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Expectorant action of bromhexine in chronic obstructive bronchitis
British Medical Journal
|August 1, 1970
Summary
Bromhexine significantly improved sputum volume and reduced viscosity in patients with bronchitis. However, it did not improve respiratory function or overall patient condition, with no observed side-effects.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Bronchitis is characterized by excessive mucus production.
- Mucoid sputum can impair respiratory function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of bromhexine in patients with bronchitic mucoid sputum.
- To assess the impact of bromhexine on sputum characteristics and respiratory status.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted.
- 16 mg of oral bromhexine was administered thrice daily for 11 days.
Main Results:
- Bromhexine significantly increased sputum volume and decreased sputum viscosity.
- Rheological characteristics of sputum were markedly altered.
- No significant improvement was observed in ventilatory capacity or overall respiratory state.
Conclusions:
- Bromhexine effectively modifies sputum properties in bronchitic patients.
- It does not appear to improve lung function or clinical respiratory status.
- The drug was well-tolerated with no reported side-effects.
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