The best remedies for pneumonia

Pneumonia is accompanied by inflammation of the lung tissue, which requires immediate treatment. This is one of the deadly diseases. Today this diagnosis sounds too often due to the coronavirus (covid 19) pandemic, so the question of the choice of medicines is more than relevant. There are many time-tested and new pharmacological preparations. The expertpro.techinfus.com/en/ project team conducted a number of studies, and a top rating was compiled. It includes the best pneumonia remedies of 2024, which have proven their effectiveness in the experience of patients with varying degrees of severity of the disease. The experience of doctors, clinical cases, recommendations of leading experts, customer reviews were taken into account. The review touched upon several groups of drugs - antibiotics, anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs), antiviral, antitussives, bronchodilators.

Rating of remedies for pneumonia

On consideration of the entire edition of the portal there were several dozen pharmacy products showing high demand. We managed to determine the nominees for the top rating on the basis of medical practice, recommendations of leading experts. We also evaluated each applicant for a number of characteristics:

• Group - antibiotics, NSAIDs, antiviral, antitussive, bronchodilators;
• The active substance is a synthetic, natural component, a combination;
• Release form - solid, liquid, powdery, for oral administration, externally;
• Indications - age, stage of development of the disease, the presence of complications;
• Treatment regimen - doses, frequency of administration, duration of the course, other nuances;
• Tolerability - bioavailability of the composition, the degree of digestibility, performance;
• Restrictions - states where reception is undesirable is strictly prohibited;
• Risks - the likelihood of side reactions of the body, allergies;
• Compatibility - with which drugs it is combined, with which it conflicts;
• Special instructions - recommendations for pregnant women, breastfeeding.

The great work of expertpro.techinfus.com/en/ helped to determine what drugs are used to treat pneumonia in adults and children. The review included only those drugs that have a clinical evidence base, positive experience in treating such a disease, the maximum percentage of approving responses from doctors and patients.

The best remedies for bronchitis

Antibiotics for pneumonia

Regardless of the severity of the disease, the symptoms, complications, the doctor begins treatment of pneumonia with antibiotics. The focus of inflammation is provoked by bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and other pathogens. Most often, the causative agent is staphylococcus, streptococcus, pneumococcus, moraxella, haemophilus influenzae. To eliminate them, antibiotics of a wide range of effects are selected. There were several dozen rating applicants for consideration, but 3 nominees with a wide range of actions and proven effectiveness were included.

Amoxiclav

The combined remedy Amoxiclav heads the list of antibiotics that treat pneumonia. It is scientifically proven that the drug is effective against bacterial pathogens. There are two active components at once - amoxicillin, clavulanic acid.The first is aimed at destroying a wide list of microorganisms, the second acts as an assistant in this matter, not allowing the pathogen to develop immunity. The main reason why we have isolated this agent is its moderate toxicity compared to analogues. There are many indications for it - sinusitis, otitis media, tonsillitis, cholecystitis, pyelonephritis, and other infections, including pneumonia. Several forms of release are offered to choose from - tablets, solution, suspension. There are no age restrictions, some cases allow reception from the first days of life.

Advantages

• Large list of indications;
• High bactericidal activity;
• Moderate toxicity;
• Good portability;
• Suitable for any age;
• Digestibility does not depend on food intake.

disadvantages

• Load on the liver, kidneys;
• The need for frequent admission.

The selection of the dose is carried out taking into account the general condition of the patient, the individual characteristics of the organism. Usually it is 250-875 mg, divided into 2-3 doses per day.

The average course duration is 7-10 days. For children, pregnant women, breastfeeding, doctor's control is important.

Sumamed

A universal antibiotic for the treatment of pneumonia of the latest generation from the group of macrolides with broad bacterial, antimicrobial activity. The active substance in the composition is azithromycin dihydrate, effective in the case of many infectious processes with a pathogenic pathogen (usually mycoplasmas, chlamydia). Demonstrates good results in the treatment of genitourinary and skin diseases. The indications are bronchitis, pleurisy, tonsillitis, sinusitis, otitis media, the defeat of the gastrointestinal tract by Helicobacter. The suspension can be taken by children from 6 months of age, the rest are offered pills, powders, capsules, bottles for infusion. In comparison with penicillins, it exhibits low toxicity. In addition, the active substance reaches the focus of inflammation at a high speed and has a prolonged effect.

Advantages

• Fast efficiency;
• Low toxicity;
• Convenient reception scheme;
• Minimal contraindications;
• A large number of release forms;
• The effectiveness against Pseudomonas aeruginosa is higher.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Risks of side effects.

