Mucolytics: What They Do, Medicines
Mucolytics are medicines that make thick, sticky mucus in the airways thinner so it is easier to cough up. They are used in some chest conditions in which mucus is hard to clear. They do not treat the underlying cause of the cough. A doctor or pharmacist should be asked about a cough that lasts more than a few weeks.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do Mucolytics work?
Mucolytics such as acetylcysteine break chemical links within the mucus, which lowers its stickiness. Thinner mucus moves more easily out of the airways when you cough.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to Mucolytics. They are listed A to Z.
- Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is a mucolytic: it thins thick, sticky mucus so that it is easier to cough up.
- Ambroxol: Ambroxol is a mucolytic: it helps thin sticky mucus in the airways so that it is easier to cough up.
Common questions
Does a mucolytic stop a cough?
No. It thins mucus so it is easier to clear; it does not treat the cause of the cough. A cough lasting more than three weeks, or one with blood, chest pain or breathing difficulty, needs a doctor's assessment.
Can mucolytics be used with cough suppressants?
Usually this is avoided, because a suppressed cough makes it harder to clear thinned mucus. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before combining them, and check the labels of cold and cough products you already use.
Can people with asthma take mucolytics?
They can sometimes trigger tightening of the airways, especially in people with asthma. People with asthma should take a mucolytic only as directed by their doctor, and should stop and get medical help if breathing worsens.
Sources
- NACSYS 600 mg Effervescent Tablets: Summary of Product Characteristics. electronic medicines compendium (emc), UK
- ATC/DDD Index: R05CB Mucolytics. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- Cough. NHS (UK)