Alcof EXP 100ml

Pronunciation

• AL-kof E-X-P

Trade Name

• Alcof EXP

Classification

• Therapeutic: Expectorant
• Pharmacologic: Combination of expectorant, antitussive, and/or antihistamine

Pregnancy Category

• Category C (general classification, specific product components may vary)

Indications

• Relief of cough and related symptoms associated with colds, upper respiratory tract infections, or allergies.
• Helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to make coughs more productive.

Mechanism of Action

• Expectorant (e.g., Guaifenesin): Helps thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up the phlegm.
• Antitussive (if present, e.g., Dextromethorphan): Suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the cough center in the medulla of the brain.
• Antihistamine (if present, e.g., Chlorpheniramine): Reduces allergy symptoms by blocking histamine receptors.

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
• Distribution: Distributed widely throughout the body.
• Metabolism: Metabolized primarily in the liver.
• Excretion: Excreted primarily in the urine.
• Half-life: Varies based on the active ingredients (e.g., Guaifenesin has a half-life of about 1 hour).

Contraindications and Precautions

• Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation; use with caution in patients with chronic cough due to smoking, asthma, or emphysema.
• Precautions: Use with caution in patients with liver disease, chronic bronchitis, or a history of drug abuse. Avoid using in children under 6 years without medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

• Common: Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Serious: Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling), difficulty breathing, hallucinations (with high doses of dextromethorphan), serotonin syndrome (when combined with other serotonergic drugs).

Interactions

• Drug-Drug: May interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and other CNS depressants. Can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with serotonergic drugs.
• Food: Generally, no significant interactions, but alcohol should be avoided due to increased risk of CNS depression.

Route/Dosage

• Oral (Syrup):
  • Adults: The typical dose varies based on the specific active ingredients. For example, a common dose for guaifenesin is 200-400 mg every 4 hours as needed.
  • Pediatric Dosage: Should be determined by a healthcare professional based on age and weight.

Availability Formulations

• Alcof EXP Syrup: Available in 100 ml bottles as an oral syrup. Shake well before use.