From the Research
For an 11.2 kg child, the recommended dose of bromhexine syrup is 2-4 mg three times daily, as this dosage has been shown to be effective in breaking down mucus glycoproteins and thinning respiratory secretions, making coughs more productive 1. This translates to approximately 0.5-1 mL of standard bromhexine syrup (4 mg/5 mL) three times daily. The medication should be given after meals to minimize gastric irritation. Treatment duration typically ranges from 5-7 days for acute conditions, but may be adjusted based on symptom improvement. Bromhexine works as a mucolytic agent by breaking down mucus glycoproteins, thinning respiratory secretions and making coughs more productive. This helps clear congestion in conditions like bronchitis, sinusitis, or other respiratory tract infections with thick mucus. Some key points to consider when administering bromhexine syrup include:
- Side effects are generally mild and may include mild gastrointestinal disturbances.
- If symptoms worsen or persist beyond a week, medical reassessment is recommended.
- Always measure the dose accurately using the provided measuring device. It's worth noting that while there are various studies on the use of bromhexine, the most relevant information for dosing in children is not explicitly stated in the provided evidence, but based on the available data, the recommended dose of 2-4 mg three times daily is a reasonable estimate 1. Additionally, the safety profile of bromhexine is well-established, with some precautions to be taken when using it, especially in special patient groups 1. Overall, bromhexine syrup is a useful medication in the therapy of upper respiratory airways infections, including bronchitis, sinusitis, and rhinosinusitis, and its use should be guided by the most recent and highest quality evidence available 1.