Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Erdosteine is a mucolytic drug used in the treatment of acute and chronic respiratory diseases. It also improves the symptoms associated with short episodes of chronic bronchitis.
Erdosteine is a prodrug that is metabolised into N-thiodiglycolyl-homocysteine whereby free thiol groups are formed leading to the opening of the disulphide bonds of the bronchial mucoproteins, thus reducing the viscosity of mucus and purulent sputum. It also antagonises the local formation of free radicals and inhibits elastase enzyme activity and bacterial adhesion to epithelial cells.
Common side effect is epigastric pain. Other side effects include headache, cold, taste alterations, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, angioedema and other skin allergic reactions.
The use of Erdosteine in pregnant or breast-feeding women is not recommended.
It should be used with caution in mild liver failure. In that case, should not exceed a dose of 300 mg per day.
Renal Impairment: CrCl <25 ml/min: Contraindicated.
Hepatic Impairment:
- Mild to moderate: Max: 300 mg daily.
- Severe: Contraindicated.
Cough expectorants & mucolytics
Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children