One package contains 3 tablets. The rules for taking according to the instructions - once a day with a dosage of 500 mg. With a mild form of pneumonia, 3-5 days are enough; in case of complications, the course is extended. For children from bacterial pneumonia, the volume of the suspension is selected taking into account age, weight - a maximum of 125 mg.

Clarithromycin

Semisynthetic from the macrolide group with bacteriostatic, bactericidal, antibacterial activity. Unlike previous nominees, Clarithromycin is appropriate when quick assistance is needed due to its high bioavailability. The active substance with the same name is clarithromycin with a broad spectrum of action against gram-positive / gram-negative, anaerobes, streptococci, intracellular microorganisms, mycobacterium tuberculosis. Shows good results in the treatment of diseases of the digestive system, provoked by Helicobacter Pylori. Another advantageous feature of this nominee is the rapid elimination of metabolites. Method of production - tablets, powder for suspension, lyophilisate, capsules.

Advantages

• High bioavailability;
• Fast onset of the effect;
• Large list of indications;
• Low toxicity;
• Convenient release forms;
• Rapid elimination from the body.

disadvantages

• Contraindicated in pregnant women, breastfeeding;
• Complex mechanism of action.

Clarithromycin is taken twice a day, regardless of food intake, with a dosage of 250-500 mg. Normally, the course is 7-10 days, with bilateral pneumonia and complications it is extended to 2 weeks. The suspension is given to the child in an amount calculated taking into account the weight.

Anti-inflammatory drugs for pneumonia

If mild pneumonia requires taking antibacterial drugs, then in the case of severe intoxication syndrome, a state of febrile fever, the course is supplemented with anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They fight symptoms - they lower the temperature, eliminate swelling, and relieve pain. There were about 10 most bought NSAIDs for consideration by the editors of the portal, but two nominees received the highest percentage of approval.

Ibuprofen

A popular remedy in the form of effervescent tablets or sustained-release capsules for adults, suppositories or syrup for young patients. The synthetic component in the composition - a derivative of phenylpropionic acid - has strong antipyretic, anesthetic, anti-inflammatory properties. It suppresses the biosynthesis of mediators of inflammation and pain. The liquid form can be given to babies from 3 months. The list of indications indicates pains of a different nature, localization, origin, febrile reactions to colds, infections. Admission is allowed in the I, II trimester of pregnancy. There is a negative effect on the digestive organs, therefore, serious pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract are a direct contraindication.

Advantages

• Highly effective against symptoms;
• Elimination of pain of any strength, localization;
• Forms for adults, children;
• Allowed for pregnant women;
• Favorable safety profile;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Harmful effect on the stomach;
• Does not eliminate the causes of the disease.

Regardless of the severity of the disease, the patient's age, you can take Ibuprofen no longer than 5 days. If these are tablets, then 1 piece 3-4 times a day, preferably after meals. For children, the dose is calculated by weight - 5-10 mg per kilogram of weight, application after 4-6 hours.

Nurofen

A representative of the NSAID group, which is based on ibuprofen, a substance derived from phenylpropionic acid. It is used to suppress the inflammatory process, relieve pain, relieve fever. Several forms of release are sold - solid or effervescent, capsules, suppositories, suspension, gel for external use. All of them are divided into 2 types - children from 3 months of age, adult Nurofen. The highest efficacy was noted in the preparation where the composition was supplemented with codeine with an antitussive effect. The indications are various colds with fever, pain of any nature, localization. Unlike its predecessor, it is a proprietary medication. In rare cases, the doctor allows pregnant women to be taken in minimal doses in the first or second trimester.

Advantages

• High-speed performance;
• Sustained-release syrup;
• Large list of indications;
• Ease of use;
• Forms of increased bioavailability;
• European production.

disadvantages

• Price;
• The syrup contains sugar.

The antipyretic, analgesic effect of liquid forms occurs faster than that of analogues. The maximum dose per day is 3-4 tablets of 200 mg, divided into several doses. The course of treatment should not exceed 3-5 days. The child is allowed a suspension of about 30 mg / kg per day.

Antivirals for pneumonia

If the cause of such a disease is a viral infection transmitted by airborne droplets (for example, with coronavirus), select appropriate medications. 90% of cases are pneumonia in children or the elderly due to a weak immune system. The doctor selects an antiviral agent, which needs to be taken for about 3 weeks. Of all the pharmacy products of this profile, expertpro.techinfus.com/en/ selected the best based on the reviews of doctors and their patients.

Ergoferon

A new drug on the pharmaceutical market with a pronounced antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, immunomodulatory activity. Available in the form of lozenges. In terms of composition, it belongs to homeopathy, contains a complex of immunoglobulins to human gamma interferon, histamine, CD4 cells.If used correctly, the level of substances that help the immune system to recognize and destroy the pathogen in time increases. It is prescribed to fight against bacterial, viral threats, prepare the body for the season of colds. With serious ailments, it necessarily requires an integrated approach to therapy. The age limit is from 3 years old. Pregnant women who are breastfeeding need a doctor's consultation.

