Efficacy of Broncofurin in the Management of Patients with COPD: A Clinical Study on Effects on Sputum Quality and Lung Function
Lung diseases represent a broad category of respiratory conditions that can seriously compromise lung function and patients’ quality of life. These conditions, often chronic and progressive, include a wide range of issues, from acute infections to obstructive and restrictive diseases.
Among the most common lung diseases, especially in the elderly, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a respiratory condition characterized by persistent airway obstruction.
With a high prevalence and significant impact on healthcare systems, COPD management is a clinical priority aimed at reducing symptoms, preventing acute exacerbations, and slowing down the decline in lung function.
Standard therapies include pharmacological treatments, respiratory rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes. Nutritional supplements, with their specific compositions, may also provide additional benefits, helping to improve disease management in the medium term.
In this study, we conducted a retrospective evaluation based on prospectively collected data to examine the efficacy of Broncofurin, formulated to support respiratory function in elderly patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Broncofurin combines active ingredients known for their beneficial effects on the respiratory tract and immune system: N-acetylcysteine (NAC), Marshmallow root extract, Sundew, Red Poppy, and Vitamin C.
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is recognized for its mucolytic properties. It facilitates mucus thinning and improves expectoration, thus contributing to improved respiratory comfort.
Marshmallow, a plant known for its emollient and soothing effects, aids in reducing respiratory tract irritations, while Sundew, traditionally used as an antitussive, effectively soothes the dry and persistent cough often associated with COPD.
Red Poppy has a natural sedative effect on the respiratory system, helping to alleviate irritative symptoms, while Vitamin C, as an antioxidant, supports immune defenses and counters oxidative stress, often elevated in patients with chronic respiratory diseases.
This dietary supplement was administered as an adjunctive therapy to observe if, in the medium term, it could favorably influence clinical parameters such as sputum quality and lung function, contributing to a more comprehensive COPD management.
Evaluation of Broncofurin’s Efficacy on Sputum Quality and Lung Function
We retrospectively evaluated prospectively collected data in a single-center, single-arm study to assess the efficacy of adjunctive therapy with a dietary supplement on sputum quality and lung function in 40 elderly patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Objective symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and sputum were assessed, and scores from the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) were collected.
The St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) is a standardized tool that measures the impact of chronic respiratory diseases, such as COPD, on quality of life, considering symptoms, activities, and social and emotional impacts.
The results show that symptoms significantly improved from baseline after treatment (T1, 1 month), with further improvement observed 2 months after treatment (T2, 3 months).
In conclusion, our study suggests that specific nutraceuticals may be useful in controlling COPD symptoms in a population of elderly patients with stable COPD. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.
If you are interested in becoming a distributor of Broncofurin in ready-to-market line or private label, or if you would like more information about our clinical study
Source: Anno VIII, N.2 – Giugno 2023, Pharmanutrition and Functional Foods.
