Increases serous mucus production and stimulates ciliary activity; activates lysosomal enzymes that break down mucopolysaccharide fibers in mucus, reducing viscosity and facilitating expectoration
At a glance
Class
Mucolytic / Expectorant
Storage
Below 25°C, protect from light
Dosing
Productive cough, bronchitis, respiratory tract mucus
Max dose
30 mg/dose; 60 mg/day
Duration: 5–14 days
Productive cough, respiratory mucus
Max dose
8 mg/dose; 16 mg/day
Duration: 5–14 days
Safety
Adverse effects
Common
GI upset
Nausea
Increased bronchial secretions (initially)
Serious
Allergic reactions (rare)
Respiratory statusCough character and frequencyGI tolerance
Interactions
No documented interactions.
Brands
International
Bisolvon
Boehringer Ingelheim
Bromhexine Injection (Vet)
Various
India
Bisolvon
Boehringer Ingelheim India
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Bromhexine?
Bromhexine is a mucolytic / expectorant used in pets. Increases serous mucus production and stimulates ciliary activity; activates lysosomal enzymes that break down mucopolysaccharide fibers in mucus, reducing viscosity and facilitating expectoration
›What is Bromhexine used for in pets?
Bromhexine is used in veterinary medicine for: Productive cough, bronchitis, respiratory tract mucus; Productive cough, respiratory mucus.
›What is the Bromhexine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Bromhexine is typically dosed as follows — Productive cough, bronchitis, respiratory tract mucus: 0.5–2 mg/kg PO BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Bromhexine dose for cats?
For cats, Bromhexine is typically dosed as follows — Productive cough, respiratory mucus: 0.5–1 mg/kg PO BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Bromhexine?
Common: GI upset, Nausea, Increased bronchial secretions (initially). Serious (call your vet immediately): Allergic reactions (rare).
›Does Bromhexine need a prescription?
Bromhexine is available over the counter. Even so, you should consult your veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.
References
CDSCO approvals (India) — 1
Levofloxacin +Bromhexine Oral Solution
M/S Venky's India Limited AHP Division, · Approved 03.01.2022
for treatment of sevre respiratory infections of the poultry caused by bacteria including mycoplasmosis infectious loryz
Source: CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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