Guaifenesin/Dextromethorphan hydrobromide

Description

Dextromethorphan HBr, at a dosage of 30 mg per tablet, serves as a cough suppressant, while Guaifenesin, at 600 mg, functions as an expectorant. The formulation is presented in the form of extended-release tablets, designed to provide sustained relief over a 12-hour period. This combination effectively alleviates cough and chest congestion by thinning and loosening mucus. The actual size of the extended-release tablets is consistent with standard tablet dimensions.

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 aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, thereby facilitating the expulsion of bothersome mucus and enhancing the productivity of coughs.

Additionally, this drug temporarily alleviates the intensity of coughing and reduces the impulse to cough, which may assist patients in achieving restful sleep.

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

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

The use of this product is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age. Healthcare professionals should ensure that patients are aware of this restriction to prevent potential adverse effects in younger populations.

Patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease, should not use this product. Additionally, it is essential to refrain from using this product for at least two weeks after discontinuing an MAOI. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a patient's current medication regimen, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist prior to use.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and seek medical advice 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 more serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought. Patients or caregivers should contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 without delay to ensure appropriate management of the situation.

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. Patients are advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether their prescription includes an MAOI.

Before using this medication, patients should seek medical advice 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 product 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 take this product while on MAOIs or for a minimum of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI.

It is essential for patients to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, if there is any uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in their current prescription medications before initiating treatment with this product.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of 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 have specific geriatric use information available in the prescribing information. There are no recommended age considerations, dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions outlined for this population. Healthcare providers should exercise clinical judgment when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients, considering individual patient factors and potential age-related physiological changes. Monitoring for efficacy and safety is advised, as the absence of specific data does not preclude the need for careful assessment in elderly individuals.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is important to evaluate the potential risks and benefits associated with the use of this drug during pregnancy and lactation. Healthcare providers should consider the available data and individual patient circumstances when advising on the use of this medication in these populations.

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 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.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in clinical trials for this medication. Consequently, there is no available information regarding 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 warranted based on clinical judgment.

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 and adhere to general principles of management in cases of suspected overdosage.

Recommended Actions In the event of an overdosage, it is essential for healthcare providers to assess the patient's clinical status and initiate appropriate supportive care. Monitoring of vital signs and symptomatic treatment should be implemented as necessary.

Potential Symptoms While specific symptoms of overdosage are not detailed, healthcare professionals should remain vigilant for any unusual or severe reactions that may arise, given the pharmacological profile of the medication.

Management Procedures Healthcare professionals are encouraged to consult local poison control centers or relevant toxicology resources for guidance on the management of overdosage cases. It is critical to provide comprehensive care tailored to the individual patient's needs, including potential interventions based on the severity of symptoms observed.

In summary, due to the lack of specific overdosage information, a cautious and informed approach is recommended for the management of any suspected cases.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breast-feeding, it is advised to consult a health professional before 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 several adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs.

Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been documented. Serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, have also been reported. Additionally, neuropsychiatric events, including hallucinations, agitation, and confusion, have been observed.

Respiratory depression has been noted, particularly in patients with underlying respiratory conditions. Furthermore, there is a potential for abuse and dependence, especially with higher doses or prolonged use.

Patient Counseling

Patients should be advised 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 understand that they should discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if their cough persists for more than 7 days, returns after improvement, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Healthcare providers should emphasize the importance of adhering to the recommended dosage and instruct patients not to exceed the directed amount when using this product. Additionally, patients should be encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider 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 advice 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 upon request. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Care should be taken to ensure that the product is kept within this temperature range to maintain its integrity and efficacy.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 or 2 tablets every 12 hours, with a maximum of 4 tablets in a 24-hour period. It is contraindicated for use in children under 12 years of age. No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan Hbr, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)