CARBOCISTIENE ADULT SYRUP
CARBOCISTIENE
What it does
Carbocisteine is a medication that helps to make mucus less sticky, making it easier to cough up.
Commonly used for: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, cough associated with respiratory conditions
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:37:30 · updated 2026-10-20 04:00:08
About this medicine
Carbocisteine is a medication that helps to make mucus less sticky, making it easier to cough up.
What it treats
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- bronchitis
- cough associated with respiratory conditions
How it works
It works by thinning the mucus in the airways, which helps clear congestion and makes breathing easier.
Who it's for
It is suitable for adults and children who have breathing difficulties due to thick mucus.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: carbocistiene
Carbocisteine is a mucolytic agent that is used to reduce the viscosity of mucus, facilitating mucus clearance from the respiratory tract. It is often employed in the management of respiratory conditions characterized by excessive mucus production, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and cystic fibrosis. By breaking down the glycoprotein structure of mucus, carbocisteine helps to improve respiratory function and reduce the frequency of exacerbations in chronic respiratory diseases.
Indications
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Bronchitis
- Cystic fibrosis
- Respiratory tract infections with excessive mucus production
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Carbocisteine acts by altering the structure of mucus, reducing its viscosity and increasing its volume. This modification is primarily achieved through the depolymerization of glycoproteins in the mucus, resulting in a more fluid secretion that is easier to expel from the airways. It also has a role in enhancing mucociliary clearance, which is crucial for maintaining airway patency and lung health.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of carbocisteine are observed in its ability to facilitate mucus clearance, leading to improved respiratory function. It helps to decrease the frequency of respiratory infections by promoting better airway clearance and reducing mucus stasis, which can harbor pathogens. Additionally, carbocisteine may have anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its therapeutic effects in chronic respiratory diseases.
Pharmacokinetics
Carbocisteine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. It undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver, primarily through conjugation. The elimination half-life is approximately 2 to 3 hours, with metabolites being excreted mainly via the urine. The drug's effects can be observed relatively quickly after administration, making it suitable for symptomatic relief in acute and chronic respiratory conditions.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to carbocisteine or any of its components
- Active peptic ulcer disease
Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Rash
- Dizziness
Interactions
- May alter the effectiveness of other mucolytic agents
- Potential interaction with antitussives
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of peptic ulcer
- Monitor for allergic reactions
- Evaluate renal function prior to use
Pregnancy
Carbocisteine should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult a healthcare provider.
Breast-feeding
Carbocisteine is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral solution
- Capsules
- Granules for oral solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.