BLEOR-KOFF

Bromhexine is an expectorant used in the treatment of respiratory disorders associated with viscid or excessive mucus. Bromhexine is a synthetic derivative of the herbal active ingredient vasicine. It has been shown to increase the proportion of serous bronchial secretion, making it more easily expectorated. It is indicated as “secretolytic therapy in bronchopulmonary diseases associated with abnormal mucus secretion and impaired mucus transport”.

Dextromethorphan is a non-opioid antitussive drug. The major metabolite of dextromethorphan, dextrorphan, binds with high affinity to σ-receptors to produce its antitussive activity without exhibiting the classic opiate effects that occur from binding into μ- and δ-receptors. In larger than therapeutic doses, dextrorphan is also an antagonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors.

Chlorphenamine is a potent antihistamine (H₁-antagonist). Antihistamines diminish or abolish the actions of histamine in the body by competitive reversible blockade of histamine H₁-receptor sites on tissues. Chlorphenamine also has anticholinergic activity.

Guaifenesin is an expectorant the action of which promotes or facilitates the removal of secretions from the respiratory tract. The precise mechanism of action of guaifenesin is not known; however, it is thought to act as an expectorant by increasing the volume and reducing the viscosity of secretions in the trachea and bronchi. In turn, this may increase the efficiency of the cough reflex and facilitate removal of the secretions. Guaifenesin is over-the-counter drug for the treatment of cough and common cold.