Mucolytic agents versus placebo for chronic bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Poole P, Sathananthan K, Fortescue R
Published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
Methodology
Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials comparing oral mucolytics, predominantly N-acetylcysteine and carbocisteine, with placebo for at least two months in chronic bronchitis or COPD.
Key Findings
Mucolytics produced a small reduction in the likelihood of exacerbations and in days of disability, with a low number needed to treat, though the effect size has diminished in more recent, larger and better-designed trials.
Conclusions
Mucolytics such as N-acetylcysteine modestly reduce COPD exacerbations with few adverse effects.
Limitations
Substantial heterogeneity; older trials inflate the effect; benefit smaller in patients already on inhaled therapy.
Supplements Studied
Mucolytics produced a small reduction in the likelihood of exacerbations and in days of disability in chronic bronchitis or COPD.
Outcomes Measured
Mucolytics produced a small reduction in exacerbations and days of disability in chronic bronchitis.
Mucolytic therapy reduced exacerbations and days of disability in chronic airway disease.
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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Disclosures
Funding
Cochrane Collaboration
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