Carbocisteine

Carbocisteine is a mucolytic agent that alters the structure of mucus by breaking disulfide bonds, thereby reducing its viscosity and elasticity. This helps patients clear mucus from their airways more effectively, improving breathing and reducing cough severity in chronic respiratory conditions.

Dosage by Body Weight

Adults: Usually 750 mg three times daily initially, which may be reduced to 1.5 g daily in divided doses once a response is obtained. Children: Dosing is usually based on age or body weight, typically utilizing oral pediatric syrups (100 mg/5 mL or 250 mg/5 mL). Always consult a healthcare provider for precise dosing.

  1. Body Weight
    Below 5 kg
    Dose
    Not routine
    Frequency
    Use only if prescribed
    Tracking Notes
    Safety and efficacy in infants under 2 years of age have not been fully established. Use only under strict medical supervision.
  2. Body Weight
    5-7 kg
    Dose
    25 mg to 50 mg
    Frequency
    2 times daily
    Tracking Notes
    Typically administered as 1.25 mL to 2.5 mL of pediatric syrup (100 mg/5 mL). Consult a pediatrician before use.
  3. Body Weight
    8-10 kg
    Dose
    50 mg
    Frequency
    2 to 3 times daily
    Tracking Notes
    Equates to approximately 2.5 mL of pediatric syrup (100 mg/5 mL). Ensure child drinks plenty of water.
  4. Body Weight
    11-15 kg
    Dose
    50 mg to 100 mg
    Frequency
    3 times daily
    Tracking Notes
    Equates to 2.5 mL to 5 mL of pediatric syrup (100 mg/5 mL). Do not exceed recommended daily limit.
  5. Body Weight
    16-20 kg
    Dose
    100 mg
    Frequency
    3 times daily
    Tracking Notes
    Equates to 5 mL of pediatric syrup (100 mg/5 mL) or 2 mL of standard syrup (250 mg/5 mL).

Formulation

CapsuleSyrupOral DropsTablet

Purpose

Used as a mucolytic to reduce the viscosity of thick, sticky mucus in respiratory tract disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, and chronic bronchitis, making it easier to cough up.

Generic Name

Carbocisteine

Branded Drug Names

Carbocisteine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:

Scheduled Drug

No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.

Alternatives

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. WHO references and weight bands are simplified for tracking and must not replace medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication.