Mucolite tablets may have side effects; however, not everyone experiences them. Common side effects can occur in up to 1 person in 10 taking the medication. It is important to note that these side effects are usually mild and go away without much medical attention.
The common side effects of Mucolite tablets include
- Nausea: Mucolite tablet can cause nausea. It is a feeling of discomfort or unease in the stomach and the urge to vomit.
- Vomiting: This side effect of the Mucolite tablet is usually mild. It is an involuntary expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth.
- Diarrhoea: Common side effect caused by Mucolite tablet is Diarrhoea. Diarrhoea is the recurrent passing of loose, watery stools and is usually mild.
- Indigestion: It is better to consume Mucolite 30mg tablet with food to help prevent indigestion. Indigestion is a feeling of discomfort or pain in the abdomen.
- Dry Mouth: Mucolite tablet may cause dry mouth, leading to difficulty in swallowing and speaking. It may also increase the risk of dental decay and gum disease.
- Change in the sense of taste: Mucolite tablet can cause a change in the sense, which may affect the patient's appetite.
Managing the Side Effects
Mucolite 30mg tablet is generally harmless and effective. However, as with all drugs, it can cause adverse effects in certain patients. Here are ways to manage the side effects:
- Nausea and vomiting: Refraining from foods high in fat, greasy, or spicy would be best. Drinking clear fluids such as water or electrolyte solutions can help to prevent dehydration.
- Diarrhoea: Drinking plenty of fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration would be best. Also avoid foods that are high in fibre, dairy, and caffeine.
- Indigestion: Avoid foods that are spicy, high in fat, or acidic. Eating small, more frequent meals can also help to relieve symptoms. If indigestion persists, patients can try taking an antacid medication after consulting with a healthcare professional.
- Dry mouth: You can manage dry mouth by staying hydrated and using sugar-free gum or lozenges to stimulate saliva production. They can also avoid caffeine, tobacco and alcohol, which can worsen dry mouth.
- Change in the sense of taste: Though the side effect is generally mild and resolves on its own, you can try eating strong-flavoured foods or using sugar-free mints or gum to mask the taste.
Precautions
Pregnancy
It is not advisable to use Mucolite Tablets during pregnancy, especially during the first three months. You should consult and inform your doctor before using the medication.
Breastfeeding
It is not advisable to take the Mucolite Tablets if breastfeeding as your breast milk may contain ambroxol hydrochloride that is secreted. Although no adverse reactions to the breastfeeding infant will occur, breastfeeding moms are not advised to take Mucolite tablets.
Alcohol
Consumption of alcohol should be avoided while taking Mucolite 30mg tablets, as it may increase the possibility of side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
Liver
If you suffer from liver problems, take caution when using a Mucolite tablet and inform your healthcare provider about your condition. If the liver is not functioning effectively, it may be unable to metabolise Mucolite Tablets, increasing the risk of side effects.
Kidney
If you have severe kidney impairment, you should avoid using Mucolite tablet, as there is a risk of drug accumulation in the body, which can lead to adverse effects.
Using Machine and Driving
Mucolite tablets may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired concentration. Avoiding activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, is better.
Allergy
Avoid taking Mucolite tablets if you are allergic to Ambroxol or any other ingredients in the medication.
Use In Children
Mucolite tablets are not recommended for use in children under the age of 18 years, as the safety and efficacy of the medication in this age group have not been established.
Use In Older Patients
Mucolite tablets should be used with caution in older patients (aged above 65), as they are more susceptible to the effects of the medication. Dose adjustment may be required in elderly patients with liver or kidney impairment.
Interaction
Drug-Drug Interactions
Mucolite tablets containing Ambroxol may interact with other medications, leading to potential drug-drug interactions.
The Mucolite tablets can interact with Medications, including
- Cough suppressants: Combining Mucolite tablets and cough suppressants such as codeine or dextromethorphan may reduce the effectiveness of Mucolite by decreasing the cough reflex and impairing the clearance of mucus from the respiratory tract.
- Antibiotics: The co-administration of antibiotics such as amoxicillin, erythromycin, and doxycycline with Mucolite tablets may increase the concentration of the antibiotic in the respiratory tract and enhance its effectiveness.
Drug-Food Interactions
There are no significant drug-food interactions reported with Mucolite tablets.
Drug-Disease Interactions
It is essential to consider potential drug-disease interactions when prescribing or dispensing medication. Here are some drug-disease interactions that should be considered when using Mucolite tablets:
- Respiratory depression: Mucolite 30mg tablet should be used cautiously in patients with respiratory depression, as it can further depress respiration.
- Asthma: Mucolite 30mg tablet may exacerbate asthma symptoms in some patients. Therefore, it should be cautiously administered in patients with a history of asthma.
- Peptic ulcer: Mucolite 30mg tablet may increase gastric acidity, exacerbating symptoms in patients with peptic ulcer disease. It should be used cautiously in patients with a medical history of peptic ulcers.
- Kidney and liver problems: Precaution must be taken while taking Mucolite 30mg if you suffer from kidney or liver impairment, as it may increase the risk of toxicity.