Guaifenesin (By mouth)

Introduction

Guaifenesin (gwye-FEN-e-sin)

Treats cough that is caused by colds, flu, or other conditions. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that loosens mucus in your lungs.

Brand Name(s)

Robitussin, Mucinex, Refenesen 400, Liquibid, The Medicine Shoppe Chest Congestion Relief, Rite Aid Mucus Relief, Bidex 400, Diabetic Tussin Mucus Relief, HealthSense G-Phen 400, Allfen JR, Xpect, Organ-1 NR, Organidin NR, GG-200 NR, Refenesen

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. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 2 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine

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

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Do not break, chew, or crush the tablet or capsule. Swallow it whole with a full glass of water.

If a dose is missed:

• This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

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

• If you are pregnant or breast feeding, ask your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine.
• If your cough is caused by asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, or smoking, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• This medicine may contain alcohol.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Cough that lasts longer than 7 days.
• Cough with fever, skin rash, or ongoing headache.

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

• Drowsiness.
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain.