The efficiency and safety of a dietary supplement used in the treatment of preschool and school children with acute respiratory infections

Introduction. The aim of this research was to assess the efficiency and safety of a natural product N-acetylcysteine and propolis in the children with acute respiratory infections with increased mucus production and cough. Material and Methods. The research was conducted in the period April 2016 - February 2017 among 145 pediatric patients aged 3 to 14 years with symptoms of acute respiratory infection. They were divided into two groups. Group A - preschool and Group B - school children. The first clinical examination included demographic data, physical examination. filling out the quality of cough questionnaire, and taking nasal and pharyngeal swabs. After a ten-day therapy, physical examination was conducted, quality of cough questionnaire was refilled and swabs were taken. Results. Group A included 73 and Group B 72 children. No statistically significant difference was observed in the incidence of respiratory disease episodes. In Group B children received antibiotics less often. started school at an early age and more children had daily activities in regard to children in Group A. Statistically, both groups of children coughed early in the morning more than during the day. The results of control swab tests were negative in both groups. No side effects were reported in either group. Conclusion. The propolis combined with N-acetylcysteine in a pediatric syrup is a good choice in the treatment of acute respiratory infections in children with accompanied mucus production and cough. The product is efficient and safe for all age groups.