AB Flo Capsule (15 Cap)

AB Flo Capsule Overview:

AB Flo Capsule is a combination mucolytic and bronchodilator medication primarily used to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and prevent symptoms of bronchial asthma and bronchitis.

It contains Acebrophylline, a unique compound that combines the properties of ambroxol (a mucolytic agent) and theophylline (a bronchodilator), by thinning the mucus in the airways while simultaneously relaxing the muscles of the lungs. It significantly improves airflow, making breathing easier.

Composition:

Each hard gelatin capsule contains- Acebrophylline: 100 mg

Capsule shell colours: Brilliant Blue FCF & Titanium Dioxide.

(Sodium Methylparaben & Sodium Propylparaben used as preservatives)

Uses & Benefits of AB Flo Capsule:

AB Flo Capsule is a combination mucolytic and bronchodilator used to improve breathing in chronic respiratory conditions.

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – managed to prevent and reduce symptoms like breathlessness and mucus buildup.
• Bronchial Asthma – helps relieve and control symptoms such as wheezing and airway constriction.
• Bronchitis – aids in reducing cough and clearing excess mucus from the airways.

How Does AB Flo Capsule Work:

AB Flo Capsule contains Acebrophylline as its active ingredient, which works through a dual-action mechanism.

As a mucolytic (mucus-thinning) agent, it works by breaking the chemical bonds within the thick mucus. This process reduces the viscosity of the phlegm, making it thinner and easier for the patient to expectorate (cough out). Simultaneously, as a bronchodilator (airway relaxant), it relaxes the smooth muscles surrounding the bronchial tubes and inhibits specific inflammatory pathways. This combined action widens the air passages, reduces inflammation, and significantly improves airflow to the lungs.

Dosage of AB Flo Capsule:

• Usage Direction

AB Flo Capsule should be taken strictly as per the doctor’s advice, following the prescribed dose and timing. AB Flo Capsule should be swallowed whole with water and do not crush, chew or break the capsule. Take AB Flo Capsule preferably at the same time each day. Do not stop or alter the dose of AB Flo without consulting your doctor, as this may prevent you from achieving the desired outcome. If you are unsure about the administration procedures of this medication, consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

• Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of AB Flo Capsule, take it as soon as you remember on the same day. But, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the one you missed and continue following your regular dosing schedule. Do not attempt to take two doses if you have forgotten one. If you often forget to take your medication, consult with your doctor to re-evaluate your dosing schedule. Frequently missing doses could lead to undesired outcomes.

You can set reminders on your smartphone, keep drug organizer boxes, or use other audio-visual technologies to prevent missing a dose.

• Overdose

If you accidentally take AB Flo Capsule more than your prescribed dose, seek immediate medical advice. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, severe vomiting, stomach upset, and restlessness.

Contraindications of AB Flo Capsule:

Do not use AB Flo Capsule if you are allergic or hypersensitive to Acebrophylline, Ambroxol, Theophylline, other xanthine derivatives, or any component of this medicine.

AB Flo Capsule should be avoided in patients who have recently suffered from an acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), hypotension (low blood pressure), unstable blood circulation, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), and severe liver or kidney impairment.

Precautions & Warnings of AB Flo Capsule:

Before taking AB Flo Capsule, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of congestive heart failure, liver dysfunction, chronic alcoholism, or viral infections, as these conditions can significantly alter how the body processes the medication.

Use caution in patients with a history of peptic ulcers or duodenal ulcers, hypertension, and other cardiovascular diseases. Close monitoring is important for individuals with hyperthyroidism or cardiac arrhythmias.

Additionally, patients with seizure disorders (epilepsy) should use this medication under strict medical supervision, as bronchodilators can occasionally lower the seizure threshold. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider if you have underlying liver or kidney impairment, as dosage adjustments may be necessary to prevent the drug from accumulating in the system.

Side Effects of AB Flo Capsule:

AB Flo Capsule may cause some side effects, most of which are mild to moderate and usually disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. Common symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, stomach or abdominal distension, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, heartburn, vomiting, loss of appetite, esophageal bleeding, rashes or itching, urticaria, drowsiness, breathing difficulty, leukocytosis, and nasal inflammation.

Some rare side effects that require immediate medical attention include headache, insomnia, numbness, fatigue, tachycardia, hypertension, albuminuria, glycosuria, hypotension, and hyperglycemia. Consult your healthcare provider immediately.

Safety Related Concerns of AB Flo Capsule:

• Pregnancy

AB Flo Capsule is not recommended during pregnancy, unless clearly necessary and prescribed by a doctor. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before taking this medication to weigh the benefits against potential risks to the developing baby.

