Mucolytics are medications designed to thin and loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear from the lungs. They are commonly used to treat respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and cystic fibrosis, where excessive mucus production can lead to breathing difficulties. These medications work by breaking down the chemical bonds in mucus, reducing its viscosity. Common examples of mucolytics include acetylcysteine and carbocisteine. By improving mucus clearance, mucolytics can help alleviate symptoms and improve lung function in affected individuals.