Expectorant Health Dictionary

Expectorant: From 4 Different Sources


A substance that stimulates the outflow of mucus from the lungs and bronchial mucosa.
Health Source: Herbal Medical
Author: Health Dictionary
Aiding the secretion of the mucous membrane of the air passages and the removal of fluid by spitting
Health Source: Medicinal Plants Glossary
Author: Health Dictionary
n. a drug that enhances the expulsion of sputum from the air passages. *Mucolytic expectorants act by decreasing the viscosity of the bronchial secretions so that they are easier to cough up. Drugs such as *ipecacuanha and ammonium chloride are claimed to be stimulant expectorants in small quantities: they irritate the lining of the stomach, which is said to provide a stimulus for the reflex production of sputum by the glands in the bronchial mucous membrane. At higher doses they produce vomiting.
Health Source: Oxford | Concise Colour Medical Dictionary
Author: Jonathan Law, Elizabeth Martin

Expectorants

Drugs which are claimed to help the removal of secretions from the AIR PASSAGES – although there is no convincing evidence that they do this. A simple expectorant may, however, be a useful placebo. Most preparations are available without a doctor’s prescription and pharmacists will advise on which might be helpful for particular patients with dry or congestive coughs.... expectorants



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