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Severe Congestion and Cough

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Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2023
Label revision date
November 24, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2023
Label revision date
November 24, 2025
Manufacturer
Walgreen Company
Registration number
M012
NDC root
0363-8004

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Drug Overview

This medication is a combination of three active ingredients: dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), guaifenesin (an expectorant), and phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant). It is designed to provide maximum strength relief for severe congestion and cough associated with the common cold or inhaled irritants.

Dextromethorphan helps to temporarily relieve the urge to cough, making it easier for you to sleep, while guaifenesin works to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, helping to clear your airways. Phenylephrine acts as a decongestant, relieving nasal congestion. Together, these ingredients help make coughs more productive and alleviate discomfort from congestion.

Uses

This medication is designed to help you breathe easier by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions. This action helps clear out bothersome mucus from your airways, making your coughs more productive.

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, which can happen with the common cold or from inhaling irritants. It also helps reduce the intensity of your cough and the urge to cough, making it easier for you to get a good night's sleep. Additionally, it can help relieve nasal congestion associated with a cold.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to ensure your safety and effectiveness of the medication. You should not take more than the directed amount, and make sure not to exceed 6 doses within a 24-hour period. Always use the dosing cup that comes with the medication for accurate measurement.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours. However, if you are caring for children under 12 years old, please do not use this medication for them. Following these guidelines will help you use the medication safely and effectively.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which are medications often prescribed for depression, certain psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, you should not use this product for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

While using this product, it’s important not to exceed the recommended dosage. Doing so can lead to serious health risks, including potential misuse or dependence (a condition where your body becomes reliant on a substance). Always prioritize your safety and well-being by following these guidelines closely.

Side Effects

If you experience nervousness, dizziness, or trouble sleeping while using this medication, it's important to stop using it and consult your doctor. Additionally, if your symptoms do not improve within a week or if they occur alongside a fever, you should seek medical advice. A cough that lasts more than a week, keeps coming back, or is accompanied by a fever, rash, or a persistent headache may indicate a more serious health issue, and you should contact your healthcare provider.

Warnings and Precautions

You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication for depression or certain other conditions, or if you have stopped taking an MAOI 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, it's important to talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: high blood pressure, thyroid disease, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, heart disease, diabetes, or a chronic cough related to smoking or other lung issues. If you experience an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

You should stop using this product and call your doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, or if your cough lasts more than a week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a more serious health issue.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual symptoms that are more severe than what you typically experience with the medication.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen; acting quickly can make a significant difference in your safety. Always keep emergency contact information handy, and remember that it’s better to be cautious when it comes to your health.

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

It's important to be cautious when using this medication for children. If your child is under 12 years old, you should not use this product. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours, using the dosing cup provided.

Always keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Your child's safety is the top priority, so please follow these guidelines carefully.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. Since older adults may have different health needs and may be taking multiple medications, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual health situation.

If you or a loved one is an older adult, be sure to discuss any concerns about potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to consult your doctor before using this medication, especially if you experience difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. This can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate for your condition.

Additionally, if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if you develop a fever, you should stop using the medication and seek medical advice. Monitoring your health and communicating with your healthcare provider is crucial for your safety and well-being.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication should be used if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your liver health. They can help determine the best course of action based on your individual situation.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious when taking certain medications together. For instance, you should not use this medication if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for two weeks after stopping an MAOI. Mixing these can lead to serious interactions that could affect your health.

Always discuss any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, with your healthcare provider. They can help ensure that your treatment is safe and effective, minimizing the risk of harmful interactions.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at a temperature of 25°C (77°F). It can safely be kept within a range of 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) for short periods. Always check the expiration date on the package and use the product before this date to guarantee its effectiveness.

When handling the product, make sure to maintain a clean environment to avoid contamination. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

If you are considering using this medication, it is important to know how to take it properly. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL taken every 4 hours using the dosing cup provided. However, this medication should not be used in children under 12 years of age.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, make sure to consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. Additionally, if you want to learn more about the potential for medicine abuse among teens, you can visit www.StopMedicineAbuse.org for more information.

FAQ

What is the drug used for?

This drug helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive. It temporarily relieves cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, the intensity of coughing, and nasal congestion due to a cold.

Who should not use this product?

Do not use this product if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI drug. Additionally, it is not recommended for children under 12 years.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop use and ask a doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, or if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or occur with fever.

What is the recommended dosage for adults and children over 12?

The recommended dosage is 20 mL in the dosing cup provided every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 doses in any 24-hour period.

What should I do in case of overdose?

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

Is it safe to use this product during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use.

How should I store this medication?

