24.3 Expectorants and Mucolytics
2 min read•june 18, 2024
and are crucial for clearing mucus from airways. Expectorants increase mucus volume, making it easier to cough up. Mucolytics break down thick mucus, improving its clearance. Both help patients breathe easier.
These meds work differently but share the goal of mucus removal. Nurses must monitor breathing, ensure , and teach proper coughing techniques. Patient education on dosage, side effects, and hydration is key for effective treatment.
Expectorants and Mucolytics
Expectorants vs mucolytics
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- Expectorants promote clearance of mucus from airways by increasing volume and hydration of , facilitating removal through coughing ()
- Mucolytics break down thick, viscous mucus by reducing viscosity and elasticity, improving clearance and (, )
Mechanisms of action and side effects
- Expectorants (guaifenesin)
- Mechanism: stimulate production of more fluid secretions in airways, increase volume of airway surface liquid, promote easier of mucus
- Side effects: , , , ,
- Mucolytics (acetylcysteine, )
- Mechanism: depolymerize mucin glycoproteins, reduce in mucus, decrease viscosity and elasticity
- Side effects: , throat irritation, cough, rash, (rare)
Nursing considerations
- Assess and lung sounds before and after administration
- Monitor for adverse reactions (nausea, vomiting, bronchospasm)
- Ensure adequate hydration to thin secretions and prevent dehydration
- Administer expectorants with full glass of water to promote mucus clearance
- Use caution when giving mucolytics to patients with asthma or sulfite sensitivity
- Evaluate effectiveness of therapy and report concerns to healthcare provider
Patient education
- Emphasize importance of staying well-hydrated while taking expectorants or mucolytics
- Instruct to take expectorants with full glass of water and avoid taking at bedtime
- Advise to report adverse reactions (persistent nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing)
- Teach proper coughing and deep breathing techniques to help clear mucus from airways
- Encourage following prescribed dosage and duration of therapy
- Remind to inform healthcare provider about other medications to avoid potential interactions
Key Terms to Review (43)
Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic agent that breaks down mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear from the respiratory tract. It is also used as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose.
Airway Clearance: Airway clearance refers to the process of removing secretions, mucus, and other obstructions from the respiratory tract to maintain proper lung function and gas exchange. This term is particularly relevant in the context of expectorants and mucolytics, which are medications designed to facilitate airway clearance.
Antidiarrheal: Antidiarrheals are medications used to alleviate or stop diarrhea by slowing down gut movement or absorbing excess fluid in the intestines. These drugs help restore normal bowel function and prevent dehydration.
Bronchiectasis: Bronchiectasis is a chronic, irreversible lung condition characterized by the abnormal and persistent widening of the airways, leading to airflow obstruction, mucus buildup, and recurrent respiratory infections. This term is particularly relevant in the context of expectorants and mucolytics, as these medications are often used to manage the symptoms and complications associated with bronchiectasis.
Bronchospasm: Bronchospasm refers to the sudden, involuntary constriction of the smooth muscles lining the bronchi and bronchioles, leading to narrowing of the airways. This phenomenon is a key feature in various respiratory conditions and can significantly impact breathing function.
Cholinergic Receptors: Cholinergic receptors are a class of receptors that respond to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh), which is involved in various physiological processes throughout the body. These receptors play a crucial role in the functioning of the parasympathetic nervous system and are relevant in the context of several pharmacological topics.
Chronic Bronchitis: Chronic bronchitis is a long-term respiratory condition characterized by persistent inflammation and excessive mucus production in the bronchial tubes, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. This chronic condition is often associated with exposure to irritants like cigarette smoke and air pollution, and can significantly impact a person's quality of life and respiratory function.
Ciliary Function: Ciliary function refers to the coordinated movement and activity of cilia, which are small, hair-like projections found on the surface of certain cells in the body. Cilia play a crucial role in the expulsion of mucus and other materials from the respiratory system, as well as in the movement of fluids and particles within the body.
Cystic fibrosis: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the respiratory and digestive systems, leading to the production of thick and sticky mucus. This condition can cause severe respiratory infections and complications.
