Do you also feel like your throat and chest are full of mucus when you cough? Although coughing up mucus can provide some relief, sometimes this mucus is very thick, sticky, and doesn't come out easily. That's when we need to talk about 'expectorants'. These are not cough suppressants, but they help to loosen the mucus.
What actually happens with an expectorant?
Simply put, an expectorant is a medicine that helps thin out mucus (phlegm) in your respiratory tract, that is, your throat and chest, and helps you cough it up more easily. They are used for colds, flu, as well as respiratory infections like bronchitis and pneumonia.
The important thing to understand here is that an expectorant does not stop your cough . Instead, it makes your cough "productive." That is, rather than just coughing, it makes you cough up a little more mucus with each cough. In fact, coughing is a defense mechanism in our body. It helps to get rid of germs and bacteria in the respiratory tract. So, getting rid of these germs along with mucus helps to heal faster.
How does this medicine work?
Think of the mucus in your chest as thick, sticky glue. An expectorant works by adding water to this sticky mucus (hydrates it) and diluting it. This makes the mucus less sticky, and it comes out more easily when you cough. This will help you get rid of the mucus that is stuck in your chest. It will also help to flush out bacteria and viruses from your body, reducing the risk of further infection.
What types of expectorants are there?
Expectorants can be divided into two main types: medically prescribed medications and natural expectorants.
| Expectorant type | Description |
|---|---|
| Medicinal | Guaifenesin: This is the most commonly used expectorant in the world. It is found in many cough syrups in Sri Lanka. These are available in tablets, capsules, and liquids from pharmacies. Potassium Iodide: This is a prescription medication that is given only on the recommendation of a doctor. It is given to people with chronic lung diseases such as asthma and bronchitis to control excess mucus. |
| Natural | Menthol: A natural chemical found in plants in the mint family. It provides a cooling sensation to the throat and reduces pain. It is commonly found in cough syrups and sore throat lozenges. Steam Inhalation: Taking a hot bath or inhaling steam from a hot water bowl helps loosen mucus in the respiratory tract and make it easier to exhale. This is something that many people in our country do successfully. Honey: Adding a little honey to hot tea or water can loosen mucus and relieve coughs. (Important: Do not give honey to babies under one year old. It can cause a dangerous condition called botulism.) Hydration: One thing you should do with any expectorant is to drink plenty of fluids like water, orange juice, and cilantro. This will help to thin out the mucus. |
Are there any things to be careful about when taking this medicine?
Yes, definitely.
If you are taking medication for another medical condition (e.g. high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, mental illness), you should definitely talk to your doctor before using an expectorant. Some medications can increase side effects when taken together.
Also, some "all-in-one" cold medicines contain other ingredients in addition to an expectorant. For example, medicines containing phenylephrine can increase blood pressure in some people. So read the label carefully before taking a medicine. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.
What are the side effects of expectorants?
Generally, serious side effects are rare if used properly. However, some people may experience minor side effects.
Side effects of Guaifenesin (the most common type)
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Skin rash
- (If taken in large doses) Nausea and vomiting
Side effects of Potassium Iodide (the kind given by a doctor)
These may occur a little more often.
- Stomach pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Heartburn (Acid reflux)
- Diarrhea
- Skin damage
- Numbness in the limbs
- Swelling or pain in the salivary glands
- Feeling a metallic taste in the mouth
- Confusion
- Irregular heartbeat (Arrhythmia)
If you experience any unusual symptoms after taking any medication, especially difficulty breathing, hives, or facial swelling, go to the nearest hospital emergency room (ETU) immediately.
Coughing is a nuisance. But sometimes it is very important for the body to expel unnecessary mucus. Expectorants help with that. But remember, if the cough does not subside in a few days, if you have a high fever, or if you have difficulty breathing, you should definitely see a doctor for advice.
Take-Home Message
- An expectorant is not a medicine that stops a cough, it only helps to thin out thick mucus and help you cough it up.
- When using any expectorant, drink plenty of water and fluids. This will help to loosen the mucus.
- If you are taking medication for other conditions, be sure to ask your doctor before taking an expectorant.
- If the cough persists, or if you have symptoms such as high fever and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- Do not give honey to babies under one year of age for any reason.
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