Store at 25°C (77°F), with permitted excursions between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Use by the expiration date on the package.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Severe Congestion and Cough.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the drug.

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 bothersome mucus and making coughs more productive.

Additionally, this drug temporarily relieves the intensity of coughing and the impulse to cough, aiding in sleep. It also alleviates nasal congestion associated with colds.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects reported for this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Patients should adhere strictly to the recommended dosage guidelines. The maximum allowable dosage is 6 doses within a 24-hour period. It is imperative that only the dosing cup provided with the medication is utilized for accurate measurement.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL, administered every 4 hours as needed.

This medication is not indicated for use in children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, use is contraindicated for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if uncertain whether their prescription contains an MAOI.

Exceeding the recommended dosage while using this product is also contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

It is imperative to adhere to the following warnings and precautions to ensure the safe use of this product.

Warnings The use of this product is contraindicated in individuals 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 two weeks following the cessation of an MAOI. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult with a doctor or pharmacist if there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in their prescription medications.

General Precautions Prior to using this product, patients should seek medical advice if they have any of the following conditions: high blood pressure, thyroid disease, difficulty urinating due to prostate gland enlargement, heart disease, diabetes, or a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, individuals experiencing a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) should also consult a healthcare professional.

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

Discontinuation and Consultation Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve within seven days or are accompanied by fever, or if a cough persists for more than one week, recurs, or is associated with fever, rash, or persistent headache, medical evaluation is warranted as these may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Side Effects

Patients should be advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or are accompanied by fever, medical attention is warranted. A persistent cough lasting more than one week, especially if it recurs or is associated with fever, rash, or a persistent headache, may indicate a serious underlying condition and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Drug Interactions

The use of this medication is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within two weeks of discontinuing an MAOI. Co-administration may result in serious interactions that could pose significant health risks.

No additional drug interactions or laboratory test interactions have been identified for this medication. Therefore, no further dosage adjustments or monitoring recommendations are necessary beyond the aforementioned contraindication.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Severe Congestion and Cough.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not use this medication. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL, administered every 4 hours using the dosing cup provided.

It is essential to keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in efficacy, 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. 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 safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

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 medication 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 should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they experience difficulty in urination due to enlargement of the prostate gland. It is important for patients to discontinue use and seek medical advice if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if they occur alongside fever. Monitoring and appropriate clinical evaluation are recommended to ensure patient safety and efficacy of treatment in this population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to this drug. 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 prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with the overdose.

Healthcare professionals should be vigilant in monitoring for symptoms that may arise from an overdose. While specific symptoms are not detailed in the provided information, it is essential to be aware that they can vary based on the substance involved and the individual patient’s response.

Management of an overdose typically involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment. The healthcare provider should assess the patient's condition and implement appropriate measures based on the severity of the overdose and the symptoms presented. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are recommended to ensure patient safety and effective management of the situation.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breast-feeding, 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

Postmarketing experience has identified the following adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs: nervousness, dizziness, and sleeplessness. These reactions may occur with the use of this product.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, patients should be instructed to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Patients should be informed that this product should not be used if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within two weeks of stopping an MAOI. If patients are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI, they should be encouraged to consult with their doctor or pharmacist prior to using this product.

Healthcare providers should instruct patients to discontinue use and seek medical advice if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, patients should be advised to stop using the product if their symptoms do not improve within seven days, or if they experience symptoms accompanied by fever. Patients should also be cautioned to seek medical attention if a cough persists for more than one week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious condition.

It is important to remind patients not to exceed the recommended dosage while using this product. Furthermore, healthcare providers should recommend that patients consult with a doctor before use if they have any of the following conditions: high blood pressure, thyroid disease, difficulty urinating due to prostate gland enlargement, heart disease, diabetes, or a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Patients should also be advised to seek medical advice if they have a cough that occurs with excessive phlegm (mucus).

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in packaging that includes specific NDC numbers. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 25°C (77°F). Temporary excursions are permissible between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). It is essential to adhere to the expiration date indicated on the package to ensure product efficacy and safety.

Additional Clinical Information

Patients should be informed that the medication is administered orally, with a recommended dosage of 20 mL every 4 hours for adults and children aged 12 years and older. It is contraindicated for children under 12 years. Clinicians are advised to counsel patients regarding the importance of consulting a healthcare professional if they are pregnant or breastfeeding before using the medication.

Additionally, information regarding the potential for medicine abuse, particularly among teenagers, can be found at www.StopMedicineAbuse.org. No further details are available regarding laboratory tests or postmarketing experiences.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Severe Congestion and Cough, 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 Severe Congestion and Cough, 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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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.