Guaifenesin/Dextromethorphan hydrobromide

Description

Guaifenesin 600 mg and Dextromethorphan HBr 30 mg are formulated as extended-release tablets designed for the management of cough and mucus associated with respiratory conditions. Each tablet provides a dual action, functioning as both an expectorant and a cough suppressant. The product is engineered for a 12-hour duration of action, offering both immediate and extended release of the active ingredients. The formulation aids in thinning and loosening mucus, thereby facilitating easier expectoration while effectively controlling cough. Each package contains 40 extended-release tablets.

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. The total daily dosage should not exceed 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. Additionally, it must not be administered to individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within two weeks of discontinuing such medication. MAOIs are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, and Parkinson's disease. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised prior to use.

Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and recommend that patients consult a physician before using this product if they have a persistent or chronic cough, particularly those associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, patients experiencing a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) should also seek medical advice prior to use.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if their cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Side Effects

Patients using this product may experience a range of adverse reactions. Serious adverse reactions have been noted, particularly in specific populations. It is contraindicated for children under 12 years of age. Additionally, the use of this product is not recommended for individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within two weeks of discontinuing such medication. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if they are uncertain whether their prescription includes an MAOI.

Common adverse reactions may include a persistent cough that lasts more than seven days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache. These symptoms could indicate a serious underlying condition, and patients are advised to discontinue use and seek medical advice if they experience these signs.

Patients with a history of persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should consult a healthcare provider before using this product. Additionally, those experiencing a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) should also seek medical guidance prior to use.

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, certain psychiatric conditions, or 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, to verify whether their current prescription includes an MAOI 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 is insufficient data to support its safety and efficacy in this age group. Therefore, healthcare professionals are advised to avoid prescribing this treatment to children younger than 12 years.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may exhibit increased sensitivity to the effects of dextromethorphan. Although geriatric use has not been specifically studied, it is important to consider that this increased sensitivity may necessitate careful monitoring and potential dose adjustments.

Due to the potential for reduced kidney function in elderly patients, dosage adjustments may be required to ensure safety and efficacy. Healthcare providers should assess renal function and consider individual patient factors when determining the appropriate dosage.

Caution is advised when administering this product to elderly patients, particularly those with underlying health conditions. Close monitoring for adverse effects and therapeutic response is recommended to mitigate risks associated with treatment in 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 considered in these populations to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus or infant.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data on 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 prescribing information 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 absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to 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 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. The national Poison Control Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that timely intervention is crucial in managing overdose situations. Symptoms of overdose may vary depending on the substance involved and the individual’s health status. Therefore, a thorough assessment and monitoring of the patient are essential.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the specific symptoms presented. It is recommended that healthcare providers remain vigilant and prepared to implement appropriate interventions based on the clinical presentation of the patient.

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

Reports of side effects have been received through voluntary submissions and surveillance programs. Patients and healthcare professionals are encouraged to report any adverse events associated with the use of the product to the designated contact number provided for this purpose.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, patients should be instructed to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients should be informed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their cough persists for more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

It is important to emphasize that patients should not exceed the recommended dosage when using this product. Additionally, healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult 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. Patients should also 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 for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°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. 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. It is contraindicated for use in children under 12 years of age.

No further 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)