Modern treatment of bronchitis?

Question

On the internet there are dozens or even hundreds of medicines claiming to help if you have bronchitis. But is there a modern and tested approach to treating this illness? Or has nothing really changed here during last 30-40 years?

Answer 1

The approach that is taken for treating bronchitis and other pulmonary issues has remained constant. The use of bronchodilaters, steroidal anti-inflammitories, and antibiotics has been a proven method. The geographic location, financial aspect, and availability of certain medications dictate what is used. That is why there are so many medications. The drug classification is usually the trend that is constant.

Answer 2

The best therapy for acute bronchitis is supportive therapy. Which means that you treat the symptoms. Acute bronchitis is usually viral and antiretrovirals are rarely prescribed as it is costly and does not decrease sick time significantly. Knowing the underlying cause streamlines treatment. Secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia may develop in patients with chronic or untreated bronchitis. At that point, therapy is based on age, co-morbidities, and antibiotic use history.

Supportive therapy includes:

1. Tylenol/ibuprofen for pain/fever
2. Increase fluids 
3. Humidity, mist therapy
4. Avoid irritants (chemicals, smoke)

Medications:

1. Acetaminophen
2. Guaifenesin with dextomethorphan (Robitussin DM, Humibid DM, Mytussin)
3. AB p 2 wks s resolution
4. Erythromycin 250-500mg qid OR
5. Clarithromycin 250-500 mg bid OR
6. Azithromycin 500mg then 250 mg x 4 days