TY - JOUR T1 - Mucolytics for COPD: negotiating a slippery slope towards proof of efficacy JF - European Respiratory Journal JO - Eur Respir J DO - 10.1183/13993003.01465-2017 VL - 50 IS - 4 SP - 1701465 AU - Shawn D. Aaron Y1 - 2017/10/01 UR - http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/50/4/1701465.abstract N2 - Mucolytics are medicines that modulate mucus production and decrease mucus viscosity. Their mucus thinning effects may improve mucociliary transport and thereby facilitate expectoration of mucus out of the distal bronchial tree [1]. Improved clearance and expectoration of mucus can prevent mucus plugging of small airways and may theoretically improve gas exchange and lessen the probability of post-obstructive infection. Through these complementary effects, mucolytics could potentially play a role in reducing exacerbations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [2].Clinical trials have thus far not conclusively demonstrated that mucolytics are effective therapies for COPD http://ow.ly/wbLe30eKB7H ER -