Codelac Broncho: indications, how to take it correctly

Composition and release form

The medicine is dispensed in the following forms:

• The tablets are round, light white or cream in color, with minor inclusions possible. Packaged in cardboard packaging with 1-2 blisters, each containing 10 pieces.
• Syrup - presented as a liquid base with the taste of thyme. Available in 50, 100 and 125 ml volumes. Sold in a glass bottle and secondary cardboard packaging with attached instructions for use.

Active ingredients, regardless of type: ambroxol hydrochloride, sodium glycyrrhizinate. Also dry thermopsis extract and sodium bicarbonate in tablets; liquid thyme extract in syrup.

Auxiliary components: starch, cellulose, talc, nipazole, pure water, sorbitol, stearic acid.

What kind of cough do Codelac Broncho tablets and elixir help with?

The effect of both dosage forms of the drug is similar. These are mucolytics with a moderate anti-inflammatory effect. Designed to liquefy mucous secretions, improve the passage of accumulated clots from the bronchi and lungs. Increases cough productivity and helps cleanse the respiratory system.

Ambroxol in combination with thermopsis extract reduces the viscosity of mucus, stimulating its elimination. Sodium bicarbonate improves the motility of bronchioles and epithelial villi on the walls of the bronchi. Glycyrrhizinate has an antimicrobial effect and neutralizes the damaging effects of oxidation products. Thyme complements the activity of other components of the elixir, helps to expectorate mucus more easily, helps relieve microspasms and makes breathing easier.

Positive dynamics are usually observed from the second day of therapy. The effect of the medicine increases gradually: the cough becomes less intrusive, the mucus leaves in a larger volume, and relief comes faster.

pharmachologic effect

The medicine is intended to treat cough symptoms of any origin. It has a pronounced expectorant and mucolytic effect, and a weak anti-inflammatory effect.

Thanks to the main substances in the composition, the drug promotes the dilution of bronchial secretions and its good discharge.

Due to glycyrrate, there is a decrease in the inflammatory process, the fight against viral agents, and antioxidant properties.

Thermopsis extract stimulates expectoration of sputum, normalizing the secretion in the bronchopulmonary system due to some irritation of the gastric mucosa.

Sodium bicarbonate has an alkaline effect, reduces the viscosity of mucus and stimulates the motility of the epithelial tissue of the bronchopulmonary apparatus.

Thyme plant extract contains a number of essential oils, which contributes to an expectorant, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect.

The pharmacological activity of the drug is aimed at suppressing dry cough, wheezing in the lungs and respiratory failure. In addition, Codelac Broncho reduces the time of intoxication and helps to quickly relieve a runny nose.

"Codelac® Broncho": complex composition and mild action

The composition of Codelac® Broncho is complex: it contains both components synthesized in the laboratory and natural substances obtained from medicinal plants. Thanks to the components included in the drug, there is a complex effect on the factors involved in the occurrence of wet cough.

In pharmacies you can find tablets and elixir “Codelac® Broncho”. They differ slightly in composition. The main active substance is the same for both forms. This is ambroxol - a component with mucolytic and expectorant effects. It helps to liquefy mucus and improve its removal. Ambroxol exhibits its effect approximately half an hour after administration, the effect lasts up to 12 hours (this depends on the dose taken) [1].

On a note! Ambroxol as the main active ingredient is included in many popular remedies for combating wet cough. But, unlike single-component drugs, Codelac® Broncho works more efficiently[2]. This is explained by the combined pharmacological activity of all substances in its composition: each of them enhances the effect of the other.

Glycyrrhizic acid, which is obtained from the extract of licorice root, a plant widely used in folk medicine as a cough suppressant, exhibits antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Acting in the body like endogenous corticosteroid hormones, it reduces the strength of the inflammatory response of the respiratory tract. Glycyrrhizic acid also has an antioxidant effect and helps stabilize cell membranes. Due to this, it protects the cells of the respiratory tract.

Thyme herb extract is present in the Codelac® Broncho with Thyme elixir. This plant has also long been used in folk medicine to combat coughs. Official science represented by WHO confirms that thyme extract can be used for respiratory diseases[3]. It has three actions at once: expectorant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. In addition, thyme herb extract has a slight antispasmodic effect and accelerates the restoration of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract.

Thermopsis herb, which is included in Codelac® Broncho tablets, enhances the secretion of mucus in the bronchi, causing sputum to become less viscous. This herbal substance also stimulates the cough reflex, which improves expectoration.

Sodium bicarbonate (present in Codelac® Broncho tablets) also has mucolytic and expectorant effects. The first is achieved by reducing the viscosity of sputum, the second by increasing the motor activity of the ciliated epithelium of the respiratory tract.

