Mucoactive Agents

Question 1

Mucus

Answer 1

• Composed of a gel layer and a sol layer
• Certain disease processes and substances slow the velocity of mucociliary transport which leads to increased sputum production and buildup

Question 2

Acetylcysteine

Answer 2

(MucoMyst)

• comes in 10% and 20% concentrations
• breaks disulfide bonds that connect mucin proteins
• last resort for copious sputum production - not beneficial and causes bronchospasm

Question 3

Dornase Alfa

Answer 3

(Pulmozyme)

• indicated only for clearance of purulent secretions in cystic fibrosis patients
• breaks down DNA polymers in sputum

Question 4

HyperTonic Saline

Answer 4

(HyperSal)

• comes in 3% and 7% concentrations
• 7% used for CF
• 3% used for bronchiolitis
• irritates airway to promote cough and move secretions