Bromohexine

Bromhexine should be avoided or used with caution in patients undergoing anaesthesia with cyclopropane, halothane or other halogenated anaesthetics, as it may induce ventricular fibrillation. An increased risk of arrhythmias may also occur if given to patients receiving cardiac glycosides, quinidine, or tricyclic antidepressants. Hypokalaemia may be induced by higher than recommended doses of beta-agonists, especially in patients receiving digitalis glycosides or diuretics, or those who are prone to cardiac dysrhythmias. Caution should be observed in patients with gastric ulcers due to the mucolytic action of bromhexine hydrochloride. In addition, care should be observed in patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases, i.e., ischaemic heart disease; arrhythmias or tachycardia; and occlusive vascular disorders, including arteriosclerosis, hypertension or aneurysms. Anginal pain may be precipitated in patients suffering from angina pectoris. Care is also required when bromhexine is given to patients with diabetes mellitus or closed-angle glaucoma. Caution is also needed in patients with convulsive disorders.