Cough and Congestion Extended Release

Description

CVS Health® Cough & Congestion is an extended-release formulation containing Dextromethorphan HBr (30 mg) and Guaifenesin (600 mg) per tablet. This product is classified as a cough suppressant and expectorant, designed to relieve cough and chest congestion. The tablets are formulated for a 12-hour duration of action, effectively controlling cough while thinning and loosening mucus. Each package contains 20 tablets, and the product is comparable to the active ingredients found in Mucinex® DM. The National Drug Code (NDC) for this product is 51316-065-67.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the relief of cough associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur due to the common cold or inhaled irritants. It helps to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, facilitating the clearance of mucus from the bronchial passageways and making coughs more productive.

Additionally, this drug temporarily relieves the intensity of coughing and the impulse to cough, thereby aiding in sleep.

Limitations of use include the absence of any noted teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects, indicating that there are no specific restrictions related to these concerns.

Dosage and Administration

The extended-release tablet should be taken with a full glass of water. It is important to note that the tablet must not be crushed, chewed, or broken, as this may affect the release mechanism of the medication.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 or 2 extended-release tablets every 12 hours, with a maximum of 4 extended-release tablets within a 24-hour period. This medication can be administered without regard to the timing of meals.

Use of this product is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications

There are no specific contraindications identified for this product. However, it is advised that the product should not be used in excess of the directed dosage.

Warnings and Precautions

Patients should not use this product in individuals under 12 years of age. The use of this medication is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, this product should not be used for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to use.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought. Patients are advised to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 without delay.

Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if a cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with this medication. Serious adverse reactions may occur, and it is crucial to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if a cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these symptoms could indicate a serious underlying condition.

This medication is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age. Additionally, it should not be used in conjunction with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing such medications, which are often prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Patients uncertain about whether their prescription includes an MAOI should seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

Before using this medication, patients should consult a healthcare provider if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or if their cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of this medication with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. MAOIs are typically prescribed for the treatment of depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, and Parkinson’s disease. Patients should not initiate therapy with this medication while currently on an MAOI or within 14 days following the discontinuation of an MAOI.

Monitoring for adverse effects is advised if there is a potential overlap in the treatment timeline, as the interaction may lead to serious clinical consequences.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cough and Congestion Extended Release (guaifenesin and dextromethorphan hbr). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not be administered this medication. There are no established safety or efficacy profiles for this age group, and its use is contraindicated in children younger than 12 years.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not require specific dosage adjustments or special precautions when using this medication, as there are no recommendations or safety concerns outlined in the prescribing information. However, healthcare providers should remain vigilant in monitoring the overall health status of geriatric patients, considering the potential for age-related physiological changes that could influence drug metabolism and response. It is advisable to assess each elderly patient individually to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

There is no specific information available regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with renal impairment. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing to patients with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in this patient population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the available information.

Overdosage

In the absence of specific information regarding overdosage in the provided sections of the Summary of Product Characteristics (SPL), healthcare professionals are advised to exercise caution when administering the medication.

It is essential to monitor patients closely for any signs of adverse effects or symptoms that may arise from excessive dosing. In the event of suspected overdosage, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Management of overdosage should be guided by the clinical presentation of the patient. Supportive care and symptomatic treatment are recommended, as there are no established antidotes or specific interventions outlined for this medication.

Healthcare professionals are encouraged to report any cases of overdosage to the appropriate regulatory authorities to contribute to the ongoing assessment of the medication's safety profile.

Nonclinical Toxicology

There is currently no available information regarding teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects associated with the compound. Additionally, no data has been provided concerning nonclinical toxicology, including animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Reports of side effects have been received through voluntary submissions and surveillance programs. Individuals are encouraged to report any adverse events to the designated phone number provided for this purpose.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 in the event of an overdose. It is important for patients to be informed that they should discontinue use and consult a doctor if their cough persists for more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Patients should be instructed to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount while using this product. Additionally, healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult with a doctor prior to use if they have a persistent or chronic cough, particularly if it is associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, patients should be advised to seek medical guidance if their cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature range of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper storage conditions must be adhered to, ensuring that the product is kept within the specified temperature limits to prevent degradation.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with the recommended dosage for adults and children aged 12 years and older being 1 or 2 tablets every 12 hours, not exceeding 4 tablets within a 24-hour period. It is contraindicated for children under 12 years of age.

Clinicians should counsel patients to consult a health professional if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Additionally, it is important to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cough and Congestion Extended Release, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)