What are expectorants?

What are expectorants?

Expectorants are medications which help bring up mucus and other material from the lungs, bronchi and trachea¹. They promote drainage of mucus from the lungs by thinning the mucus and lubricating the irritated respiratory tract¹, making it easier for the lungs to do their job.

Expectorants such as guaifenesin are thought to work by stimulating receptors in the stomach, causing a reflex increase in the volume of fluid produced in the airways². This decreases the thickness of the secretions in the airways, thus loosening phlegm and making it easier to cough up².

Guaifenesin is the active ingredient in the BENYLIN^® Wet Cough range and is used to help clear mucus or phlegm from the chest when you have congestion from a cold or flu, helping you #GetBackOutThere quickly.

References:

1. MedicineNet. Definition of Expectorant. 2016. http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=24354(link is external) - Accessed 25 October 2016
2. NetDoctor. 2014. http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/lungs/a8864/benylin-mucus-cough-menthol-guaifenesin/-(link is external) Accessed 25 October 2016