Bromhexine Elixir Syp 120ml

BROMHEXINE ELIXIR SYP 120ML by IPCA LABORATORIES LTD

Bromhexine Elixir is a mucolytic medication designed to alleviate respiratory conditions characterized by excessive or thick mucus secretion. It works by thinning and loosening phlegm, making it easier to cough out and facilitating clearer airways.

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Bromhexine Hydrochloride (4 mg/5 mL)

Uses

Bromhexine Elixir is primarily used for the "secretolytic therapy in bronchopulmonary diseases associated with abnormal mucus secretion and impaired mucus transport". It is prescribed for:

• Cough associated with mucus, including chesty coughs.
• Respiratory tract disorders involving increased mucus secretion, such as bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, common cold, influenza, and sinusitis.

Dosage and Administration

• Shake the bottle well before use.
• Bromhexine Elixir can be taken with or without food, as advised by your doctor. Some sources suggest taking it with food for better results and to minimize gastric irritation.
• Measure the prescribed dose accurately using a measuring cup or dropper.
• Adults and Children over 12 years: Typical dosage is 8-16 mg (2-4 teaspoonfuls of 4mg/5ml syrup) three times daily.
• Children 6-12 years: Typically 4 mg (5 mL of 4mg/5ml syrup) three times daily.
• Children 2-6 years: Typically 2.5 mL three times daily.
• Consult a doctor for dosage for children under 2 years of age.
• Do not use for more than 14 days without a doctor's consultation.

Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and usually resolve over time. Consult your doctor if they persist or worsen.

• Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, headache, dizziness, stomach upset, diarrhoea, skin rash, sweating, indigestion, bloatedness, fatigue, dry mouth, irritation of the ear.
• Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical advice): Allergic reactions such as severe skin rashes, itchiness, swelling of the face, eyes, lips or tongue, difficulty in breathing, or fever.

Precautions

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to bromhexine or any other ingredients in the elixir.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Use with caution and inform your doctor if you have a history of:
  • Gastric ulcers or other gastrointestinal disorders.
  • Liver or kidney diseases.
  • Lung conditions such as severe uncontrolled asthma or chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD).
  • Low immune system.
  • Persistent or chronic cough (e.g., due to smoking).
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is advisable to inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using this medicine.
• Driving and Machinery: Bromhexine Elixir may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how you react to the medication.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, especially antibiotics, as bromhexine may increase their absorption.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids while taking Bromhexine Elixir to help loosen mucus.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Keep Bromhexine Elixir out of the sight and reach of children.
• Store at controlled room temperature, typically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.
• Protect from light and moisture.
• Ensure to use the product before its expiry date. For syrup, some sources recommend discarding the bottle 6 months after opening or on the expiry date, whichever is sooner.

Here are frequently asked questions about Bromhexine Elixir Syrup 120ml by IPCA LABORATORIES LTD:

What is Bromhexine Elixir used for?

Bromhexine Elixir is a mucolytic medication primarily used to thin and loosen thick mucus or phlegm in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear chest congestion. It is commonly prescribed for productive cough associated with various respiratory conditions such as the common cold, flu, bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sinusitis, and pneumonia.

How does Bromhexine Elixir work?

Bromhexine works by a secretolytic action, which means it helps break down the structure of thick mucus. It does this by increasing lysosomal activity and disrupting mucopolysaccharide fibers in the sputum, making the mucus less viscous and sticky. Additionally, it has secretomotoric effects, stimulating the production of thinner, more watery mucus and enhancing the activity of the cilia (tiny hair-like structures in the airways) to help move the thinned mucus out of the respiratory tract more effectively.

What is the usual dosage for Bromhexine Elixir?

The dosage of Bromhexine Elixir varies depending on age and the specific formulation (concentration of Bromhexine, e.g., 4mg/5ml). It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions or the directions on the label carefully.

• Adults and children over 12 years: Typically 8mg, which might be 5-10 mL of syrup (depending on concentration), three times daily. Under medical supervision, the dose may be increased to 12mg four times daily.
• Children 6-12 years: Usually 5mL (if 4mg/5ml concentration) three times daily.
• Children 2-6 years: Often 2.5mL (if 4mg/5ml concentration) three times daily. For children under 6 years, and especially under 2 years, use should be under strict medical supervision. Always shake the bottle well before use and use a special measuring device to ensure accuracy. It can be taken with or without food.

What are the possible side effects of Bromhexine Elixir?

Common side effects can include digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, upper abdominal pain, diarrhea, and dry mouth. Other frequently reported side effects are headache, dizziness, sweating, and skin reactions like rash or itching. In rare cases, severe skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, or allergic reactions (swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing, or widespread itchy skin rashes) can occur and require immediate medical attention. Some individuals may also experience drowsiness.

Is Bromhexine Elixir safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: The safety of bromhexine during pregnancy is not fully established. While some sources indicate no proven increase in malformations, it is generally advised to use it with caution and only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is often not recommended in the first trimester. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Breastfeeding: It is unknown whether bromhexine is excreted in breast milk or if it can harm a breastfeeding infant. Therefore, it is generally advised to avoid using it while breastfeeding or to do so with caution and only if considered essential by your doctor after weighing the benefits and risks.

Can Bromhexine Elixir be taken with other medications?

Bromhexine can enhance the penetration of certain antibiotics (such as amoxicillin, erythromycin, and cefuroxime) into bronchial secretions, which can be beneficial in treating respiratory infections. However, it is not recommended to take Bromhexine Elixir with cough suppressants (e.g., codeine, dextromethorphan) as this can lead to mucus accumulation in the airways due to an impaired cough reflex. You should always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using Bromhexine Elixir?

Exercise caution if you have a history of peptic ulcers or gastric ulceration, as bromhexine can potentially damage the gastric mucosal barrier. Patients with asthma should also be cautious, as some sensitive individuals may experience bronchospasm. If you have kidney or liver disease, dose adjustments and close monitoring may be necessary due to reduced drug clearance. Additionally, individuals who cannot effectively cough should use this medicine with caution, as there is a risk of mucus accumulation. It's also important to drink plenty of fluids to help the medicine work effectively by thinning mucus. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage, and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen after one week. Since it may cause dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of Bromhexine Elixir is missed?

If you miss a dose of Bromhexine Elixir, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects. If you are taking the medicine only when required for symptoms, you do not need to take a missed dose if you no longer have symptoms.

How should Bromhexine Elixir be stored?

Bromhexine Elixir should be stored in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Keep the container tightly closed and protect it from moisture and humidity. It is best to store it in its original packaging. Keep this medication out of the reach of children. For syrups, it is generally recommended to discard the bottle 6 months after opening, or if it has expired, whichever comes sooner.