Cystic Fibrosis: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems. It is caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene, which results in the production of abnormal proteins that disrupt the normal function of epithelial cells, leading to the accumulation of thick, sticky mucus in various organs.
Diarrhea: Diarrhea is the condition characterized by frequent, loose, and watery bowel movements. It is a common gastrointestinal symptom that can be caused by a variety of factors and can have implications across different medical disciplines, including Alzheimer's drugs, mood stabilizers, expectorants, laxatives, histamine blockers, and prostaglandin analogues.
Disulfide Bonds: Disulfide bonds are covalent chemical bonds formed between two sulfur atoms within or between protein molecules. They play a crucial role in maintaining the three-dimensional structure and stability of proteins, including those found in expectorants and mucolytics.
Dizziness: Dizziness is a term that describes a range of sensations, including feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or off-balance. It is a common symptom that can be associated with various medical conditions and can significantly impact a person's daily activities and quality of life.
Dornase alfa: Dornase alfa is an enzyme medication used to break down and thin mucus in the lungs, improving airflow and reducing respiratory infections. It is commonly prescribed for patients with cystic fibrosis.
Dornase Alfa: Dornase alfa is a recombinant human deoxyribonuclease (rhDNase) enzyme that helps break down the DNA in mucus, making it less viscous and easier to clear from the lungs. It is used as a mucolytic agent in the treatment of cystic fibrosis and other respiratory conditions characterized by the accumulation of thick, sticky mucus.
Drowsiness: Drowsiness refers to a state of sleepiness or lethargy, where an individual experiences a strong desire to sleep or a lack of alertness. This term is particularly relevant in the context of various medical conditions and pharmacological interventions that can induce or exacerbate drowsiness as a side effect.
Drug Interactions: Drug interactions occur when the effects of one drug are altered by the presence of another drug, food, or other substance in the body. These interactions can lead to changes in the drug's intended therapeutic effects, side effects, or both, potentially impacting the overall safety and efficacy of the medication regimen.
Expectorants: Expectorants are medications that help to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and expel. They are commonly used to treat symptoms of respiratory conditions like colds, bronchitis, and other upper respiratory infections.
Expectoration: Expectoration refers to the act of expelling or coughing up phlegm, mucus, or other material from the respiratory tract. It is a vital function that helps clear the airways and maintain respiratory health.
Fever: Fever is an elevation in body temperature above the normal range, typically a result of the body's immune response to infection or other inflammatory processes. It is a common symptom that can indicate the presence of an underlying health condition.
Guaifenesin: Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. It is commonly included in medications for treating respiratory conditions with thick mucus.
Headache: A headache is a pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. It is a common condition that can have a wide range of causes and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Headaches are often associated with various medical conditions and can be a symptom of underlying issues related to the topics of Alzheimer's Drugs, Nitrates, Expectorants and Mucolytics, Xanthines, Leukotriene Modifiers, and Mast Cell Stabilizers, Histamine Blockers and Proton-Pump Inhibitors, and Pepsin Inhibitors and Prostaglandin Analogues.
Headaches: Headaches are pain or discomfort in the head or face area, often categorized by their underlying cause such as tension, migraine, or cluster headaches. In pharmacology, the focus is on understanding and treating migraines, which are severe headaches often accompanied by nausea and light sensitivity.
Hydration: Hydration refers to the process of maintaining adequate fluid levels within the body to support various physiological functions. It is a crucial aspect of electrolyte balance and respiratory function, and plays a vital role in the effectiveness of certain medications.
Iodinated Glycerol: Iodinated glycerol is a synthetic compound that is used as an expectorant and mucolytic agent. It is a derivative of glycerol, with iodine atoms attached, which helps to thin and loosen mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up and expel.
Mallory-Weis tears: Mallory-Weis tears are lacerations that occur at the junction of the esophagus and stomach, often due to severe vomiting or retching. They can cause significant bleeding and require medical intervention.
Mucolytics: Mucolytics are medications designed to break down mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel. They are commonly used in conditions where thick mucus is a problem, such as chronic bronchitis or cystic fibrosis.
