Last updated on March 26, 2022
Viscoflu is a single-use CE medical device indicated during treatment of respiratory diseases featuring dense and viscous hypersecretion: acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis and its complications, pulmonary emphysema, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis, sinusitis, secretory otitis.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Viscoflu thins dense and viscous mucus through the physical/ mechanical action of its ingredients:
– sterile buffered hypertonic solution of sodium chloride: hypertonic saline solutions applied directly to a mucus membrane by osmosis draw water from the intracellular to the extracellular compartment. This increases the
percentage of water in the mucus lining the epithelium, thinning it and facilitating its removal;
– N-acetylcysteine (NAC): acetylated amino acid cysteine variant, exerts a mucolytic activity by direct contact with the mucus. This activity depends on the presence in the molecule of sulphhydryl radicals capable of breaking
the disulfide bonds of the mucoproteins that give mucus viscosity, depolymerising it. NAC also has an antioxidant action that helps preserve the tropism of the respiratory epithelia.
COMPOSITION
One 5 ml vial contains: N-acetylcysteine 300 mg, sodium chloride 150 mg. Excipients: sodium hydroxide, sodium edetate, water for injectable preparations.
METHOD OF USE
Viscoflu is a sterile solution that can be:
– nebulized by aerosol dispensers to be inhaled in order to reach the bronchial region;
– directly instilled by ear and nose wash;
– instilled at the endobronchial level through permanent catheters, bronchoscopy, etc.;
DOSE, METHOD AND TIME OF ADMINISTRATION
– Aerosol administration: nebulize one vial per session with 1-2 sessions per day over 5-10 days. The frequency and doses of sessions can be modified by the doctor over a wide range with respect to the clinical and therapeutic effect without the need to significantly differentiate the doses for adults or children.
– Instillation and ear washing and other cavities: ½ vial or 1 vial per application.
– Endotracheal-bronchial instillations: 1 vial per application, 1-2 times per day or according to need.
OVERDOSE
Excessive doses of Viscoflu by inhalation and endotracheal-bronchial instillation could lead to massive and excessive fluid secretions that, in patients with depression of the cough reflex and expectoration in particular, may make bronchoalveolar lavage necessary.
Storage. It is recommended to open the Viscoflu vial just before use: open vials can be used only when stored in a refrigerator for a maximum of 24 hours. If the solution has been mixed with other drugs, it should be used in the shortest possible time and cannot be stored. The expiry date printed on the packaging refers to the unopened pack, correctly stored. Do not use Viscoflu after the expiry date printed on the packaging. Keep it out of the reach and sight of children.
Contents of the pack. Wallet containing 10 vials of 5 ml each
Side-effects, precautions and interactions
Due to the high salt concentration of the solution, the use of Viscoflu can induce occasional localised irritation phenomena that can cause bronchospasm, burning sensation in the nasal mucosa, rhinorrhea, nausea, vomiting.
Among these effects, the induction of the cough reflex within tolerable limits is to be welcomed as it promotes expectoration and unblocking of airways.
The side effects of Viscoflu usually disappear spontaneously by discontinuing treatment. If they do not disappear, consult your doctor.
Following the instructions in the leaflet reduces the risk of side effects.
Warnings and precautions
Hypersensitivity to the active ingredients or to any of the excipients. Viscoflu is contraindicated in children under 2 years of age. Viscoflu should only be administered during pregnancy and breastfeeding if it is absolutely necessary and under the direct supervision of a doctor.
Full information leaflet can be downloaded HERE > Viscoflu 5ml vials full information
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