So, thanks to the combined composition, the pharmacological action of Codelac® Broncho is aimed at all pathological processes that occur during a productive cough:

• Thinning of mucus and improving its evacuation from the bronchi (due to the effect of ambroxol in both forms of the drug, thyme extract in the elixir, thermopsis and sodium bicarbonate in tablets).
• Reduction of the inflammatory reaction and accelerated restoration of damaged epithelium (achieved due to the properties of glycyrrhizic acid).
• Fighting microorganisms that cause inflammation (glycyrrhizic acid is quite effective against viruses, including influenza[4], and thyme flavonoids suppress the activity of pathogenic bacteria and fungi[5]).

In what cases can Codelac® Broncho be prescribed?

The product is recommended for use for any respiratory diseases that occur with the formation of thick sputum. These are acute and chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, COPD, bronchiectasis. The drug is prescribed for viral respiratory tract infections, which are accompanied by productive and unproductive cough (ARVI, in particular influenza). It is possible to use Codelac® Broncho for coronavirus: Temporary guidelines of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 advise taking mucoactive drugs, including ambroxol, to improve sputum removal[6].

The use of Codelac® Broncho is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or if you have an individual intolerance to any of the components of the drug. Tablets are prohibited for children under 12 years of age. But the elixir “Codelac® Broncho with thyme” has a minimum age restrictions: it can be given to children from two years old, because it does not contain sugar, artificial flavors and dyes.

A few words about how to take Codelac® Broncho in tablets or as an elixir. The choice of one form or another of the drug is determined by age and personal preferences. The tablets are intended for adults and children over 12 years of age. They should be taken orally, with meals, one piece three times a day. The recommended course duration is four to five days.

Cough elixir “Codelac® Broncho with thyme” is suitable for both children from two years of age and adults (the product is available in packages of 100 and 200 ml, so that patients of any age category can easily choose the appropriate volume). Children are given the medicine three times a day, a single dosage depends on age: from two to six years it is 2.5 ml, from six to 12 years - 5 ml. Children over 12 years of age and adult patients should take Codelac® Broncho with thyme elixir 10 ml four times a day.

Last but not least, the choice of pharmaceutical is influenced by the issue of its cost. The price of Codelac® Broncho varies depending on the form of release and the volume of packaging. The elixir in a 100 ml bottle can be purchased in pharmacies for an average of 200 rubles, 200 ml for about 300 rubles. A package of 10 tablets will cost about 160 rubles, and a package of 20 tablets will cost approximately 220 rubles[7].

Contraindications

The following conditions are absolute contraindications to taking Codelac Broncho:

1. Carrying a child and breastfeeding.
2. Allergic reaction to the components of the drug.
3. Children's age - syrup up to 2 years and tablets up to 12 years.

Use the medicine with caution in case of an attack of bronchial asthma, ulcerative lesions of the gastrointestinal tract and disorders of the liver and kidneys.

When to take Codelac Broncho

The drug is taken when signs of respiratory inflammation or symptoms of exacerbation of chronic conditions develop. It is recommended to start the course of treatment from the first minutes of discomfort: sore throat, hoarseness and coughing.

General indications:

• accumulation of sputum in acute and chronic forms of bronchitis;
• chronic pulmonary obstruction;
• bronchiectasis;
• viral or bacterial pneumonia;
• signs of ARVI, accompanied by cough.

Side effects

If the course of therapy is not followed, side effects may occur in the form of:

1. Headache and dizziness.
2. Weakness and fatigue.
3. Rhinorrhea.
4. Dryness of the mucous surface of the respiratory tract.
5. Dyspeptic manifestations - nausea followed by vomiting, dry mouth, pain in the epigastrium, abnormal stool.

Skin rashes and problems with urination are less common.

How to take Codelac Broncho elixir

The liquid preparation is approved for children from 2 years of age. It should also be drunk with food: 3-4 times a day. If necessary, wash down the product with warm water. For kids, you can first dilute the mixture in some familiar drink.

Recommended doses:

• children 2–6 years old: 1–1.5 tsp. twice or thrice a day;
• from 7 to 12 years: 1–1.5 tbsp. l. 2–4 times depending on the intensity of the disease;
• adolescents over 12 years of age and adults: 2–2.5 tbsp. l. 3–4 times a day.

The maximum treatment time without additional medical supervision is 5 days.

Composition of Codelac

1 tablet of Codelac contains codeine (INN - Codeine) - 8 mg, sodium bicarbonate - 200 mg, licorice root in powder form - 200 mg, lanceolate thermopsis herb - 20 mg;
additional substances: potato starch, talc, microcrystalline cellulose. Composition of Codelac Phyto syrup: 5 ml contains codeine phosphate - 4.5 mg, dry thermopsis extract - 0.01 g, thick licorice root extract - 0.2 g, liquid thyme extract - 1 g; additional substances: sorbitol , nipazole , nipagin , water.

special instructions

Before you start taking the drug, it is necessary to establish the cause of the cough and confirm the need for special therapy.