Advantages

• Increased immunity;
• Multifunctional homeopathy;
• Pleasant taste;
• Good portability;
• Excellent compatibility;
• No health risks.

disadvantages

• Price;
• The effectiveness has not been proven clinically.

Pills against viral pneumonia are drunk 1-2 pieces per day from several weeks to six months. In case of an acute infection, a tablet is prescribed every half hour for 2 hours, then another 3 tablets until the end of the current day, and after 2-3 pieces for 5-10 days in a row.

Best Antivirals

Antitussives for pneumonia

Irritation of the respiratory parts of the lungs provokes a persistent cough of a bacterial, viral, fungal nature. In addition to basic medications, patients are prescribed those that eliminate this symptom. Treatment of cough in pneumonia is aimed at removing mucopurulent sputum, healing, softening tissues, preventing obstructions, and eliminating the inflammatory component. After studying medical recommendations, reviews, results of clinical trials, two leading medicines were identified.

Dr. Mom

An herbal remedy for dry, unproductive cough. Available in several forms - syrup, lozenges, rubbing ointment. The first option is allowed from the age of 3. Contains extracts of aloe vera, ginger, basil, turmeric, cubeba pepper, vascular, bibhitaki and nightshade. Lozenges consist of licorice, emblica, ginger, supplemented with levo menthol. Ointment - levo menthol, camphor, eucalyptus and nutmeg oil, turpentine oil, hydroxy derivative of cymene. All of them have complex therapeutic properties - they facilitate breathing, relieve inflammation, thin phlegm for excretion, cleanse from toxins, soften tissues, relieve pain. Antiseptic properties are also noted. Suitable only for complex therapy. Safe composition allows use during pregnancy, lactation.

Advantages

• Natural composition;
• Convenient release forms;
• Pleasant taste;
• Allowed for children, pregnant women, breastfeeding;
• Complex effect;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Risks of allergic reactions;
• Fast consumption.

Children are given 2.5 ml of syrup up to 3 times a day. The pastilles dissolve at intervals of 2 hours. The ointment is rubbed on the wings of the nose, temporal region, back, sternum, you can use a bandage. The duration of the course depends on the state of health, the doctor's recommendations.

Bromhexine

A medication with mucolytic, antiseptic, anesthetic, expectorant action. Unlike the previous nominee, a secretolytic property is noted here, due to which the lungs quickly remove phlegm to the outside. Clinical studies confirm effectiveness against all types of cough. The active ingredient is bromhexine hydrochloride, which normalizes the balance of sputum components. There are two forms of release - syrup, tablets. Liquid Bromhexine soothes irritated tissues, which is appropriate for dry coughs, solid penetrates faster, which is appropriate for wet coughs. List of indications - laryngitis, tracheitis, pulmonary emphysema, bronchial asthma, respiratory tract infections, etc. Children are given separate doses of Bromhexine. Pregnant women are contraindicated in the early stages of gestation.

Advantages

• Normalization of sputum composition;
• Acceleration of recovery;
• Several forms for different age groups;
• Safe composition;
• Effectiveness for any type of cough;
• Inexpensive.

disadvantages

• Incompatibility with drugs that block the cough reflex;
• For complex therapy only.

The child is given 2.5-10 ml syrup three times a day, depending on age. Adults - 8 mg of active substance 3-4 times a day.

In severe cases, complications, the doctor may double the dosage. The maximum effect is observed on the 4-6th day of regular treatment.

Bronchodilators for pneumonia

Another relevant group of medicines for treating symptoms are bronchodilators. Their main task is to improve respiratory function by influencing the muscle tone of the bronchi, preventing the development of respiratory failure. Indications for use - narrowing of the bronchi, edema, bronchospasm, mucus accumulation. There is a wide variety of such medicines on sale from different manufacturers. The best reviews, medical recommendations have identified the nominees in the current rating.

Fenoterol

A powerful bronchodilator beta-2-adrenomimetic selective type in composition. The active substance is fenoterol, its spectrum of action depends on the form of release. It relieves muscle spasm, stimulates clearance, has a tocolytic, relaxing effect, eliminates signs of cardiovascular and respiratory failure. The main purpose is bronchial asthma, respiratory obstruction, pulmonary emphysema. It happens in the form of an aerosol, tablets, infusion, injection solutions. Use during pregnancy is permissible, except for the first three months; lactation is a contraindication. The age limit is from 6 years old. Sold in a plastic bottle containing 100 tablets.

