What is the Purpose of an Expectorant?

A cough is an irritating symptom of a cold or the flu. The cough can become more dominant with a feeling of tightness in the chest and pain in the back. An expectorant or antitussive, which is taken orally or by mouth, can give relief and help loosen the mucus and congestion. There are over-the-counter expectorants on the market that can help with the congestion if you catch it early enough. If you have a fever and find it hard to take deep breaths without coughing it would be wise to call the doctor or go to the emergency room.

Function

• The expectorant medication that is taken will thin out the thickening mucus that has built up in the lungs and respiratory tract. This helps the mucus to move when the cough persists. Coughing will break up the mucus and evacuate it from the body with the aid of the expectorant.

Types

• Guaifenesin is an expectorant that is the active ingredient in many cold tablets and cough syrup products that are sold over-the-counter. It was approved in 1952 by the Federal Drug Administration. Prescription expectorants come in liquid, tablet, elixir, syrup, capsule and sustained release tablets. An over-the-counter extended release tablet called Mucinex can be purchased without a prescription.

Time Frame

• Expectorant will begin working on the mucus buildup within a few hours. You may feel worse for a short period, up to 48 hours, as the expectorant fights the buildup of phlegm. Coughing will increase as the mucus thins and loosens. You may find it a relief to sleep or rest in a more upright position with pillows behind your shoulders.

Considerations

• It is important to drink plenty of water when taking any form of an expectorant. Water can aid the expectorant in loosening the phlegm. If you are taking tablets it is necessary to swallow them whole. Tablets with a crease scored into the pill can be split. The two halves should be swallowed whole and not crushed. Expectorants should be stored at room temperature, no higher than 86 degrees.
  There are various dosages for older children and adults. Follow the package or doctor's prescription directions.

Warning

• You should never give over-the-counter expectorants or cold medicines to a child under the age of 4. If a child has symptoms of a cold with thick mucus and a tightening cough you must see a doctor. Administering medications such as these to a young child can create a life-threatening situation. If you miss a dose of expectorant take it as soon as possible. If it is close to the time of the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double a dose. If the cough persists after seven days, you have a fever, sore throat or rash, it is imperative that you see the doctor. You could have a more serious condition.

Side Effects

• All medications can have side effects. Expectorant side effects that are rare include nausea, vomiting, rash, headache, diarrhea, hives and stomach pain. Check with the doctor's office if you are experiencing any of these side effects.