Codelac tablets should not be taken together with expectorants and mucolytic drugs.

Long-term treatment with high doses can lead to drug dependence.

It must be borne in mind that Codelac is a doping drug, since it contains codeine.

Due to the likelihood of sedation, during therapy it is not recommended to engage in types of work that require quick psychomotor reactions and increased attention.

Analogs

Level 4 ATX code matches: Mukolik
Kashnol

Abrol

Anise oil

Ambrosan

Bronchophyte

Pulmolor

Pine buds

Pertussin

Bronchosan

Bronchorus

Gedelix

ACC 100

ACC 200

ACC Long

Mixture for inhalation

ACC

Mukolwan

Lazolvan

Herbion ivy syrup

Bronchipret , cough tablets Thermopsol , Lazolvan .

Codelac Broncho price, where to buy

The price of tablets in Russia ranges from 106 to 127 rubles. for a package of 10 tablets, and the price is 20 pcs. on average about 157 rubles. The cost of syrup differs slightly from tablets - the price of Codelac Broncho with thyme ranges from 121 to 144 rubles.

• Online pharmacies in RussiaRussia
• Online pharmacies in KazakhstanKazakhstan

ZdravCity

• Codelac Broncho + ambroxol 20 mg, tablets 10 pcs. JSC Pharmstandard (ICN) Leksredstva Kursk
  139 rub. order
• Codelac Broncho + ambroxol 20 mg, tablets 20 pcs. JSC Pharmstandard (ICN) Leksredstva Kursk

  RUB 207 order

• Codelac Broncho with thyme elixir fl. 100ml Pharmstandard-Leksredstva OJSC

  RUB 173 order

Pharmacy Dialogue

• Codelac Broncho (elixir with thyme 200ml)FS.-Leksredstva

  RUB 298 order

• Codelac Broncho tablets No. 20FS.-Leksredstva

  RUB 194 order

• Codelac Broncho tablets No. 10FS.-Leksredstva

  129 RUR order

• Codelac Broncho (elixir with thyme 100ml)FS.-Leksredstva

  175 rub. order

• Codelac Broncho (elixir with thyme 200ml)FS.-Leksredstva

  RUB 295 order

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Pharmacological properties

Codelac is a combination drug characterized by a pronounced antitussive and expectorant effect. Codeine reduces the excitability of the cough center, has a weak sedative and analgesic effect and suppresses the reflexes responsible for prolonged coughing. In small doses, the drug does not lead to depression of the respiratory center, does not reduce bronchial secretion and does not disrupt the functioning of the ciliated epithelium.

The active components of thermopsis herb are isoquinoline alkaloids. It helps to excite the respiratory and stimulate the vomiting centers. Codelac has a pronounced expectorant effect, which consists in increasing the tone of the smooth muscles of the bronchi due to the vagotropic effect, intensifying the activity of the ciliated epithelium and more accelerated excretion of secretions, enhancing the secretory function of the bronchial glands.

The biologically active components of the drug have ganglion-blocking properties. Sodium bicarbonate stimulates the motor function of bronchioles and ciliated epithelium, reduces the viscosity of sputum and makes the pH of bronchial mucus more alkaline.

Licorice root is characterized by antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and expectorant effects. The expectorant properties are explained by the content of glycyrrhizin, which stimulates the activity of the ciliated epithelium located in the trachea and bronchi. This substance also increases the secretory function of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. The antispasmodic effect on smooth muscles is due to the presence of flavone compounds (the most active is liquiritoside).

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

The anti-inflammatory effect consists of stopping inflammatory reactions caused by bradykinin, serotonin and histamine. Glycyrrhizic acid is metabolized in the body, producing a glucocorticosteroid-like effect.

The drug begins to act 30–60 minutes after administration. The duration of action is approximately 6 hours. Pharmacokinetic data are not available.

Reviews about Codelac

Numerous reviews of Codelac Phyto indicate that the drug is quite effective. Most patients, having tried all kinds of cough tablets, only received improvement from Codelac. Many mothers leave reviews of Codelac Fito for children as a mild drug, with good tolerability and quick cough relief. Some reviews note the sedative effect as a plus - thanks to this, children sleep better at night.

When choosing treatment, you must always remember what kind of cough Codelac is for - take only for dry cough.

Side effects

During treatment, the following are rarely possible:

• the appearance of physical weakness, dizziness;
• dryness, unpleasant taste in the mouth, loss of appetite;
• abdominal cramps, stool upset, constipation;
• irritation of the mucous membrane of the nasopharynx, trachea;
• the appearance of a runny nose.

After taking large doses, intoxication may occur. Possible vomiting, severe abdominal pain, diarrhea. In such cases, it is necessary to lavage the stomach and take enterosorbents.