what is an expectorant

An expectorant is a type of cough medicine that helps clear mucus from the airway. It is used to treat the symptoms of respiratory tract infections such as the common cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Expectorants are available as standalone drugs or as an ingredient in all-in-one cold and flu medications. They work by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear out the throat. Expectorants do not stop coughing, but rather make it more productive by helping to remove excess mucus, foreign particles, or microorganisms from the airways. It is important to note that a productive cough should not be suppressed because it is the bodys way of removing excess mucus.