Mucolytic action is the ability of certain substances to thin thick and viscous sputum in the respiratory tract, facilitating its excretion from the body. Mucolytic agents are used to treat diseases accompanied by mucus accumulation in the respiratory tract, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, cystic fibrosis and other respiratory diseases.
Mucolytics work by reducing the viscosity of sputum by breaking the protein or mucopolysaccharide bonds in the mucus, making it easier to cough up. This helps to cleanse the bronchi and lungs, improve breathing and reduce the risk of complications associated with stagnant sputum.
Mucolytic drugs include drugs such as ambroxol, acetylcysteine and bromhexine. They may be available as syrups, tablets, inhalers, or inhalation solutions. Mucolytics help relieve cough symptoms and promote faster recovery from respiratory infections, but they should be used as recommended by your doctor.