Mucomyst: Mucomyst, also known as acetylcysteine, is a mucolytic agent used to break down mucus in the respiratory tract. It is commonly used to treat conditions where thick mucus production is problematic.
Mucus Glycoproteins: Mucus glycoproteins are high-molecular-weight compounds found in the mucus lining of various organs, such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. They are composed of a protein backbone with carbohydrate side chains, providing the mucus with its unique viscoelastic properties that are crucial for its protective functions.
Mucus Viscosity: Mucus viscosity refers to the thickness or resistance to flow of the mucus secreted by the respiratory tract. The viscosity of mucus is an important factor in its clearance and effectiveness in protecting the lungs and airways.
Nausea: Nausea is an unpleasant sensation of discomfort in the upper stomach, often accompanied by an urge to vomit. It is a common symptom that can arise from various physiological and psychological factors, and it is particularly relevant in the context of the provided topics: Alzheimer's Drugs, Mood Stabilizers, Expectorants and Mucolytics, Xanthines, Leukotriene Modifiers, and Mast Cell Stabilizers, as well as Pepsin Inhibitors and Prostaglandin Analogues.
Pediatric dosage: Pediatric dosage is the specific amount of medication prescribed to children, taking into account their age, weight, and developmental stage. It ensures both efficacy and safety in treating various pediatric conditions.
Peptic Ulcer Disease: Peptic ulcer disease is a condition characterized by the development of sores or ulcers in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine, the duodenum. These ulcers can cause discomfort, pain, and if left untreated, potentially serious complications. Peptic ulcer disease is closely related to the topics of expectorants and mucolytics, antacids, and histamine blockers and proton-pump inhibitors, as these medications play a crucial role in managing and treating this condition.
Pulmonary Function Tests: Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are a group of non-invasive diagnostic procedures that measure the function and capacity of the lungs. These tests are particularly relevant in the context of expectorants and mucolytics, as they can help evaluate the effectiveness of these medications in improving respiratory function.
Pulmozyme: Pulmozyme is a mucolytic medication primarily used to manage cystic fibrosis by breaking down DNA in mucus, making it less viscous. It helps improve lung function and reduce the risk of respiratory infections.
Respiratory Secretions: Respiratory secretions refer to the fluids produced by the respiratory system, including the nasal, pharyngeal, and lower respiratory tract. These secretions play a crucial role in maintaining the health and function of the respiratory system.
Respiratory Status: Respiratory status refers to the overall condition and functioning of the respiratory system, which is responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body. It encompasses the ability to breathe effectively, maintain adequate oxygenation, and efficiently remove waste gases from the body.
Respiratory Tract: The respiratory tract is the anatomical passage through which air flows during breathing, consisting of the upper and lower respiratory tracts. It is responsible for the exchange of gases, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, between the body and the external environment.
Rhinorrhea: Rhinorrhea refers to the excessive, watery nasal discharge or runny nose, often associated with inflammation or irritation of the nasal mucosa. It is a common symptom that can occur in various respiratory conditions, including allergies, colds, and sinus infections.
Sputum: Sputum is the mucus-containing material that is coughed up from the respiratory tract, including the lungs, bronchi, and trachea. It is a key consideration in the context of expectorants and mucolytics, as these medications aim to alter the properties and production of sputum to aid in its clearance from the airways.
Stomatitis: Stomatitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the mouth, which can lead to painful sores or ulcers. It is a common condition that can occur in individuals of all ages and is often associated with various underlying medical conditions or irritants.
Vomiting: Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of the contents of the stomach and upper intestines through the mouth. It is a protective mechanism that helps the body eliminate harmful or unwanted substances from the digestive system. This key term is particularly relevant in the context of Alzheimer's Drugs, Expectorants and Mucolytics, and Xanthines, Leukotriene Modifiers, and Mast Cell Stabilizers, as vomiting can be a side effect or complication associated with the use of these medications.
Vomiting center (VC): The vomiting center (VC) is a neural network located in the medulla oblongata of the brainstem that coordinates the act of vomiting. It integrates signals from various sources to trigger and control emesis.