Therapeutic AreaFormulary ChoicesCost for 28
(unless otherwise stated)
Rationale for decision / comments
3.7 Mucolytics
MucolyticsCarbocisteine
375mg capsules: £5.08 (120)
250mg/5ml liquid: £8.55 (300ml)
750mg/10ml oral solution sachets £3.85 (15 x 10ml)
Do not routinely use to prevent exacerbations.
Carbocisteine can be considered in patients with COPD with copious or tenacious sputum. Trial carbocisteine 750mg tds for 4 weeks and stop if ineffective. If effective reduce to bd.

Dose: initially 2.25g daily in divided doses, then 1.5g daily in divided doses as condition improves.


Erdocysteine is non-formulary
Acetylcysteine (N-acetylcysteine)
as NACSYS®
600mg effervescent tablets. One daily.
£5.50 (30)
Please do not use any other brand as at least 5 times the price.
Adult use only
Acetylcysteine 200mg sachets at tds work out at £337 per month