Mucoactive agent
Mucoactive agent
A Mucoactive agent (pronunciation: myoo-koh-ak-tiv ey-jent) is a type of pharmaceutical drug that aids in the clearance of mucus from the airways, lungs, bronchi, and trachea.
Etymology
The term "mucoactive" is derived from "mucus," a type of slippery secretion produced by, and covering, mucous membranes, and "active," indicating the agent's role in affecting the properties of mucus.
Types of Mucoactive Agents
There are several types of mucoactive agents, including:
- Expectorants: These increase the water content of mucus, reducing its viscosity and making it easier to cough up.
- Mucolytics: These break down the structure of mucus molecules, making the mucus thinner and less sticky.
- Mucokinetics: These increase the effectiveness of the cilia, the tiny hair-like structures in the lungs that move mucus out of the airways.
- Mucoregulators: These reduce the production of mucus.
Usage
Mucoactive agents are used in the treatment of respiratory diseases characterized by abnormal mucus, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, and cystic fibrosis. They can also be used in acute conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia.
Related Terms
- Bronchodilator: A type of medication that relaxes and opens the airways, or bronchi, in the lungs.
- Antitussive: A medication that suppresses coughing.
- Decongestant: A type of medication that reduces swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mucoactive agent
- Wikipedia's article - Mucoactive agent
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