• Breastfeeding

It is better to avoid the use of the AB Flo Capsule while breastfeeding, since it is unknown whether the ingredients could pass into the breast milk and affect the breastfed child. Therefore, consulting with your doctor before taking AB Flo Capsule is crucial.

• Alcohol

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking AB Flo Capsule, as it may increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness.

• Food Interactions

AB Flo Capsule can be taken with or after a meal, as prescribed by your physician, to reduce gastric irritation. In general, most foods are safe, but it's best to limit your intake of caffeine (found in coffee, tea, and chocolate), as it may increase the stimulant effect of the medication.

• Drug Interactions

AB Flo Capsule can interact with various medications, either by changing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of toxicity. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you are taking antibiotics such as erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, amoxicillin, or doxycycline, as well as other agents like allopurinol (for gout), cimetidine (for acidity), thiabendazole, or calcium channel blockers like diltiazem and verapamil. These substances can inhibit the metabolism of Acebrophylline, leading to an increased concentration of the drug in the bloodstream and a higher risk of adverse effects. Additionally, the use of oral contraceptives or the diuretic frusemide may necessitate careful dosage monitoring.

Furthermore, AB Flo Capsule may interact with Beta2-agonists, steroids, and diuretics. When used simultaneously, especially in the presence of hypoxia (low oxygen levels), these combinations can lead to hypokalaemia (critically low potassium levels in the blood). Consequently, regular monitoring of serum potassium levels is essential for patients on these combination therapies to prevent cardiac or muscular complications.

Always inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

• Using Machinery & Driving

There is no significant impact on the ability to drive or operate machinery while taking AB Flo Capsule. However, if you experience dizziness or drowsiness, then avoid such activities.

Storage of AB Flo Capsule:

Store protected from light & moisture, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid using it after the expiry date, printed on the packaging. Dispose of expired or unused medication properly; do not throw it away casually.

Additional Information:

• Maintaining healthy lifestyle and environmental changes, especially quitting smoking, helps improve the effectiveness of the medicine.
• Maintaining optimal hydration by drinking plenty of water is also critical, as it supports the mucolytic action of the medication, making it easier to thin and expectorate phlegm.
• Practicing "pursed-lip breathing" can help manage breathlessness if suggested by the doctor.
• Avoid known triggers, including dust, strong perfumes, smoke, and industrial pollutants, which can precipitate an acute respiratory attack.
• Do not suddenly stop your medication unless your doctor specifically tells you to.
• Do not share your medicine with someone else having the same symptoms as you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q. Why is AB Flo Capsule prescribed?

A. AB Flo Capsule is primarily prescribed for the long-term treatment and prevention of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is also used to manage and prevent symptoms of bronchial asthma, such as wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. By acting as both a bronchodilator and a mucus-thinning agent, it helps keep the airways open and clear of thick secretions.

Q. Is AB Flo Capsule a steroid?

A. No, AB Flo Capsule is not a steroid. It contains Acebrophylline, a derivative of xanthine, which belongs to a different class of respiratory medications. It combines two distinctive properties, such as bronchodilator and mucolytic.

Q. Can I take AB Flo Capsule for common cold?

A. AB Flo Capsule is specifically used for treating chronic respiratory conditions. So, it is best that you consult a doctor if you have other medical conditions before taking the medicine.

No, AB Flo Capsule should not be used for a common cold. It is mainly prescribed for conditions like asthma or chronic bronchitis where there is airway obstruction and excess mucus. Always consult a doctor before using it, as it is a prescription medication.

Q. Is AB Flo Capsule a rescue inhaler?

A. No, AB Flo Capsule is not a rescue inhaler. It is an oral medication used for long-term management of asthma or bronchitis. Rescue inhalers act quickly during sudden breathing difficulty, whereas AB Flo works slowly and cannot provide immediate relief in acute attacks.

Q. Does the medicine causes drowsiness?

A. Yes, AB Flo Capsule may have certain side effect among which, some patients might experience drowsiness. However, if the symptoms persist seek immediate medical advice.

Q. Can I take AB Flo Capsule with antibiotics?

A. AB Flo Capsule can be taken with antibiotics if prescribed by a doctor, as they are often used together in respiratory infections, antibiotics treat the infection while AB Flo helps clear mucus and improve breathing. However, some antibiotics like erythromycin may increase its blood levels, so medical consultation is essential to avoid interactions and side effects.

References:

1. MUCOPHYLIN Capsules. Acebrophylline. Prescribing information. Last Revised: November 2013. Accessed on: 16th April 2026. Click Here

2. BROPHYLE CAPSULE Leaflet. Accessed on: 16th April 2026. Click Here

3. Acebrophylline. Accessed on: 16th April 2026. Click Here