Drug Study: Ambroxol Name of Drug Brand Names: Mucosolva n and Mucoangin Generic Name: Ambroxol Hydrochlori de Manufactur

er: Boehringer -Ingelheim Action and Properties Mucolytic; Ambroxol is used for infections of the upper respiratory tract. It clears airways and eases cough. Properties: Ambroxol is used for infections of the upper respiratory tract. It clears airways and eases cough. Preclinically, ambroxol, the active ingredient of MUCOSOLVAN, has been shown to increase respiratory tract secretion. It enhances pulmonary surfactant production and stimulates ciliary activity. These actions result in improved mucus flow and transport (mucociliary clearance). Improvement of mucociliary clearance has been shown in clinical pharmacologic stud ies. Enhancement of fluid secretion and mucociliary clearance facilitates expectoration and eases cough. Secretolytic therapy in acute and chronic bronchopulmo nary diseases associated with abnormal mucus secretion and impaired mucus transport. Indications Dosage and Administration Adults : 1 prolonged action capsule once daily, either in the morning or evening after a meal The capsules should not be opened or chewed, but swallowed whole with ample liquid. The "carrier tablets" which are occasionally present in the stools have released the active substance during their passage through the digestive system and are therefore without significance. MUCOSOLVAN prolonged action capsules are not suitable for children under 12 years. Contra indications MUCOSOLVA N should not be used in patients known to be hypersensitiv e to ambroxol or other components of the formulation. Side Effects MUCOSOLVAN is generally well tolerated. Mild upper gastrointestinal side effects (primarily pyrosis, dyspepsia, and occasionally nausea, vomiting) have been reported, principally following parenteral administration. Allergic reactions have occurred rarely, primarily skin rashes. There have been extremely rare case reports of severe acute anaphylactic-type reactions but their relationship to ambroxol is uncertain. Some of these patients have also shown allergic reactions to other substances. Nursing Consideration Assessment & Drug Effects Monitor for S&S of aspiration of excesssecretions, and forbronchospasm(unp redictable);withhold drug and notify physician immediately if eitheroccur. Lab tests: Monitor ABGs, pulmonary functions and pulse oximetry as indicated. Have suction apparatus immediately available. Increased volume of respiratory tract fluid may be liberated; suction orendotracheal aspiration may be necessary to establisha nd maintain an open airway. Patient & Family Education Report difficulty with clearing the airway or any other respiratory distress