This medication is used for the temporary relief of
coughs caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing
illnesses. This product is usually not used for ongoing cough from smoking
or long-term breathing problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema)
unless directed by your doctor. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by
thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and
making breathing easier.
If you are self-treating with this medication, it is
important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using
this product to be sure it is right for you. (See also Precautions
section.)
Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe
or effective in children younger than 6 years. This product
(sustained-release) is not recommended for use in children younger than 12
years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Ask your doctor or
pharmacist for more details about using your product
safely.
These products do not cure or shorten the length of the
common cold. To decrease the risk for side effects, carefully follow all
dosage directions. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might
contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions
section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough
and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or
saline nose drops/spray).
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, as
directed by your doctor, usually every 12 hours with a full glass of water.
If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If
you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and
response to treatment. Do not take more than 2400 milligrams in 24 hours.
Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than
directed.
Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew the
tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk
of side effects.
Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication.
Fluids will help to break up mucus and clear congestion.
Tell your doctor if your condition returns, or if it is
accompanied by a headache that doesn't go away, fever, severe sore throat,
rash, or if it lasts or gets worse after 7 days. These may be signs of a
serious medical problem. Get medical help right away if you think you may
have a serious medical problem.
Nausea or vomiting may occur. If either of these effects
last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication,
remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater
than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not
have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before taking guaifenesin, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- breathing problems (such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis,
asthma, smoker's cough)
- cough with blood or large amounts of mucus
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if guaifenesin passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Guaifenesin is available in both prescription and
nonprescription products. Check the labels of all your medications to make
sure you are not taking more than one product containing
guaifenesin.
This medication may interfere with certain lab tests
(such as urine levels of certain acids), possibly causing false test
results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this
drug.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
If your doctor prescribed this medication, do not share
this medication with others.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.
Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and
pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.