Guaifenesin

Guaifenesin oral dosage forms

What is guaifenesin?

GUAIFENESIN (Humibidreg;, Mucinex™, Robitussinreg;, and others) helps treat coughs caused by colds or the flu. It loosens phlegm or mucus in the lungs. It is not intended to treat chronic cough caused by smoking, asthma, emphysema, heart failure, or problems in which there is a large amount of phlegm. Generic guaifenesin is available as prescription or non-prescription capsules, extended-release capsules, tablets, extended-release tablets, and oral liquids. Generic Mucinex™ tablets are not available.

What should my health care professional know before I take guaifenesin?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•asthma
•chronic bronchitis
•emphysema
•fever
•heart problems (such as heart failure)
•smoker
•an unusual or allergic reaction to guaifenesin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take guaifenesin by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the medicine with a full glass of water. Do not cut, crush, bite, or chew the delayed-release tablets or capsules. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure the liquid medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one; household spoons are not always accurate. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you are taking guaifenesin on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with guaifenesin?

No interactions between guaifenesin and other medicines have been recorded.

Some medications can cause a cough such as ACE inhibitors (captopril, enalapril, and others) which are used to treat high blood pressure or heart failure. Tell your doctor about all the prescription medications you are taking.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What side effects may I notice from taking guaifenesin?