Generic & Brand Names
Generic: Bromhexine Hydrochloride
Common Brands: Bisolvon®, Brohexin®, Solmux®
Drug Class
Mucolytic Expectorant Respiratory Agent Mechanism of Action
Bromhexine reduces the viscosity of bronchial secretions by breaking down mucopolysaccharide fibers, enhancing mucociliary clearance and facilitating expectoration.
Indications
- Productive cough with thick sputum
- Acute and chronic bronchitis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (adjunct)
- Respiratory tract infections with viscid mucus
Dosage (General)
- Adults: 8–16 mg, 2–3 times daily
- Children 6–12 years: 4–8 mg, 2–3 times daily
- Children <6 years: Use only if prescribed
Adequate hydration enhances mucolytic action.
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Rash (rare)
- Transient increase in sputum volume
Contraindications & Precautions
- Hypersensitivity to bromhexine
- Peptic ulcer disease (use with caution)
- Severe hepatic or renal impairment
Drug Interactions
- No clinically significant interactions reported
- May increase antibiotic penetration into bronchial secretions
Pregnancy & Lactation
Avoid during first trimester. Use later in pregnancy or lactation only if clearly needed.
Key Notes
- Useful for thick, sticky sputum
- Not a cough suppressant
- Often combined with bronchodilators
References
- British National Formulary (BNF). Mucolytics – Bromhexine.
- British National Formulary for Children (BNFc). Expectorants and mucolytics.
- Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 22nd ed. Elsevier; Respiratory pharmacology.
- Katzung BG, Trevor AJ. Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed. McGraw-Hill.