, the secret of which
lyses fibrin. It has a similar effect on the secret formed during
inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Has an antioxidant effect
due to the presence of an SH group capable of neutralizing electrophilic
oxidative toxins. Protects alpha1-antitrypsin (an elastase inhibitor) from
inactivating effect of HOCl, an oxidizing agent produced by myeloperoxidase
active phagocytes. It also has some anti-inflammatory action (for
by suppressing the formation of free radicals and active oxygen-containing
substances responsible for the development of inflammation in the lung
fabrics).
Indications:
Violation of sputum discharge: bronchitis, tracheitis,
bronchiolitis, pneumonia, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, lung abscess,
emphysema, laryngotracheitis, bronchial asthma, lung atelectasis
(due to blockage of the bronchi by a mucous plug). Catarrhal and purulent otitis,
sinusitis, sinusitis (facilitation of secretion discharge). Removal of viscous secretion from
respiratory tract in post-traumatic and postoperative conditions.
Preparation for bronchoscopy, bronchography, aspiration drainage. For
washing abscesses, nasal passages, maxillary sinuses, middle ear; processing
fistulas, surgical field during operations on the nasal cavity and mastoid
process.
Contraindications:
Hypersensitivity, pregnancy, period
lactation. With caution. Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum (in
acute phase), varicose veins of the esophagus, hemoptysis, pulmonary
bleeding, phenylketonuria (for forms containing aspartame), bronchial asthma
(with intravenous administration, the risk of developing bronchospasm), diseases of the adrenal glands,
hepatic and / or renal failure, arterial
hypertension.
Side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, stomach fullness,
nosebleeds, urticaria, tinnitus, drowsiness, fever. Rarely –
dyspepsia (including heartburn). With aerosol therapy: reflex cough,
irritation of the respiratory tract, rhinorrhea; rarely – stomatitis. With the / m introduction –
burning at the injection site; with long-term treatment – impaired liver function and / or
kidneys.
Dosage and administration:
Inside. Adults – 200 mg 2-3 times a day
in the form of granules, tablets or capsules. Children 2-6 years old – 200 mg 2 times a day
or 100 mg 3 times a day as a water-soluble granulate; under 2 years – 100
mg 2 times a day; 6-14 years – 200 mg 2 times a day. For chronic diseases
within a few weeks: adults – 400-600 mg / day in 1-2 doses; children 2-14
years – 100 mg 3 times a day; with cystic fibrosis – children from 10 days to 2 years – 50
mg 3 times a day, 2-6 years – 100 mg 4 times a day, over 6 years – 200 mg 3 times
per day in the form of a water-soluble granulate, effervescent tablet or capsule.
Inhalation. For aerosol therapy in ultrasound devices, 20 ml of a 10% solution is sprayed
or 2-5 ml of a 20% solution, in devices with a distribution valve – 6 ml of 10%
solution. Duration of inhalation – 15-20 minutes; multiplicity – 2-4 times a day.
In the treatment of acute conditions, the average duration of therapy is 5-10 days; at
long-term therapy of chronic conditions, the course of treatment is up to 6 months. When
strong secretolytic action, the secret is sucked off, and the frequency of inhalations and
reduce the daily dose. Intratracheal. For washing the bronchial tree
for therapeutic bronchoscopy, a 5-10% solution is used. locally. Buried in
external auditory canal and nasal passages 150-300 mg (for 1 procedure).
Parenterally. Administered in / in (preferably drip or slow jet – in
for 5 minutes) or in / m. Adults – 300 mg 1-2 times a day. Children from 6 to 14
years – 150 mg 1-2 times a day. Preferred for children under 6
oral administration, children under the age of 1 year in / in the introduction of acetylcysteine
possible only for health reasons in a hospital setting. In that case
if there are still indications for parenteral therapy, daytime
the dose for children under 6 years of age should be 10 mg/kg body weight. For
in / in the introduction of the solution is further diluted 0.9% NaCl solution or 5%
dextrose solution in a ratio of 1:1. The duration of therapy is determined
individually (no more than 10 days). In patients over 65 years of age, use
minimum effective dose.
Special instructions:
note that the granulate contains sucrose. When working with the drug
it is necessary to use glassware, avoid contact with metals,
rubber, oxygen, easily oxidizing substances. With a shallow intramuscular injection
drug and in the presence of hypersensitivity, a slight and
a quickly passing burning sensation, and therefore it is recommended to inject the drug deep into
muscle. In patients with broncho-obstructive syndrome, it is necessary to combine with
bronchodilators.
Description of the drug Muconex is not intended for prescription treatment without
physician participation.
Mukoneks – instructions for use, doses, side effects, reviews of the drug:
Liquefies sputum, increases its volume, facilitates sputum separation. The action is associated with the ability of free sulfhydryl groups of acetylcysteine to break intra- and intermolecular disulfide bonds of sputum acid mucopolysaccharides, which leads to depolymerization of mucoproteins and a decrease in sputum viscosity (in some cases this leads to a significant increase in sputum volume, which requires aspiration of bronchial contents). Retains activity in purulent sputum. Does not affect immunity. Increases the secretion of less viscous sialomucins by goblet cells, reduces the adhesion of bacteria to the epithelial cells of the bronchial mucosa. Stimulates the mucous cells of the bronchi, the secret of which lyses fibrin. It has a similar effect on the secret formed during inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs. It has an antioxidant effect due to the presence of the SH-group, which is able to neutralize electrophilic oxidizing factors. Protects alpha 1 – antitrypsin (elastase inhibitor) from the inactivating effect of HOCl-oxidant produced by active phagocytes myeloperoxidase. It also has some anti-inflammatory action (due to the suppression of the formation of free radicals and active oxygen-containing substances responsible for the development of inflammation in the lung tissue).
