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Generic

Guaifenesin

1 brands available in the market

At a glance

Guaifenesin is an expectorant used for the temporary relief of cough caused by common cold, bronchitis and other breathing illnesses.

Description

Introduction: Guaifenesin is an expectorant used for the temporary relief of cough caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier.

How it works: Guaifenesin increases respiratory tract secretions and reduces mucus viscosity, helping phlegm to be expelled more easily and relieving cough.

Important Information: Adults: Take one tablet every 12 hours with a full glass of water. Do not exceed 2400 mg in 24 hours. Swallow tablets whole, do not crush or chew. Drink plenty of fluids.

Indications
  • Cough: caused by common cold, bronchitis and other breathing illnesses
Therapeutic class

Cough suppressant

Pharmacological class

Expectorant

Pharmacology

Guaifenesin reduces the viscosity of mucus in the airways and increases secretions, which helps phlegm to be expelled more easily and relieves cough.

Mechanism of action

Guaifenesin thins and loosens mucus to clear the airways and make breathing easier.

Dosage

Adult Dose:

  • 1 tablet every 12 hours with a full glass of water
  • Maximum 2400 mg in 24 hours

Children (under 12 years):

  • Not recommended (sustained-release)
Administration

Oral tablet. Can be taken with or without food. Swallow whole, do not chew or crush. Drink plenty of fluids.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular schedule.

Side effects

Common Side Effects:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Serious Allergic Reaction (rare):

  • Rash
  • Itching/swelling
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing
Precautions & warnings

Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor if you have any allergies
  • Inform your doctor if you have breathing problems (emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma), cough with blood or large amounts of mucus
  • Inform your doctor/dentist about all products you use before surgery
  • Use during pregnancy only when clearly needed
  • Consult your doctor before breastfeeding
Contraindications

Contraindications:

  • Allergy to guaifenesin
Drug interactions

Drug Interactions:

  • Multiple products may contain guaifenesin - check labels
  • May interfere with certain lab tests (urine levels of certain acids)
Food interactions

Food Interactions: No interaction found/established.

Use in pregnancy

Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects.

Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Use in lactation

Use in Lactation: Probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited data suggests the drug does not represent significant risk to the baby.

Pediatric use

Pediatric Use: Sustained-release formulation not recommended for children under 12 years.

Geriatric use

Geriatric Use: Use as per doctor's advice for elderly patients.

Renal / hepatic impairment

Renal & Hepatic Impairment: No known restrictions. However, consult your doctor.

Overdose effects

Overdose: Overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, dizziness. Symptomatic and supportive treatment should be given.

Storage conditions

Storage: Store below 30°C, in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical structure

Guaifenesin Tablet

Common questions

Q1: What is Guaifenesin used for?
It is used for temporary relief of cough caused by common cold, bronchitis and other breathing illnesses.
Q2: How does this medicine work?
It thins and loosens mucus to clear the airways and make breathing easier.
Q3: What precautions should be taken?
Swallow tablets whole, drink plenty of fluids and do not exceed the maximum daily dose.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.