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Cvs Chest Congestion Relief

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Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2009
Label revision date
December 18, 2024
Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2009
Label revision date
December 18, 2024
Manufacturer
CVS Pharmacy, Inc.
Registration number
M012
NDC root
69842-996

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Drug Overview

This medication is designed to temporarily relieve cough caused by minor irritation in the throat and bronchial tubes, which can happen with a common cold. It works by helping to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making it easier for you to clear out bothersome mucus from your airways. As a result, it can help make your coughs more productive, allowing for better breathing and comfort.

Uses

If you're dealing with a cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, such as what you might experience with a common cold, this medication can provide temporary relief. It works by helping to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin out bronchial secretions, making it easier for your body to clear out bothersome mucus from your airways.

Additionally, this medication can help make your coughs more productive, meaning you'll be able to cough up mucus more effectively. This can be particularly helpful when you're feeling congested and need to clear your throat and lungs.

Dosage and Administration

If you are an adult or a child aged 12 years and older, you can take 1 tablet every 4 hours as needed for relief. For children between the ages of 6 and under 12, the recommended dose is 1/2 tablet every 4 hours as needed. However, if your child is under 6 years old, it’s important to consult a doctor before giving them any medication.

Make sure not to exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period, unless your doctor has given you different instructions. This helps ensure that you use the medication safely and effectively. Always follow the guidance provided by your healthcare professional.

What to Avoid

It's important to be cautious when considering this medication. You should not use it if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication often used for depression and other mental health conditions. Additionally, avoid using this medication if you are on certain drugs for depression, psychiatric or emotional issues, or Parkinson's disease. If you have recently stopped taking an MAOI, wait at least two weeks before using this medication.

Be aware that this medication may have potential for abuse or misuse, and it can lead to dependence (a condition where your body becomes reliant on a substance). Always follow your healthcare provider's guidance and discuss any concerns you may have about your treatment options.

Side Effects

You should be aware of some important side effects and warnings associated with this medication. If you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have stopped taking one within the last two weeks, do not use this medication.

It's important to stop using it and consult your doctor if you experience symptoms like fever, rash, or a persistent headache. Additionally, if your cough lasts more than a week or keeps coming back, it could indicate a more serious condition, so seek medical advice. Before using this medication, talk to your doctor if you have a chronic cough due to smoking, asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema, especially if it comes with excessive mucus.

Warnings and Precautions

You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have stopped taking one within the last two weeks. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Before using this medication, it's important to talk to your doctor if you have a long-lasting cough, especially if it’s due to smoking, asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema, or if your cough comes with a lot of mucus. If you experience an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Center right away.

You should stop using this product and call your doctor if you develop a fever, rash, or a persistent headache, if your cough lasts more than a week, or if it keeps coming back. A persistent cough could indicate a more serious health issue, so it's best to get it checked out.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it's important to stay calm and take immediate action. While the specific signs of an overdose are not detailed, common symptoms can include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these signs, or if you are unsure, seek medical help right away.

In case of an overdose, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. It's crucial to provide them with as much information as possible about the substance taken and the amount, if known. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in your health and safety.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

If your child is between 6 and 12 years old, they can take half a tablet every four hours as needed. For children under 6 years old, it's important to consult a doctor before giving any medication. Adults and children aged 12 and older can take one tablet every four hours as needed.

Make sure not to exceed six doses in a 24-hour period unless directed by a doctor. Always keep medications out of reach of children, and if you suspect an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Center right away.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney issues, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the standard recommendations for the medication do not include special monitoring or safety considerations tailored for patients with renal impairment (kidney problems).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can provide guidance based on your individual situation.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the standard recommendations apply, but you should always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help monitor your liver function and determine the best approach for your treatment.

Make sure to keep your doctor informed about your liver health, as they may need to conduct regular tests to ensure your safety while using any medication. Your well-being is a priority, so don't hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns you may have.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious about combining medications. You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication often used for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, you should wait at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI before using this product. If you're unsure whether your current prescription includes an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Always discuss any medications you are taking with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and avoid potentially harmful interactions. Your health is a priority, and your provider can help you navigate any concerns regarding your treatments.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). It's important to keep the product out of reach of children to prevent any accidental use. Once you open the product, please remember to discard it, as it should not be reused after opening to maintain safety and quality.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using it. Always keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Center right away.

FAQ

What does this drug do?

This drug temporarily relieves cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, helps loosen phlegm (mucus), and makes coughs more productive.

How should adults and children over 12 take this drug?

Adults and children 12 years of age and over should take 1 tablet every 4 hours as needed, not exceeding 6 doses in a 24-hour period.

What is the dosage for children aged 6 to under 12?

Children aged 6 to under 12 years should take 1/2 tablet every 4 hours as needed.

What should I do if my child is under 6?

Consult a doctor before giving this drug to children under 6 years of age.

Are there any contraindications for this drug?

