Acticol

Acticol Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Acticol is a brand name. Its generic name is Ambroxol.

Introduction

Acticol is a widely used drug in the treatment of respiratory diseases and conditions. It is also used to improve mucociliary function and reduce respiratory secretions in the airways. It is available in many different forms including syrup, tablets, and injections.

Uses

Acticol is used for the treatment of diseases and conditions of the respiratory system including but not limited to: bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and bronchiectasis. It is also used to reduce respiratory secretions and improve mucociliary function.

Mechanism Of Action

Acticol has a mucolytic effect. It decreases the viscosity of secretions and increases its volume. This allows for more efficient clearance of mucous and airway secretions. It also stimulates the production of surfactant that facilitates the elimination of these secretions from the airways.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

The effects of Acticol may be seen within a few hours of administration. The full effects may take up to several days to appear.

Absorption

Acticol is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The maximum blood concentration is generally reached within 1.5-2 hours.

Route Of Elimination

Acticol is mainly eliminated through urinary excretion. Approximately 80-90% is eliminated in the urine unchanged.

Dosage

The dosage of Acticol depends on factors such as age, health condition and the form of preparation. The usual doses are as follows:
  • Adults - 60-120 mg three times per day
  • Children - 15-30 mg three times per day
  • Newborns and infants - 2.5-10 mg three times per day

Administration

Acticol is usually administered orally as an oral syrup, tablet or capsule. It can also be given as a solution for inhalation or subcutaneous injection.

Side Effects

Acticol is generally well tolerated. However, some side effects may include nausea, vomiting, headache, rash, and hives. More serious side effects include difficulty breathing, chest pain, and an allergic reaction.

Toxicity

The therapeutic index of Acticol is considered to be high, meaning it is generally considered to be safe when given in appropriate doses. However, overdoses can cause serious adverse reactions such as breathing difficulties, seizures, and coma.

Precautions

Acticol should be used cautiously in patients with kidney or liver impairment, and in those with a history of asthma or allergies. It should also be used with caution in pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Interactions

Acticol may interact with certain drugs such as anticholinergics, MAO inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants. It should not be used in combination with certain antibiotics such as erythromycin and kanamycin.

Disease Interactions

Acticol may interact with certain diseases such as respiratory disorders, kidney or liver disease, and asthma or allergies.

Drug Interaction

Acticol may interact with certain drugs such as anticholinergics, MAO inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants. It should not be used in combination with certain antibiotics such as erythromycin and kanamycin.

Food Interactions

The absorption of Acticol is not affected by the intake of food.

Pregnancy Use

Acticol should not be used by pregnant women unless the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the foetus.

Lactation Use

It is not known if Acticol is passed into breast milk, so it is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.

Acute Overdose

The symptoms of an acute overdose of Acticol may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and headache. In severe cases, seizures and coma may occur.

Contraindication

Acticol is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity or allergies to the drug. It should also not be used in patients with kidney or liver impairment, or in patients taking certain medications such as MAO inhibitors or tricyclic antidepressants.

Use Direction

Acticol should be taken as directed by the physician or health care provider. The dosage may vary depending on the condition and severity of the symptoms.

Storage Condition

Store in a cool, dry place, away from light and humidity.

Volume Of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Acticol is 1.4L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of Acticol is approximately 4 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of Acticol is approximately 0.8mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Acticol

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Acticol

What is Acticol?

Acticol is an expectorant medication that helps clear phlegm (mucus) from the airways in the lungs. It works by increasing the production of watery saliva to help thin the mucus and make it easier to cough up.

What is Acticol used for?

Acticol is used to treat a variety of respiratory conditions, including persistent cough, bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchiectasis.

Is Acticol available over the counter?

Yes, Acticol is available over the counter in tablet and liquid form at most pharmacies without a prescription.

How do you take Acticol?

Acticol is usually taken orally as a tablet or syrup. The usual dose for adults is 30mg three times daily. However, the dose may be adjusted depending on your condition and your doctor's recommendations.

Is Acticol safe?

Yes, Acticol is generally considered safe for adults when taken as directed. However, it can cause some side effects, including headaches, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Can I take Acticol while pregnant?

It is not recommended to take Acticol while pregnant, unless it is specially prescribed by your doctor. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is important to speak to a doctor before taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Acticol?

Common side effects of Acticol include headaches, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Less common side effects include rash or itching, dizziness, or skin irritations. If you experience any side effects, it is important to speak to a doctor.

Can I take Acticol with other medications?

Yes, but it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medications while taking Acticol. Some medications may interact with Acticol and should not be taken together.

Can I take Acticol with alcohol?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Acticol, as it can increase the risk of side effects. If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to speak to your doctor first.

What is a typical Acticol dosage?

The usual dose for adults is 30mg three times daily. However, the dose may be adjusted depending on your condition and your doctor's recommendations.

