Fluimucil is a mucolytic medicine whose active substance is acetylcysteine. It is mainly used to facilitate the removal of secretions in the respiratory tract, making it an effective treatment for conditions where there is a build-up of thick or dense mucus, such as the common cold, chronic bronchitis and other respiratory diseases that produce excess phlegm. Acetylcysteine works by breaking the protein bonds that make up mucus, making it easier to cough up, thereby improving breathing.
Fluimucil comes in various forms, including effervescent tablets, sachets to dissolve in water, and even solutions for nebulisation, allowing it to be tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
Acetylcysteine, the active ingredient in Fluimucil, is a potent mucolytic agent that acts directly on thick, sticky mucus. It breaks down the disulphide bridges that hold the glycoproteins in the mucus together, reducing its viscosity and making it easier to expel. This mechanism is particularly useful in conditions such as bronchitis, where the airways become clogged with phlegm, or in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
In addition to its mucolytic function, acetylcysteine also has antioxidant properties. It helps to increase levels of glutathione, a key molecule in cellular protection against oxidative damage, giving it an important role in defending against lung damage caused by pollution or tobacco smoke.
Fluimucil is indicated in a wide range of respiratory conditions, both acute and chronic, where mucus clearance is required. These conditions include:
In patients with these conditions, the use of Fluimucil helps to clear the airways, easing breathing and reducing cough associated with the build-up of secretions. It can be administered orally or by inhalation, depending on the severity of the condition and medical advice.
In addition to its use in respiratory conditions, acetylcysteine is a treatment of choice for paracetamol poisoning. In these cases, acetylcysteine acts as an antidote to protect the liver from the toxic effects of paracetamol, preventing serious damage. For this use, acetylcysteine is usually administered intravenously in a hospital setting, under medical supervision.