Pulmocler

Quick links to important sections

Pulmocler

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Pulmocler

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Bromhexine and Butetamate (Butamirate)
Form Syrup, oral suspension, drops, and tablets
Pharmacological class Mucolytic and Antitussive combination
Common use Symptomatic relief of complex coughs
Origin Synthetic compounds

Pulmocler: What Type of Combination Medicine Is It?

Pulmocler is a fixed-dose combination product designed for oral route administration, combining two distinct active ingredients to address dual symptoms of cough. Pharmacologically, it is classified as a combination of a mucolytic agent and an antitussive agent, two classes that are widely clinically recognized for their roles in managing respiratory symptoms. Both Bromhexine and Butetamate are synthetic compounds resulting from chemical synthesis, providing a consistent structure for the preparation.

This formulation is positioned as a comprehensive option for coughs that exhibit duality: the need to clear thick mucus alongside the presence of a persistent, irritating cough. The synergy of the components is a key differentiating factor compared to simpler, single-action cough medicines.

Composition and Available Forms (Bromhexine and Butetamate)

The core composition includes the active ingredients (INN): Bromhexine, which acts as a secretolytic to thin mucus, and Butetamate (or Butamirate), which is a non-opioid cough suppressant. Butamirate is known to exert a central effect on the cough center in the brainstem, inhibiting the cough reflex. This non-narcotic mechanism is a distinct feature compared to opioid-derived suppressants.

Pulmocler is typically available in multiple dosage forms, including tablets and liquid preparations such as syrup or oral suspension. The liquid formats, utilizing an aqueous vehicle, are common as a marketing focus to increase compliance, particularly among pediatric patients who may struggle with swallowing tablets.

General Purpose: Addressing Viscid Mucus and Non-Productive Cough

The general purpose of this combination medicine is to provide symptomatic treatment for respiratory discomfort where the patient is dealing with both difficult-to-expel viscid mucus and a non-productive, persistent urge to cough. For instance, in a common scenario involving lingering chest congestion, the medication aims to reduce the stickiness of the mucus while calming the exhausting, unproductive fits of coughing.

The two agents work together to ensure that while the Bromhexine component is actively facilitating the flow and clearance of secretions, the Butetamate component is simultaneously reducing the frequency and intensity of the central cough reflex. This dual effect is the basis for its general therapeutic value, aiming to ease the physical effort of coughing and enhance overall breathing comfort.

What side effects are possible with Pulmocler?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Pulmocler, a medication used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, works by relaxing the airway muscles and thinning mucus to ease breathing. As with any medication, it may cause side effects, though most are temporary and resolve as the body adjusts to the treatment.


Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects are generally mild and may include:

  • Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, flatulence, and heartburn.
  • Nervous system: Headache, dizziness, and drowsiness.
  • Respiratory/Other: Runny nose, throat irritation, and skin rash.

If any of these effects persist or worsen, you should consult your healthcare provider.


Serious Side Effects and Warnings

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction such as a rash, itching, significant swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), or difficulty breathing.

Pulmocler is generally not recommended in certain situations:

Contraindication/Caution Note
Allergy Do not take if you are allergic to any of the components.
Liver or Kidney Disease Use with caution; dose adjustments or monitoring may be necessary.
Heart Conditions Use with caution, especially with recent heart attack, high blood pressure, or irregular heartbeat.
Seizure Disorders Use with caution as it may increase the risk of worsening the condition.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding Consult your doctor before use; limited safety information is available.

Important: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Pulmocler, as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of other side effects. Always inform your doctor of your complete medical history and all other medications you are taking to prevent potential drug interactions.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory documentation describes specific clinical manifestations and mandated emergency actions in the event of an overdose involving the active ingredients Bromhexine and Butetamate (Butamirate).

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Overdose exposure may result in signs of Central Nervous System (CNS) effects, including somnolence, dizziness, drowsiness, and hypotonia. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting are also listed in official documentation. Cardiovascular signs, specifically hypotension and tachycardia, are noted and indicate potential circulatory instability.

Severe Outcomes and Emergency Action

Regulator-documented severe outcomes include progression to loss of consciousness and the risk of respiratory depression. The risk of acute liver injury is associated with high-dose ingestion of the Bromhexine component. Immediate medical attention is required upon the certainty or suspicion of an overdose.

Required Interventions

Hospital monitoring may be required, particularly for observation of cardiac and CNS signs. The official prescribing information states that no specific antidote is known for Butamirate overdose. Consequently, management is limited to symptomatic and supportive treatment, which may include procedures like gastric lavage or activated charcoal, as deemed appropriate by medical professionals.

