What is the main therapeutic goal of using expectorants?

The primary therapeutic goal of using expectorants is to make secretions easier to expel. Expectorants work by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, which helps to clear the mucus from the respiratory tract. This action facilitates the movement of secretions, making it easier for individuals to cough up and eliminate mucus, thereby improving airflow and breathing comfort. The use of expectorants is particularly beneficial during respiratory infections or conditions characterized by thick mucus production, as it helps to promote a more productive cough rather than suppressing the body's natural mechanisms for clearing the lungs.