Contraindicated in pregnancy. At the time of treatment should stop breastfeeding.
Nausea, vomiting, stomach fullness,
nosebleeds, urticaria, tinnitus, drowsiness, fever. Rarely – dyspepsia (including heartburn). With aerosol therapy: reflex cough,
irritation of the respiratory tract, rhinorrhea; rarely – stomatitis. With i / m administration – burning at the injection site; with long-term treatment – impaired liver and / or kidney function.
When treating patients with diabetes, it is necessary
note that the granulate contains sucrose. When working with the drug
it is necessary to use glassware, avoid contact with metals,
rubber, oxygen, easily oxidizing substances. In patients with broncho-obstructive syndrome, it must be combined with bronchodilators.
Form:
Granules for oral solution
inside, granules for syrup, granules for suspension
for oral administration, solution for intravenous administration, solution for
intramuscular injection and topical application, solution
for
Pharmacological action:
Mucolytic agent, thins sputum,
increases its volume, facilitates the separation of sputum. action associated with
the ability of free sulfhydryl groups of acetylcysteine to break intra- and
intermolecular disulfide bonds of sputum acid mucopolysaccharides, which
leads to depolymerization of mucoproteins and a decrease in sputum viscosity (in a number
cases, this leads to a significant increase in sputum volume, which requires
aspiration of bronchial contents). Retains activity in purulent sputum. Not
affects the immune system. Increases the secretion of less viscous sialomucins
goblet cells, reduces bacterial adhesion to epithelial cells
bronchial mucosa. Stimulates the mucous cells of the bronchi, the secret of which
lyses fibrin. It has a similar effect on the secret formed during
inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Has an antioxidant effect
due to the presence of an SH group capable of neutralizing electrophilic
oxidative toxins. Protects alpha1-antitrypsin (an elastase inhibitor) from
inactivating effect of HOCl, an oxidizing agent produced by myeloperoxidase
active phagocytes. It also has some anti-inflammatory action (for
by suppressing the formation of free radicals and active oxygen-containing
substances responsible for the development of inflammation in the lung
fabrics).
Indications:
Violation of sputum discharge: bronchitis, tracheitis,
bronchiolitis, pneumonia, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, lung abscess,
emphysema, laryngotracheitis, bronchial asthma, lung atelectasis
(due to blockage of the bronchi by a mucous plug). Catarrhal and purulent otitis,
sinusitis, sinusitis (facilitation of secretion discharge). Removal of viscous secretion from
respiratory tract in post-traumatic and postoperative conditions.
Preparation for bronchoscopy, bronchography, aspiration drainage. For
washing abscesses, nasal passages, maxillary sinuses, middle ear; processing
fistulas, surgical field during operations on the nasal cavity and mastoid
process.
Contraindications:
Hypersensitivity, pregnancy, period
lactation. With caution. Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum (in
acute phase), varicose veins of the esophagus, hemoptysis, pulmonary
bleeding, phenylketonuria (for forms containing aspartame), bronchial asthma
(with intravenous administration, the risk of developing bronchospasm), diseases of the adrenal glands,
hepatic and / or renal failure, arterial
hypertension.
Side effects:
Nausea, vomiting, stomach fullness,
nosebleeds, urticaria, tinnitus, drowsiness, fever. Rarely –
dyspepsia (including heartburn). With aerosol therapy: reflex cough,
irritation of the respiratory tract, rhinorrhea; rarely – stomatitis. With the / m introduction –
burning at the injection site; with long-term treatment – impaired liver function and / or
kidneys.
Dosage and administration:
Inside. Adults – 200 mg 2-3 times a day
in the form of granules, tablets or capsules. Children 2-6 years old – 200 mg 2 times a day
or 100 mg 3 times a day as a water-soluble granulate; under 2 years – 100
mg 2 times a day; 6-14 years – 200 mg 2 times a day. For chronic diseases
within a few weeks: adults – 400-600 mg / day in 1-2 doses; children 2-14
years – 100 mg 3 times a day; with cystic fibrosis – children from 10 days to 2 years – 50
mg 3 times a day, 2-6 years – 100 mg 4 times a day, over 6 years – 200 mg 3 times
per day in the form of a water-soluble granulate, effervescent tablet or capsule.
Inhalation. For aerosol therapy in ultrasound devices, 20 ml of a 10% solution is sprayed
or 2-5 ml of a 20% solution, in devices with a distribution valve – 6 ml of 10%
solution. Duration of inhalation – 15-20 minutes; multiplicity – 2-4 times a day.
In the treatment of acute conditions, the average duration of therapy is 5-10 days; at
long-term therapy of chronic conditions, the course of treatment is up to 6 months. When
strong secretolytic action, the secret is sucked off, and the frequency of inhalations and
reduce the daily dose. Intratracheal. For washing the bronchial tree
for therapeutic bronchoscopy, a 5-10% solution is used. locally. Buried in
external auditory canal and nasal passages 150-300 mg (for 1 procedure).
Parenterally. Administered in / in (preferably drip or slow jet – in
for 5 minutes) or in / m. Adults – 300 mg 1-2 times a day. Children from 6 to 14
years – 150 mg 1-2 times a day. Preferred for children under 6
oral administration, children under the age of 1 year in / in the introduction of acetylcysteine
possible only for health reasons in a hospital setting. In that case
if there are still indications for parenteral therapy, daytime
the dose for children under 6 years of age should be 10 mg/kg body weight. For
in / in the introduction of the solution is further diluted 0.9% NaCl solution or 5%
dextrose solution in a ratio of 1:1. The duration of therapy is determined
individually (no more than 10 days).