Guaifenesin (Oral)

Jan 01, 2005 Viewed: 730

Guaifenesin (By Mouth)

Guaifenesin (gwye-FEN-e-sin)

Treats cough due to colds, the flu, or other conditions. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that loosens mucus in your lungs.

Brand Name(s):

Guaifenex LA, Guaifenex G, Amibid LA, Robitussin, Mucinex, Bidex 400, Allfen JR, Organidin NR, Organ-1 NR, GG-200 NR, Iofen, Hytuss, Hytuss 2x, Iofen-NF, Ganidin NR
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to guaifenesin.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet, Long Acting Capsule, Long Acting Tablet, Liquid

     
  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often. Drink a full glass of water after each dose; drink plenty of fluids during the day. May be taken with or without food.  
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup.  
  • Do not chew or crush the tablet or capsule. Swallow whole with a full glass of water.  
  • Swallow the sprinkle capsule whole, or open the capsule and mix the medicine beads with soft food (applesauce or pudding). Swallow the mixture whole; do not chew.

If a dose is missed:

     
  • May be taken as soon as possible; however, missing one dose is usually not a problem.  
  • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose  
  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

     
  • Store in a tight container at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Do not freeze the oral liquid.  
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:


Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

     
  • Some guaifenesin syrups contain alcohol.  
  • If you have asthma, emphysema, or a chronic cough from smoking, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.  
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

     
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain  
  • Drowsiness

Johns Hopkins patient information

Copyright 1996-2014 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 16.02.
Revision date: July 3, 2011
Last revised: by Dave R. Roger, M.D.

Drugs & Medications

  A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.