Mucus Hypersecretion Opens the Door to Worsening COPD
Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exhibit airway mucus hypersecretion, including sputum production, increased luminal mucus, goblet cell hyperplasia and submucosal gland hypertrophy. These processes have been shown to contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality in patients with COPD, especially in older patients and those who are prone to respiratory tract infection. N-acetylcysteine is a classic antioxidant that can reduce mucus viscosity and promote mucus discharge.
Modern Medicine – Issue 2 2023
