Askorel Paediatric Drops

Indications

Askorel is prescribed to alleviate dry, non-productive cough, often resulting from recent viral infections. It is also effective for sedating coughs before and after surgeries or bronchoscopy. Additionally, it helps manage acute coughs from various causes, including whooping cough and coughs linked to acute lower respiratory tract infections like tracheitis, laryngitis, and bronchitis.

Pharmacology

Butamirate Citrate, the active component in Askorel, directly targets the brain’s cough center to suppress cough reflexes. It is a non-sedating agent, unrelated to opium alkaloids either chemically or pharmacologically. After oral intake, Butamirate Citrate is rapidly absorbed, achieving peak concentration within 9 hours when taken in sustained-release form. It is highly protein-bound, with a plasma elimination half-life of approximately 13 hours. The active metabolites of Butamirate Citrate also possess cough-suppressing properties.

Dosage & Administration

For Adults:

• Butamirate Citrate 50 mg tablets: Take 2-3 tablets daily.
• Butamirate Citrate syrup: Consume 15 ml four times daily.

For Children & Adolescents:

• Butamirate Citrate 50 mg tablets (for those over 12 years old): Take 1-2 tablets daily.
• Butamirate Citrate syrup:
  • Ages 3-6 years: 5 ml three times daily.
  • Ages 6-12 years: 10 ml three times daily.
  • Adolescents: 15 ml three times daily.
• Butamirate Citrate pediatric drops:
  • Ages 2 months to 1 year: 0.50 ml four times daily.
  • Ages 1-3 years: 0.75 ml four times daily.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice for dosage adjustments.

Drug Interactions

Concurrent use with expectorants should be avoided to prevent conflicting effects.

Contraindications

Avoid Askorel if allergic to Butamirate Citrate or any of its components.

Side Effects

Askorel is generally well-tolerated. However, rare side effects like rashes, nausea, diarrhea, or dizziness may occur. These symptoms often resolve after adjusting the dosage or discontinuing the treatment.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Butamirate Citrate is not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy. For the remaining months, use is permitted under medical supervision. Breastfeeding mothers should carefully weigh the benefits and risks, as there is insufficient data on the excretion of Butamirate Citrate into breast milk.

Precautions & Warnings

Askorel suppresses the cough reflex; therefore, combining it with expectorants may lead to mucus buildup in the airways, increasing the risk of bronchospasm and respiratory infections. If the cough persists beyond 7 days (or 3 days in children under 12), consult a healthcare provider.

Overdose

Symptoms of an Askorel overdose include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Immediate treatment should involve standard emergency measures such as activated charcoal, saline laxatives, and cardio-respiratory support.

Therapeutic Class

Cough suppressant.

Storage Instructions

Store Askorel in a cool, dry place away from light, at temperatures below 30°C. Keep out of the reach of children.