What should patients be advised to do while taking expectorants?

Increasing fluid intake is essential for patients taking expectorants because these medications work by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways. Adequate hydration helps to facilitate this process, making it easier to cough up mucus and clear respiratory passages. When patients consume more fluids, it enhances the mucus's viscosity, effectively improving the expectorant's efficacy.

Furthermore, staying well-hydrated not only supports the action of the expectorant but also helps to reduce the risk of potential side effects, such as dry mouth and throat irritation. It's important for patients to understand that adequate fluid intake will maximize the therapeutic benefits of the expectorant, aiding in their recovery from respiratory conditions.