Clobutinol

Clobutinol

Clobutinol is a non-opioid cough suppressant or antitussive drug which was previously widely available worldwide. It was discovered and brought to market by Boehringer Ingelheim in 1961. However, it was withdrawn from the market worldwide in 2007-2008 due to concerns about cardiac toxicity.

Pharmacology

Clobutinol works by suppressing the cough reflex in the central nervous system. It is a non-opioid antitussive, meaning it does not have the risk of dependency associated with opioid cough suppressants. However, it has been associated with potentially serious cardiac side effects, including QT interval prolongation, which can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias.

History

Clobutinol was first discovered and brought to market by the German pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim in 1961. It was widely used for many years as a cough suppressant. However, in 2007, it was withdrawn from the market in Germany due to concerns about cardiac toxicity. This was followed by a worldwide withdrawal in 2008.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of clobutinol include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. However, the most serious side effect is QT interval prolongation, which can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias. This side effect led to the withdrawal of clobutinol from the market worldwide.

Withdrawal from Market

In 2007, clobutinol was withdrawn from the market in Germany after a review of safety data showed an increased risk of QT interval prolongation and arrhythmias. This was followed by a worldwide withdrawal in 2008. The withdrawal was voluntary and was carried out by the manufacturers.

See Also

• Antitussive
• Boehringer Ingelheim
• QT interval
• Arrhythmia