Erdosteine
Erdosteine is a mucolytic agent used to treat respiratory conditions characterized by excessive or thick mucus production, such as acute and chronic bronchitis and COPD. It works by breaking down the structure of mucus, making it thinner and easier to clear from the airways. This medication is typically prescribed to improve breathing and reduce cough symptoms in patients with respiratory tract disorders.
Erdosteine is a mucolytic medication used to treat respiratory conditions with excessive mucus by thinning and loosening secretions to ease breathing.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- R05CB15
- RxNorm
- 24305
- Generic
- Erdosteine
- Class
- atc-r05
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Erdosteine is used to treat acute and chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions involving thick, viscous mucus. It helps relieve symptoms such as productive cough and difficulty breathing associated with these conditions.
Erdosteine acts as a mucolytic agent by breaking disulfide bonds in the glycoprotein structure of mucus. This reduces mucus viscosity and elasticity, making secretions thinner and easier to expectorate, thereby improving airway clearance.
Erdosteine is generally well-tolerated but may cause mild gastrointestinal effects. It should be used with caution in patients with peptic ulcers. The medication is typically taken orally with adequate fluids. Patients should follow their healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy