AB-Flo-N for Asthma, COPD & Bronchitis – Uses, Dosage & Safety Tips

🌬️ AB-Flo-N Tablet – Breathe easier with trusted relief from asthma, COPD & bronchitis.

AB-Flo-N Tablet

💊 Type: Prescription Medicine

🏢 Manufacturer: Lupin Ltd

🧪 Composition: Acebrophylline (100mg) + Acetylcysteine (600mg)

🌡️ Storage: Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place

🔁 Similar Medicines: [Click here to view substitutes]

Product Introduction

AB-Flo-N Tablet is a specialized respiratory medication combining two powerful therapeutic agents: Acebrophylline (100mg) and Acetylcysteine (600mg). This dual-action formulation is designed to address multiple aspects of respiratory conditions, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, asthma, and other respiratory disorders characterized by excessive mucus production and bronchospasm.

Acebrophylline, a derivative of theophylline, functions as a bronchodilator with anti-inflammatory properties, working to relax airway muscles and improve breathing. Unlike traditional xanthine derivatives, it causes fewer cardiovascular side effects while maintaining high efficacy in improving pulmonary function. Acetylcysteine complements this action as a potent mucolytic agent that breaks down mucus proteins, thinning bronchial secretions and facilitating their clearance from the respiratory tract.

This combination therapy represents an advancement in respiratory care by simultaneously addressing airway constriction and mucus hypersecretion—two major components of respiratory distress. The synergistic action helps patients breathe more easily while reducing the viscosity of mucus, making it easier to expectorate and clear the airways. This dual approach is particularly beneficial for patients with conditions where both bronchospasm and mucus accumulation contribute to symptoms.

AB-Flo-N is typically prescribed for patients who have not responded adequately to single-agent therapy or who present with complex respiratory symptoms requiring multi-faceted treatment. The tablet formulation provides convenience for patients, improving treatment adherence compared to multiple separate medications. Regular use as prescribed can significantly improve lung function parameters, reduce exacerbation frequency, and enhance overall quality of life for patients with chronic respiratory conditions.

Healthcare providers must carefully evaluate patients' medical history before prescribing AB-Flo-N, as the combination therapy requires appropriate monitoring and may interact with other medications. The dosage is typically individualized based on the severity of symptoms and patient response, with regular follow-up to assess effectiveness and adjust treatment as needed.

Key Composition & Ingredients

• Active Ingredients:
  • Acebrophylline 100mg - A bronchodilator with anti-inflammatory properties
  • Acetylcysteine 600mg - A mucolytic agent that breaks down mucus
• Inactive Ingredients: May include microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, and other pharmaceutical excipients

Uses of AB-Flo-N Tablet

• Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Treatment of chronic bronchitis
• Adjunctive therapy in bronchial asthma
• Management of mucus hypersecretion in respiratory tract disorders
• Treatment of acute exacerbations of chronic respiratory conditions
• Supportive therapy in bronchiectasis
• Treatment of respiratory conditions with thick, tenacious sputum

Benefits of AB-Flo-N Tablet

• Dual action for improved breathing and mucus clearance
• Reduces frequency and severity of coughing episodes
• Decreases viscosity of bronchial secretions for easier expectoration
• Improves lung function parameters (FEV1, FVC)
• Reduces inflammation in the airways
• Decreases frequency of acute exacerbations
• Enhances effectiveness of respiratory physiotherapy
• Improves quality of life in patients with chronic respiratory conditions
• May reduce need for rescue medications

How AB-Flo-N Tablet Works (Mechanism of Action)

AB-Flo-N combines two therapeutic agents with complementary mechanisms:

1. Acebrophylline (100mg):

   • Inhibits phosphodiesterase enzymes, increasing intracellular cAMP levels
   • Relaxes bronchial smooth muscles, resulting in bronchodilation
   • Reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators
   • Enhances mucociliary clearance and improves diaphragm contractility
   • Stimulates surfactant production, improving lung compliance

2. Acetylcysteine (600mg):

   • Acts as a mucolytic by breaking disulfide bonds between mucin molecules
   • Reduces viscosity of mucus secretions, making them easier to clear
   • Possesses antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals
   • Replenishes glutathione levels, protecting against oxidative damage
   • May have additional anti-inflammatory effects

Dosage of AB-Flo-N Tablet

• Standard Adult Dosage: Typically one tablet once or twice daily, depending on severity of condition
• Duration: As prescribed by physician, usually for 7-14 days for acute conditions or longer for chronic management
• Timing: Best taken after meals to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort
• Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered if within a few hours; otherwise, skip and continue regular schedule
• Overdose: Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, or headache; seek immediate medical attention

Mode of Action of AB-Flo-N Tablet

The combination therapy in AB-Flo-N works through multiple pathways:

• Acebrophylline improves bronchodilation through phosphodiesterase inhibition while reducing airway inflammation
• Acetylcysteine directly breaks down mucus structure while providing antioxidant protection to respiratory tissues
• Together, they improve airflow while simultaneously enhancing mucus clearance, addressing both major components of respiratory distress

How to Use AB-Flo-N Tablet

• Take exactly as prescribed by your physician
• Swallow tablet whole with a full glass of water
• Take after meals to reduce stomach irritation
• Maintain adequate hydration throughout the day to optimize mucolytic effects
• Do not crush or chew the tablet unless specifically instructed
• Complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve
• Take at the same time(s) each day to maintain consistent blood levels

Side Effects of AB-Flo-N Tablet

Common side effects:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, indigestion, stomach discomfort)
• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Mild headache
• Dizziness
• Unpleasant taste (particularly from acetylcysteine component)

Serious side effects (require immediate medical attention):

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
• Bronchospasm (paradoxical reaction)
• Significant gastrointestinal bleeding
• Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
• Severe epigastric pain
• Hemoptysis (blood in sputum)

Safety Advice for AB-Flo-N Tablet

• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol as it may increase risk of gastric irritation
• Pregnancy: Category C - Use only if potential benefits outweigh risks
• Breastfeeding: Use caution; consult doctor before use while breastfeeding
• Driving: May cause dizziness; assess individual response before driving
• Kidney Function: Use with caution in renal impairment; dosage adjustment may be needed
• Liver Function: Use with caution in patients with liver disease
• Children: Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric populations
• Older Patients: May be more sensitive to side effects; careful monitoring advised
• Allergies: Avoid if allergic to acetylcysteine, acebrophylline, or any components

Warnings & Precautions for AB-Flo-N Tablet

• History of peptic ulcer disease or gastroesophageal reflux
• Asthmatic patients with bronchospasm tendencies
• Patients with history of hemoptysis
• Patients with cardiac rhythm disorders
• Those with severe liver or kidney dysfunction
• Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance
• Diabetic patients (monitor blood glucose levels)
• History of hypersensitivity to xanthine derivatives

Interactions with AB-Flo-N Tablet

Drug Interactions:

• Theophylline and other xanthines: May increase risk of side effects
• Antibiotics: Acetylcysteine may affect absorption of certain antibiotics
• Anticoagulants: Potential increased bleeding risk
• Activated charcoal: May reduce absorption and effectiveness
• Nitrates: Acetylcysteine may enhance vasodilatory effects
• Beta-blockers: May reduce bronchodilatory effects of acebrophylline
• Corticosteroids: Monitor for increased side effects

Food Interactions:

• High-fat meals may delay absorption
• Caffeine may enhance certain side effects

Contraindications of AB-Flo-N Tablet

• Hypersensitivity to acebrophylline, acetylcysteine, or any components
• Active peptic ulcer disease
• Recent gastrointestinal bleeding
• Severe bronchial asthma with acute bronchospasm
• Severe hepatic insufficiency
• Severe renal impairment
• Patients with recent myocardial infarction

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

• Maintain adequate hydration (at least 8 glasses of water daily)
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke exposure
• Minimize exposure to air pollutants and allergens
• Practice breathing exercises as recommended by your healthcare provider
• Follow pulmonary rehabilitation programs if prescribed
• Consider humidification of home environment
• Maintain good nutritional status with a balanced diet
• Avoid excessive caffeine intake

Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine

Physicians recommend AB-Flo-N when patients require dual-action therapy for respiratory conditions with both bronchoconstriction and excessive mucus production. The combination offers more comprehensive symptom relief than either medication alone and simplifies the treatment regimen with fewer pills, potentially improving adherence.

Substitutes of AB-Flo-N Tablet & Alternative Medicines

• Acebrophylline and Acetylcysteine as separate medications
• Combination of salbutamol and acetylcysteine
• Combination of theophylline and ambroxol
• Bromhexine with bronchodilators
• Erdosteine with bronchodilators
• Montelukast with mucolytics
• Doxofylline with acetylcysteine

Storage Guidelines

• Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F)
• Keep away from direct light and moisture
• Keep in original packaging until time of use
• Store in a cool, dry place
• Keep out of reach of children
• Check expiration date before use

Quick Tips for AB-Flo-N Tablet

• Take consistently at the same time each day
• Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus
• Complete the full prescribed course of medication
• Report any unusual side effects to your doctor promptly
• Do not increase dosage without medical consultation
• Keep track of symptom improvements for follow-up discussions

Fact Box

• Chemical Class: Xanthine derivative (Acebrophylline) + Amino acid derivative (Acetylcysteine)
• Habit Forming: No
• Therapeutic Class: Bronchodilator + Mucolytic
• Action Class: Phosphodiesterase inhibitor + Mucolytic agent

Useful Diagnostic Tests

• Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs)
• Chest X-ray
• Sputum culture and sensitivity
• Complete blood count
• Liver function tests
• Renal function tests
• Arterial blood gas analysis in severe cases

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment regimen. Individual responses to medication may vary.