Advantages

• Pronounced relaxing effect;
• High activity;
• Prolonged action;
• The minimum frequency of side effects;
• Economical consumption;
• Allowed for pregnant women, children.

disadvantages

• Price;
• Overdose risks.

Children are prescribed treatment with 0.1 mg inhalation, spraying the solution three times a day, the dosage for an adult is 0.6 mg per day. For solid form, the maximum allowable amount is 8 pieces per day, divided into several doses. The manufacturer recommends drinking 2 liters of water daily.

Salbutamol

Another medication from the group of selective beta2-adrenergic agonists to prevent, intense relief of bronchial spasms. It is used to eliminate symptoms. There are 3 forms to choose from - tablets, aerosol, syrup. The active ingredient enters the body, relaxes the muscles, increases the vital capacity of the lungs. Indications from the instructions - prevention or elimination of bronchospasm, relief of suffocation, prevention of complications of bronchitis, children's broncho-obstructive syndrome, obstetric aid. The age limit is from 2 years. Salbutamol is categorically contraindicated for pregnant women who are breastfeeding.

Advantages

• High-speed performance;
• For an adult, a child;
• Relief of asthma attacks;
• Effectiveness against asthma;
• Ease of use;
• Price.

disadvantages

• Higher risks of developing side effects;
• Addictive is possible.

When using an aerosol, 1-2 presses are made with a break of 4-6 hours, no more than 8 doses in one day. Syrup 1-2 mg / day for children 2-6 years old, 2 mg / day 6-12 years old, 8 mg / day older. Tablets are drunk 1 piece 3-4 times, capsules less often due to prolonged action.

How to choose a remedy for pneumonia

How to treat pneumonia, with what drugs, depends on many factors. But you need to rely primarily on the doctor's recommendations during the consultation, examination. Also, much depends on the established causes of the development of the disease, the nature of its occurrence, the pathogen. Contraindications to different groups of drugs significantly narrow the range of drug search.

The doctor's consultation

Inflammation of the lungs is a serious disease that is more often a complication of viral, bacterial, fungal infections, colds. There can be no talk of any self-medication here, since sepsis, pleurisy, meningitis, abscess, even death are possible.Only after a laboratory study, a doctor's determination of the diagnosis, can a course of drug therapy be correctly drawn up.

The nature of the disease

What groups of drugs, in what volume, are needed depends on the type of pathogen, the general clinical picture and the patient's well-being. For instance:

• mild form - only antibiotics can be taken;
• intoxication syndrome, fever - use antipyretic, anti-inflammatory drugs;
• cough, difficulty breathing, choking - mucolytics, bronchodilators, antitussive medicines are needed;
• pneumonia was provoked by an acute respiratory viral infection - antiviral drugs are selected;
• revealed catarrhal phenomena - the use of antiseptics is required;
• lesion of the pleura with acute pain syndrome - anesthetics are prescribed.

The addition of additional drugs to the list of prescriptions depends on what other clinical symptoms will be identified by specialists.

Contraindications

Only an experienced doctor knows how to select medicines for a patient, taking into account his age, state of health, and individual characteristics of the body. For this, a study of contraindications is carried out, for example:

• tendency to allergies - exclude herbal formulations;
• pathology of the digestive system - avoid strong toxic medications of aggressive effects;
• problems with the heart, kidneys, liver - a frequent contraindication to antibiotics and other powerful drugs, some are additionally prescribed supporting agents (hepatoprotectors that support microflora, enzymes);
• problems with the hematopoietic system - with such a problem NSAIDs are inappropriate;
• childhood, pregnancy, lactation - special conditions that require the appointment of low-toxic, natural compounds.

Before you buy this or that product, it is important to read the instructions, the indicated restrictions on admission.

Which remedy for pneumonia is better

In fact, it is impossible to name one nominee from the presented rating in order to recommend to buyers. Therapy for this disease requires an integrated approach. We conducted a comparative analysis of the pros and cons of each position of the review, the opinions of doctors, the reviews of their patients, after which we summed up the following results:

• Sumamed - a prolonged antibacterial agent for pneumonia for children;
• Clarithromycin is a safe antibiotic with rapid elimination from the body;
• Nurofen is a fast-acting proprietary NSAID without age restrictions;
• Ergoferon - homeopathy that supports immunity without side effects;
• Dr. Mom is a natural cough remedy without age restrictions;
• Bromhexine - the ability to cure a cough of any nature;
• Salbutamol is an ambulance for severe attacks of suffocation.

The list of suitable drugs for such a diagnosis is extensive, but the last word should always be with the competent physician. A set of measures will never be limited to one medication; it will be rather difficult to choose a complex on your own. The expert rating showed the most relevant proposals of the pharmaceutical market.