Expectorant effect (ammonium chloride)

Ammonium chloride (NH₄Cl) is an inorganic compound used medicinally as an expectorant. Its mechanism of action involves irritating the bronchial mucosa, stimulating increased respiratory fluid production to thin and mobilize mucus, facilitating its expulsion via coughing. It is also used to treat metabolic alkalosis and hypochloremia. While effective as an expectorant, potential safety concerns include systemic acidification and ammonia toxicity, particularly in individuals with impaired liver or kidney function.

Other names

Ammonium chlorideNH₄Cl

Irritation of bronchial mucosa leading to increased respiratory fluid production, liquefying and mobilizing mucus for easier expectoration.