Products
Erdostein is commercially available in the form of capsules (Mucofor). It was developed at Edmond Pharma in Milan, Italy, and has been approved in many countries since 1994.
Structure and properties
Erdostein (C8H11NO4S2, Mr = 249.3 g/mol) is a prodrug. The effects are mediated by the free sulfhydryl groups (-SH) of the metabolites. The thiolactone ring is opened in vivo.
Effects
Erdostein (ATC R05CB15) is mucolytic, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant according to the manufacturer. The effects are mediated by the free SH group of metabolites. We cannot comment on clinical efficacy based on our research. A recently published meta-analysis seems to confirm efficacy (Cazzola et al., 2010).
Indications
Respiratory diseases that result in the formation of viscous secretions that cannot be expectorated or are inadequately expectorated, such as acute bronchitis or acute episodes of chronic bronchitis.
Dosage
According to the drug label. The usual dose for adults is 300 mg 2 times daily (daily dose 600 mg).
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Stomach ulcer
- Renal failure
- Severe hepatic insufficiency
It is not yet approved for children and adolescents. There are insufficient data on use during pregnancy and lactation. Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Concomitant use of an antitussive is not considered medically useful because blockade of the cough stimulus could lead to secretion congestion in respiratory diseases with mucus production. No further data on interactions are available.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include digestive symptoms such as stomach pain, stomach burning, nausea, diarrhea, and taste disturbances, as well as hypersensitivity reactions.