Do not use this drug if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or certain drugs for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop use and ask a doctor if symptoms are accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache, or if a cough persists for more than 1 week.

Can I use this drug if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before using this drug.

What should I do in case of overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Center immediately.

How should I store this drug?

Store at 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) and keep out of reach of children. Discard after opening.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cvs Chest Congestion Relief (dextromethorphan hydrobromide / guaifenesin). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cvs Chest Congestion Relief.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Description

The SPL Code for this product is 34089-3. Further details regarding the chemical composition, structural formula, inactive ingredients, and other specific characteristics are currently not provided.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of cough associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur due to a common cold. It aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, facilitating the clearance of bothersome mucus from the bronchial passageways. Additionally, this medication helps to make coughs more productive.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children 12 years of age and over are instructed to take 1 tablet every 4 hours as needed. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the recommended dosage is 1/2 tablet every 4 hours as needed. It is important to note that for children under 6 years of age, consultation with a doctor is required prior to administration.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients not to exceed 6 doses within a 24-hour period, unless otherwise directed by a physician.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) due to the risk of serious interactions.

  • Patients using certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease, as these may lead to adverse effects.

  • Patients who have discontinued MAOI therapy within the past two weeks, as residual effects may still pose a risk.

Warnings and Precautions

The use of this product is contraindicated in individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within two weeks of discontinuing an MAOI. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult their doctor or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI prior to using this product.

Patients should be cautioned to seek medical advice before using this product if they have a persistent or chronic cough, particularly those associated with smoking, asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema. Additionally, individuals experiencing a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucous) should also consult their healthcare provider.

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek emergency medical assistance or contact a Poison Center immediately.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult their doctor if they experience any of the following: symptoms accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache; a cough that persists for more than one week or tends to recur; or if a persistent cough is suspected to indicate a serious underlying condition.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with the use of this medication. Serious adverse reactions may occur, particularly in patients who are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the past two weeks. The use of this medication in such cases is contraindicated.

Common adverse reactions may include symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention. Patients are advised to stop use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms are accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache. Additionally, if a cough persists for more than one week or tends to recur, it may indicate a serious underlying condition, and medical advice should be sought.

Before initiating treatment, patients should consult their healthcare provider if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, if the cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucous), it is important to seek medical advice prior to use.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of this product with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. Patients should not use this product if they are currently taking an MAOI or certain medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, it is advised to avoid this product for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI.

Patients are encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider or pharmacist to confirm whether their current prescription includes an MAOI before initiating treatment with this product.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cvs Chest Congestion Relief (dextromethorphan hydrobromide / guaifenesin). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cvs Chest Congestion Relief.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients aged 6 to under 12 years may take 1/2 tablet every 4 hours as needed, with a maximum of 6 doses in a 24-hour period or as directed by a healthcare provider. For children under 6 years of age, consultation with a doctor is required prior to use.

It is important to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance or contact with a Poison Center is necessary.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and breastfeeding safety. Healthcare providers should consider individual circumstances and the specific health needs of the patient when making recommendations.

Lactation

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

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the available data regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with reduced kidney function, as the lack of information necessitates careful clinical judgment and monitoring of these patients.

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 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 considered as part of standard clinical practice.

Overdosage

In the absence of specific information regarding overdosage, healthcare professionals are advised to exercise caution and adhere to general principles of management in cases of suspected overdose.

It is essential to monitor the patient closely for any potential symptoms that may arise from an overdose. Symptoms can vary widely depending on the substance involved and the individual patient's response.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention should be sought. Healthcare providers should implement supportive care measures, which may include maintaining airway patency, providing supplemental oxygen, and monitoring vital signs.

If available, specific antidotes or treatments should be administered as indicated based on the clinical scenario and the substance involved. Consultation with a poison control center or a medical toxicologist may be beneficial for guidance on management strategies tailored to the specific situation.

Documentation of the incident, including the amount and timing of the substance taken, is crucial for effective management and follow-up care.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the provided data.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical help or contact a Poison Center immediately.

Patients should be informed not to use this product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. They should also refrain from using this product for at least two weeks after discontinuing an MAOI. If patients are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI, they should consult their doctor or pharmacist prior to using this product.

Healthcare providers should instruct patients to stop using the medication and consult their doctor if symptoms are accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache. Additionally, if a cough persists for more than one week or tends to recur, patients should be advised to seek medical attention, as a persistent cough may indicate a serious condition.

It is also important for healthcare providers to recommend that patients ask their doctor before using this product if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema, or if their cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucous).

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a configuration that includes specific NDC numbers, which are essential for identification and inventory management. It is crucial to store the product at a temperature range of 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) to maintain its efficacy and safety.

To ensure proper handling, the product should be kept out of reach of children. Additionally, it is important to discard the product after opening to prevent any potential contamination or degradation.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. It is important to keep the medication out of reach of children, and in the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Center immediately.

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Cvs Chest Congestion Relief, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.