What factors can affect Acticol dosage?

Factors such as age, weight, kidney function, and any other existing medical conditions can affect the dosage of Acticol. It is important to speak to your doctor before starting treatment to ensure the correct dosage is prescribed for you.

What if I miss a dose of Acticol?

If you forget to take a dose of Acticol, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

What happens if I take too much Acticol?

If you take too much Acticol, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain.

Is Acticol available as a generic drug?

Yes, Acticol is available as both a brand-name and generic drug. Generic drugs are typically cheaper than brand-name drugs.

Can I buy Acticol online?

Yes, it is possible to buy Acticol online from certain pharmacies. However, it is important to check that the pharmacy is legitimate before making a purchase online.

What are the storage requirements for Acticol?

It is important to store Acticol tablets and syrup in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not store the medicine in the bathroom or kitchen, and keep it out of reach of children.

How long does Acticol take to work?

The effects of Acticol can vary from person to person, but it typically takes a few hours to start working. The full effects can be seen within 24 hours.

Should I stop taking Acticol if I feel better?

Yes, it is important to stop taking Acticol when you start to feel better. Do not stop taking the medication without speaking to your doctor first.

Is Acticol a steroid?

No, Acticol is not a steroid. It is an expectorant medication that helps clear mucus from the lungs so that it is easier to cough up.

Does Acticol cause drowsiness?

Yes, one of the side effects of Acticol is drowsiness. If you experience drowsiness, it is important to avoid driving or operating machinery while taking this medication.

Can I take Acticol if I have diabetes?

Yes, it is generally safe to take Acticol if you have diabetes. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking this medication if you have any other existing medical conditions.

Does Acticol interact with other medications?

Yes, some medications may interact with Acticol and should not be taken together. It is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medications while taking Acticol.

Can I take Acticol if I have a cold or flu?

Yes, Acticol can be used to treat the symptoms of cold and flu, such as chest congestion and a persistent cough. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking this medication to ensure it is suitable for you.

What type of cough does Acticol treat?

Acticol is an expectorant medication that is used to treat a variety of respiratory conditions, including persistent cough, bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchiectasis.

What is the difference between Acticol and dextromethorphan?

Acticol is an expectorant medication that helps clear phlegm (mucus) from the airways in the lungs. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that works by blocking the coughing reflex in the brain. Both medications are available over-the-counter, but it is important to speak to your doctor before taking either medication.

What is the difference between Acticol and Guaifenesin?

Acticol is an expectorant medication that helps clear phlegm (mucus) from the airways in the lungs. Guaifenesin is an expectorant medication that helps thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. Both medications are available over-the-counter, but it is important to speak to your doctor before taking either medication.

Is Acticol suitable for children?

Acticol is not recommended for children under the age of six. For children aged six and over, it is important to speak to a doctor before taking this medication.

What type of infections does Acticol treat?

Acticol is used to treat a variety of respiratory infections, including persistent cough, bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchiectasis.

Can I take Acticol with other cough medicines?

It is not recommended to take other cough and cold medications while taking Acticol, as there is a risk of them interacting and increasing the risk of side effects. If you are taking other medications, it is important to speak to a doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.

What should I avoid while taking Acticol?

It is important to avoid driving or operating machinery while taking Acticol, as it can cause drowsiness and fatigue. It is also important to avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

Can I take Acticol if I have kidney disease?

Yes, it is generally safe to take Acticol if you have kidney disease. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking this medication to ensure the correct dosage is prescribed for you.

Does Acticol contain sulfites?

No, Acticol does not contain sulfites. It is an expectorant medication that helps clear mucus from the lungs so that it is easier to cough up.

What is the difference between Acticol and Bromhexine?

Acticol is an expectorant medication that helps clear phlegm (mucus) from the airways in the lungs. Bromhexine is an expectorant medication that loosens mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up. Both medications are available over-the-counter, but it is important to speak to your doctor before taking either medication.

Does Acticol cause weight gain?

No, Acticol does not usually cause weight gain. However, it is important to speak to a doctor if you experience any unexpected side effects while taking this medication.

Is Acticol habit forming?

No, Acticol is not habit forming. However, it is important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor and not to take more than the prescribed dose.

Is Acticol suitable for seniors?

Yes, Acticol is suitable for seniors. However, it is important to speak to a doctor before starting treatment to ensure the correct dosage is prescribed for you.

Can I take Acticol with food?

Yes, it is generally safe to take Acticol with food. However, it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medications while taking Acticol.

How long does it take for Acticol to leave your system?

The amount of time it takes for Acticol to be eliminated from the body can vary from person to person, but it usually takes a few days. It is important to take Acticol as prescribed by your doctor.

Can I take Acticol if I have a sulfite allergy?

Yes, Acticol does not contain sulfites. It is an expectorant medication that helps clear mucus from the lungs so that it is easier to cough up.