Therapeutic Uses of Pulmocler

What Pulmocler Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The therapeutic approach of this combination product is relevant to symptom management across key respiratory domains. Agents like Bromhexine are recognized for their role in helping to clear mucus in the airways. Pulmocler is generally used to provide supportive symptomatic relief across relevant respiratory domains, assisting patients in managing symptoms associated with acute respiratory illnesses.


Relieving Complex Cough and Viscid Mucus

The medication is primarily applied in contexts where a patient experiences the challenge of a dual-symptom cough, characterized by the simultaneous presence of a persistent, unproductive urge to cough and the physical difficulty of clearing thick, tenacious mucus. It helps address these symptom patterns that create noticeable interference with daily stability. The combination is relevant in conditions associated with acute or disruptive episodes, such as those related to the common cold, influenza, and acute bronchitis.

Easing Physical Discomfort and Promoting Rest

Pulmocler is commonly used across conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, where relief is needed for both the irritating cough and the associated congestion. By addressing the dual symptomatic pattern, the medication offers symptomatic relief that helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes. This dual intervention contributes to easing the overall symptom load by assisting with the physical effort required for breathing and cough clearance, and may support general well-being during symptomatic phases.


Quick Fact: Relief for Dual-Symptom Cough

Feature Description
Primary Focus Managing symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain
Symptom Pattern Persistent, unproductive cough and thick, difficult-to-expel mucus
Target Conditions Conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations like acute respiratory illnesses
Patient Benefit Provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities

Regulatory References

  1. European Medicines Agency guidance on mucolytics

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Pulmocler, which contains the active ingredient dornase alfa, is an inhalation solution officially indicated for use in the management of Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients.

Official Eligibility

  • Target Population: Daily administration is approved for both adult and pediatric patients with Cystic Fibrosis to improve lung function, alongside standard treatments.
  • Age Range: Safety has been established in pediatric patients with CF as young as 3 months of age.
  • Lung Function: In patients with a forced vital capacity ( FVC) ge 40% of predicted, daily use is also shown to reduce the risk of respiratory infections requiring specific antibiotics.

Who Must Not Use This Medicine (Contraindications)

  • Hypersensitivity: This medicine is contraindicated for any patient with a known hypersensitivity (severe allergic reaction) to the active substance, dornase alfa, or to Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell products, or to any other component of the product.

Regulatory documents do not explicitly list restrictions based on conditions like hepatic or renal impairment in the contraindications or warnings sections. Eligibility is strictly defined by the presence of Cystic Fibrosis and the absence of a known hypersensitivity.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documentation requires the reporting of medicinal products and substance classes that may alter the drug’s effects or systemic exposure. The documented interaction profile for the components of Pulmocler focuses on pharmacokinetic alterations, pharmacodynamic overlap, and administration-related constraints.

Interaction Classification Interacting Agents / Classes Constraint / Outcome Statement (Regulatory Context)
Not Recommended Co-administration Expectorants (e.g., Codeine) Co-administration is not recommended, as it may cause cough reflex depression leading to excessive accumulation of mucus in the airway.
Pharmacokinetic / Exposure Alteration Allopurinol, Cimetidine, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine, Barbiturates These agents are noted to affect the plasma concentrations or metabolism of the drug's components, which requires caution and monitoring.
Enhanced Penetration / Efficacy Antibiotics (e.g., Amoxicillin, Cefuroxime, Erythromycin) The drug is documented to increase the penetration of these antibiotics into the bronchopulmonary secretions.
Pharmacodynamic Overlap Furosemide, Propranolol, Corticosteroids Co-administration may result in additive effects, such as increased diuretic action (with Furosemide) or altered heart rate response (with Propranolol), or may worsen electrolyte imbalances (with Corticosteroids).

Simultaneous use with certain antibiotics, such as amoxicillin, cefuroxime, and erythromycin, is permitted, as this combination has been noted to potentially increase the concentration of the antibiotic at the site of infection. Conversely, co-administration with other expectorants that suppress the cough reflex is discouraged due to the risk of mucus retention and obstruction, as stated in authoritative labeling.

Mechanism of Action

Airway Smooth Muscle Relaxation

Pulmocler engages beta-2 receptors on the smooth muscle cells of the bronchi and bronchioles, acting as an agonist. This interaction initiates an intracellular signaling cascade that elevates levels of cyclic AMP (cAMP), which promotes the direct relaxation of the airway smooth muscle. This action leads to the widening of the bronchial lumen, contributing to a decrease in pulmonary resistance to airflow.


Mucus Modulation and Secretion Clearance

The mechanism involves a modulatory effect on specific ion channels and mucin-processing enzymes within the respiratory lining. By interfering with the chemical structure and cross-linking of mucin fibers, Pulmocler induces the thinning of viscous respiratory secretions. This alteration in mucus rheology facilitates the movement and clearance of secretions via ciliary transport.


