* Expectorants – increase airway water or the volume of airway secretions * Mucolytics – thin (reduce the viscosity of) mucus * Mucokinetics – increase transportability of mucus by cough * Mucoregulators – suppress underlying mechanisms of mucus hypersecretion In general, clearance ability is hampered by the bonding to surfaces (stickiness), and by the viscosity of mucous secretions in the lungs. In turn, the viscosity is dependent upon the concentration of mucoprotein in the secretions. Expectorants and mucolytic agents are different types of medication, yet both are intended to promote drainage of mucus from the lungs. An expectorant (from the Latin expectorare, to expel or banish) works by signaling the body to increase the amount or hydration of secretions, resulting in more yet clearer secretions and as a byproduct lubricating the irritated respiratory tract. One expectorant, guaifenesin, is commonly available in many cough syrups and also as long release tablets. Mucolytics can dissolve thick mucus and are usually used to help relieve respiratory difficulties. They do this by breaking down the chemical bonds between molecules in the mucus. This in turn can lower the viscosity by altering the mucin-containing components. Alternatively, attacking the affinity between secretions and the biological surfaces is another avenue, which is used by abhesives and surfactants. Any of these effects could improve airway clearance during coughing.
Mucoactive agent
Proton-pump inhibitor
Deodorant
Immunostimulant
Cholagogue
Prokinetic agent
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
Aerosol-generating procedure