Acebrophylline, a xanthine derivative, belongs to a class of medication called bronchodilators
It blocks the intracellular enzyme (phosphodiesterases) followed by increase in level of messenger known as cyclic adenosine monophosphate, which promotes relaxation of bronchial muscles
It inhibits the release of certain inflammatory chemicals (leukotrienes, tumor necrosis factor etc) in the lungs thereby reducing inflammation
It also reduces thickness of the mucus, thus making it easy for the patient to clear the mucus load
Dosage
For COPD and bronchial asthma -100 mg twice daily
Side Effects
Belly pain
heartburn
loss of appetite
diarrhea
vomiting
Warnings/Precautions
Acebrophylline should be preferably taken after meals to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort
Inform your doctor if you are on therapy with other medications such as frusimide, reserpine, barbiturates or phenytoin
Inform your doctor if you have any nervous system disorders like epilepsy and are taking any therapy for the same