Effect of bromhexeine on sputum amoxycillin levels in lower respiratory infections

V. S. Taskar, R. R. Sharma, R. Goswami, P. J. John, A. A. Mahashur

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

Bromhexeine has been widely used as an adjunct in the management of lower respiratory infections and is usefulin altering the physical characteristics of sputum. Its effect on the sputum penetration of an antibiotic has been sparsely studied. The present study highlights the improvement in sputum amoxycillin (amoxy) levels when a combination tablet, amoxy 500 mg plus bromhexeine 8 mg, is administered as compared to plain amoxy 500 mg. Sputum amoxy levels were significantly higher in the combination group (0.674 ± 0.588 μg ml) as compared to 0.272±0.19 μg ml−1 in the amoxy group (P=0.028). The clinical responses assessed by the physician as well as the patient were significantly better in the amoxy plus bromhexeine group as compared to the amoxy group. The radiological and bacteriological responses were similar in both groups. There was no increase in the side-effects due to bromhexeine and, overall, its use can be recommended in the treatment of acute lower respiratory infections.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)157-160
Number of pages4
JournalRespiratory Medicine
Volume86
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - 1992
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine

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