The active ingredient in Carbocisteine capsules is carbocisteine. This drug belongs to a group of medicines called the ‘mucolytics’. They make mucus in the respiratory tract less sticky and easier to cough up. Carbocisteine is used to treat problems associated with the respiratory tract such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to carbocisteine or any other ingredient, or if you have a stomach or gut ulcer. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to get pregnant you should not take this medicine during the first 3 months.
Consult your doctor, if you are elderly, have had an ulcer before or if you are taking medicines known to cause bleeding in the stomach.
This medicine contains lactulose, you should consult a doctor if you are intolerant towards some sugars.
Carbocisteine can lead to many side effects, however not everybody gets them. Some side effects include;
- Allergic reactions, such as a rash, swallowing or breathing problems, swelling up of the lips, face, throat or tongue - Blistering or bleeding of the skin, including around your lips, eyes, mouth, nose and genitals. - Flu like symptoms and fever - Blood in your vomit or black stools.If you experience any such severe side effect or if your condition continues to worsen, you should go see a doctor immediately.
Carbocisteine capsule should be taken exactly as advised by the doctor. You should take the medicine by mouth. If you feel the medicine is too weak or too strong, speak to your doctor before adjusting the dose.
The recommended dose for adults is two capsules, 3 times a day. If the symptoms improve, the doctor may lower the dose to one capsule, 4 times a day.
Carbocisteine tablets are not meant for children. Children should be given a formulated pediatric syrup to treat such conditions.
In case one takes more than the recommended dose of Carbocisteine, you should immediately call the doctor or go to a hospital. Too much of carbocisteine can lead to an upset stomach.
If you forget a dose, make sure you take the next dose on time. Never take a double dose to make up a missed one.
Carbocisteine should be kept in a safe place. It should be kept away from reach of children and pets. Never use Carbocisteine that has crossed its expiry date. It should be stored below 25ºc.
Carbocisteine works by breaking down the mucus that is produced in the lungs, making it less thick and sticky and hence easier to cough up.
