Ambroxol (Mucolytic Agent)

Ambroxol is a generic drug that is known as a mucolytic. Mucolytics work by thinning phlegm and reducing mucus secretion. It is effective for productive or wet coughs.

Know the basics

What is ambroxol used for?

It is prescribed for various respiratory diseases such as emphysema with bronchitis pneumoconiosis, chronic inflammatory pulmonary conditions, tracheobronchitis (respiratory tract inflammation), bronchiectasis, bronchial asthma.

How should I take ambroxol?

Take this product by mouth with food as directed. Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens or if you develop new symptoms. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

How do I store ambroxol?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of ambroxol that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this productdown the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Know the precautions & warnings

What should I know before using ambroxol?

Before using ambroxol, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are/have:

• Allergic to this drug or any of its ingredients
• Taking prescription or nonprescription drugs, including vitamins and herbal remedies.
• Pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

Is it safe to take ambroxol during pregnancy or breast-feeding?

There are no adequate studies in women for determining risk when using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking this medication.

This medication is pregnancy risk category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

• A=No risk,
• B=No risk in some studies,
• C=There may be some risk,
• D=Positive evidence of risk,
• X=Contraindicated,
• N=Unknown.

Know the side effects

What are the side effects of ambroxol?

Side effects include:

• Mild GI effects
• Allergic reactions

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side-effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Know the interactions

What drugs may interact with ambroxol?

This drug may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Does food or alcohol interact with ambroxol?

Ambroxol may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with ambroxol?

Ambroxol may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

• Gastric ulceration

Understand the dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication.

What is the dose of Ambroxol for an adult?

Usual Adult Dose for mucolytic

30 mg three times daily or 60 mg twice daily. As extended-release capsule: 75 mg once daily.

What is the dose of Ambroxol for a child?

Usual Pediatric Dose for mucolytic

<2 years 7.5-15 mg twice daily. 

2-5 years 7.5-15 mg three times daily; 

6-12 years 15-30 mg 2-3 times daily; 

>12 years Same as adult dose.

How is ambroxol available?

Ambroxol is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

Tablet, Oral: 30 mg

Solution, Oral: 30 mg/5 mL

Injection: 15 mg/2 mL

Inhalation: 15 mg/2 mL

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of ambroxol, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.