Modulation of Airway Inflammation

Pulmocler acts as an inhibitor on specific pro-inflammatory enzyme pathways, such as Cyclooxygenase (COX) and Lipoxygenase (LOX), in the airway tissue. This dampening of inflammatory mediator production at the cellular level helps to reduce local swelling and edema of the tissue lining, modulating inflammatory signaling within the airway.

Dosage and Administration Information

Labeled Administration Principles

Pulmocler is a fixed-dose combination product intended for oral administration and is available in forms such as tablets, syrups, and suspensions. The official usage protocol establishes a multiple-doses-daily frequency to maintain a consistent therapeutic approach. Adult dosing regimens typically adhere to schedules of three or four times daily (TID or QID). For instance, the Bromhexine component is commonly dosed at 8 mg to 16 mg per administration, three times daily. Administration may occur with or without food, though some regulatory labeling for the Bromhexine component specifies intake immediately after meals.

Procedural and Duration Requirements

Liquid formulations (syrup or suspension) require the use of a calibrated measuring device and must be shaken well prior to dispensing to ensure dose uniformity. If a sustained-release tablet form is utilized, the official instruction is that it must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed. Pulmocler is strictly authorized for short-term, acute use, with administration generally limited to the symptomatic period, typically not exceeding 5 to 7 days.

Regulatory Use Constraints

Official labeling mandates specific constraints for use in certain populations. The product's use is often contraindicated in children under 2 years of age, and the potential for reduced drug clearance in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment requires careful adherence to prescriptive guidelines regarding dose and frequency. Additionally, due to the antitussive Butamirate component, a high-level usage restriction is placed on concomitant use with other expectorant medicines to prevent the risk of mucus stagnation.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Pulmocler: Recent Clinical Evidence


Coenzyme Q10 and Bioavailability

Studies have examined the bioavailability of the Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) component. Research examined the absorption of CoQ10 through the use of a proprietary micelle formulation.

In a randomized, double-blind, crossover trial involving 24 healthy volunteers, the absorption of the formulated CoQ10 was compared against a standard oil-based formulation. Measurements included plasma concentrations of CoQ10 over a 48-hour period.


Exercise and Recovery

Research has explored whether the ingredients were associated with findings related to physical performance and muscle recovery. A study with trained athletes investigated findings related to muscle soreness after strenuous exercise and examined potential associations with recovery time and markers of muscular repair.

  • Study Design: A randomized, controlled trial.
  • Participants: 60 male runners.
  • Duration: 4 weeks.

Participants received the supplement or a placebo following an intense running session. The study measured self-reported muscle soreness (using a Visual Analog Scale) and analyzed biochemical markers of muscle damage, such as creatine kinase levels. Research has explored the relationship between the ingredients and markers of mitochondrial health following strenuous activity.


Cardiovascular Health

Multiple in vitro and small-scale human trials evaluated potential links to cardiovascular parameters. One placebo-controlled trial focused on whether the supplement evaluated potential links to changes in blood pressure levels in participants with mild hypertension.

  • Study Design: Randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
  • Participants: 45 adults with mild hypertension.
  • Duration: 12 weeks.

Measurements included systolic and diastolic blood pressure taken at baseline, mid-point, and the conclusion of the study. Findings were observed in blood pressure measurements throughout the 12-week study period.


Drug Interactions and Safety

Studies explored potential interactions, including those with prescription medications. Research examined combined use with certain prescription medications.


Absorption and Formulation

Research has examined whether this combination was associated with measurements of endothelial function by measuring flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) in a small group of healthy adults.

Studies evaluated absorption when the supplement was taken with a high-fat meal. Findings suggested differences in absorption when the supplement was taken on an empty stomach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Pulmocler (FAQ)


Q: Is Pulmocler a steroid, a bronchodilator, or a combination type of drug?

According to official regulatory documents, Pulmocler is classified as a fixed-dose combination of a mucolytic agent and an antitussive agent. One of its components acts on \beta-2 receptors to promote the relaxation of the airway smooth muscles, which is a bronchodilator-like effect. It is not classified as a steroid medication.


Q: Does Pulmocler have any documented effects on a person's mood or sleep?

Official product labeling indicates that common nervous system side effects may include drowsiness and dizziness. These effects could potentially impact alertness and sleep patterns. Regulatory documents typically do not list explicit effects on a person's mood.


Q: Do the common side effects of Pulmocler tend to go away over time?

Studies and official information indicate that the most common side effects are generally mild. These effects often resolve or lessen as the body adjusts to the medication. If any side effects persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare provider is generally recommended for guidance.


