Guaifenesin (Oral)
Key points
- Treats cough due to colds, the flu, or other conditions.
- 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.
- You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to guaifenesin.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
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.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.