DRUG STUDY

Medication (include
dosage, route &
frequency)
Ambroxol
0.5 TID

Drug Classification

Indication

Mucolytic
Adjuvant therapy in
patients with abnormal,
viscid, or in spissated
mucous secretions in
acute and chronic
bronchopulmonary
diseases, and in
pulmonary
complications of cystic
fibrosis and surgery,
tracheostomy, and
atelectasis.

Mechanism of
Action

Side effects/Adverse
Reactions

It makes phlegm in the

airways thinner and less
sticky. It does this by
increasing the body's
natural production of
surfactant. This
contributes to a
secretomotoric effect: it
helps the cilia - tiny
hairs that line the
respiratory tract - to
transport the phlegm out
of the lungs. Here is a
step-by-step description
of how Ambroxol
works:

Occasional
gastrointestinal side
effects may occur but
these are almost
invariably mild.

Nursing
Responsibilities

Monitor S/Sx of
aspiration of
excess secretions
and for
bronchospasm .
Monitor ABGs,
pulmonary
functions and
pulse oximetry
as indicated.
Have suction
apparatus
immediately
available.
Report difficulty
with clearing the
airway or any
other respiratory
distress.

Contraindications
and Cautions
There is no absolute
contraindication but in
patients with gastric
ulceration relative
caution should be
observed.