INN monograph
Ambroxol HCL, Salbutamol, Guaiphenesin, Menthol flavor
Beta-2 adrenergic agonist (bronchodilator) · POM
Verified · Updated 01 Aug 2026 · Source: Local active-ingredient clinical extract; PubChem; Professional class pharmacology (Beta-2 adrenergic agonist (bronchodilator))
Kenya market
Wholesale / list prices where loaded
Risk first
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity.
- LABA monotherapy in asthma is contraindicated — always with ICS.
Precautions
- Paradoxical bronchospasm.
- Hypokalaemia with high dose/nebs especially with steroids/diuretics/xanthines.
- CV disease: tachycardia/arrhythmia risk.
- Thyrotoxicosis caution.
Point of care
Dosing
Adult
Dosing is indication-, age-, weight- and organ-function-specific for this INN. Do not use class averages for high-risk patients. Confirm the exact regimen in the current SmPC and Kenya Standard Treatment Guidelines. Typical professional workflow: (1) confirm indication, (2) check renal/hepatic function, (3) screen interactions/allergies, (4) select dose/route/duration, (5) define monitoring.
Paediatric
Paediatric dosing is weight- and age-based; use a paediatric formulary / SmPC. Do not extrapolate adult tablets without calculation.
Renal
Low for inhaled; monitor electrolytes if continuous nebs.
- CrCl 0–120: Confirm renal dosing in product SmPC / primary label.
Hepatic
Low clinical concern for inhaled therapy.
Safety
Drug interactions
- Assess inhaler technique every visit.
- Increasing SABA use = uncontrolled disease — step up controller therapy.
- Never prescribe LABA alone for asthma.
Safety
Adverse effects
- Tremor, tachycardia, headache, palpitations, hypokalaemia, hyperglycaemia.
- Serious: arrhythmias, paradoxical bronchospasm.
Use
Indications
- Productive cough that is associated with bronchospasm such as bronchitis, bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis and emphysema.
- Clinical selection for Ambroxol HCL, Salbutamol, Guaiphenesin, Menthol flavor should follow culture results where relevant, Kenya STG/EML recommendations, and the current product SmPC.
- Class context: Beta-2 adrenergic agonist (bronchodilator).
- Confirm site-specific dose, duration and monitoring before prescribing.
Pharmacology
Mode of action
Stimulate airway smooth muscle beta-2 receptors, increasing cAMP and causing bronchodilation.
Full mechanism text
Stimulate airway smooth muscle beta-2 receptors, increasing cAMP and causing bronchodilation. Also improve mucociliary clearance and may stabilise mast cells. SABA for rescue; LABA for maintenance with ICS.
ADME
Pharmacokinetics & PD
| Onset | Minutes (SABA) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3–6 h SABA; 12 h LABA |
| Route | INHALATION / ORAL / NEB / IV (rare) |
| Absorption | causes tremor/tachycardia. Hepatic |
| Metabolism | of many agents. |
Kenya
Brands & prices
| Brand | Company | Pack | KES |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kofarest | Centaur Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | Standard Commercial Pack | 162.65 |
Special populations
Pregnancy & lactation
Pregnancy
Inhaled salbutamol widely used; uncontrolled asthma risk > drug risk.
Lactation
Inhaled therapy generally compatible.
Diet
Food & alcohol
- Food
- Food
Trust
Sources & disclaimer
Source: Local active-ingredient clinical extract; PubChem; Professional class pharmacology (Beta-2 adrenergic agonist (bronchodilator))
Last reviewed: 01 Aug 2026
Decision support only — not a substitute for clinical judgment, product SmPC, or Kenya STG/EML.