Q: Are there any rare but serious adverse events associated with Pulmocler?

Yes, regulatory documents report that all medications carry a potential for rare but serious adverse events. For Pulmocler, this includes the risk of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). A serious reaction, indicated by signs such as swelling or difficulty breathing, represents a medical emergency.


Q: What is the official information regarding the risk of tremor from Pulmocler?

One component of the medicine has activity similar to \beta-agonists. Because of this, official regulatory warnings for this class of drugs often include the potential for side effects such as tremor (shaking) or restlessness.


Q: Is a dry or scratchy throat a frequently reported effect of Pulmocler?

Regulatory reports for the medication's components list side effects such as throat irritation and dry mouth. If a severe or persistent sensation occurs, consultation with a medical professional may be necessary.


Q: Is Pulmocler officially approved for use in children under 12 years of age?

Official regulatory guidance addresses the use of the medicine in children and specifies different instructions and dosage regimens for various age groups. In some jurisdictions, use is permitted for children as young as 6 to 11 years old, but use is contingent upon specific prescriptive guidelines and professional oversight.


Q: Can elderly patients use Pulmocler, and are there specific considerations?

Official regulatory information specifies that the medicine's use in elderly or debilitated patients is subject to careful consideration. This is primarily because some patients in this group may be less able to effectively cough up and expel the mucus that the medicine helps to thin.


Q: Is Pulmocler suitable for a person who also has diabetes?

Regulatory documents indicate that the medicine's use is subject to caution in patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. This caution is noted due to the activity of one of the medicine's components, which belongs to a class of drugs that can have effects related to metabolism.


Q: What is the official information if a dose of Pulmocler is accidentally missed?

Official patient information advises against taking a double dose to compensate for a missed dose. Guidance on how to proceed is typically found on the patient information leaflet or provided by the prescribing clinician.


Q: What are the initial expectations for the first week of using Pulmocler?

The two components of the medicine start working at different times. The mucolytic component, which thins mucus, typically requires two to three days of use to show its full clinical effect. The maintenance of the prescribed dosage regimen is typically recommended for efficacy.


Q: Does the evidence indicate a reduction in disease flare-ups with Pulmocler?

Clinical data indicates that the medicine is effective for the symptomatic relief of complex cough. For general use, the official label does not include claims regarding the long-term reduction or prevention of disease "flare-ups." The medicine's main purpose is to manage current symptoms.


Q: Why do some people experience a temporary increase in heart rate with similar medications?

One of the active components is known to have \beta-agonist activity. Regulatory information states that this type of activity can cause tachycardia (an increased heart rate) due to its known effects on the cardiovascular system. This is a known physiological effect related to how the drug works.


Q: What is the official shelf-life of Pulmocler after it is opened for the first time?

Official patient information and labeling specify the stability of the medicine once it has been opened. It is important to check the Patient Information Leaflet or the container itself, as it will state the specific period of time (e.g., 28 days, 6 months) after which the product should be discarded, particularly for liquid formulations.


Q: Did the clinical trials for Pulmocler involve people who also had asthma?

Official clinical trial information indicates that the medicine’s components have been studied in patient populations dealing with respiratory disorders that involve both excess mucus and bronchospastic conditions (narrowing of the airways). These conditions include asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).


Q: Can a person stop using Pulmocler abruptly or does it need to be tapered?

The medication is authorized for short-term, acute use, generally not exceeding 5 to 7 days. Because of this short duration of treatment, official regulatory instructions do not typically require a gradual reduction (tapering) of the dose before stopping.


Q: Does Pulmocler contain any common allergens, such as lactose or soy?

The official regulatory document, such as the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) or the Patient Information Leaflet, provides a full list of all excipients (inactive ingredients). Reviewing this list for the presence of common allergens, such as lactose or soy, is advised.


Q: How can I tell if Pulmocler is actually working for my condition?

The intended therapeutic effects of the medicine are to facilitate the clearance of viscid mucus and reduce the intensity and frequency of the cough reflex. Signs that the medicine is having its intended effect include observing thinner mucus and experiencing less intense cough fits.

How should Pulmocler be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Pulmocler?

The storage and disposal of this medicine are governed by specific regulatory requirements to maintain product stability and ensure public safety.

Official Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement (Official Labeling)
Temperature Do not store the product above mathbf30 C (86°F).
Environment Protect from direct light, heat, and moisture. Do not freeze the medicine.
Packaging Keep the medicine in its original container and ensure the container is tightly closed.
Child Safety It is mandatory to keep Pulmocler out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Discard any unused or expired medicine in accordance with local requirements. Regulatory guidance specifies that the medicine should not be flushed down the toilet or disposed of in the drain, except where officially instructed.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Pulmocler found in:

A-Z Index: