Guaifenesin/Dextromethorphan hydrobromide

Description

NDC 41415-999-14 identifies a formulation of mucusreliefDM, which consists of guaifenesin 1200 mg and dextromethorphan HBr 60 mg per extended-release tablet. This product is designed as a maximum strength expectorant and cough suppressant, providing both immediate and extended release of its active ingredients over a 12-hour period. The dosage form comprises 14 extended-release tablets, which are intended to thin and loosen mucus while effectively controlling cough. This formulation is comparable to the active ingredients found in Mucinex® DM Maximum Strength.

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.

No teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects have been reported.

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 one extended-release tablet every 12 hours. The total daily dosage should not exceed two 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 essential to adhere to the recommended dosage guidelines, as exceeding the directed use may lead to adverse effects.

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. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor or pharmacist if there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in their current prescription regimen.

General precautions should be observed prior to use. Patients should be advised to seek medical consultation if they have a persistent or chronic cough, particularly if it is associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, individuals experiencing a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) should also consult a healthcare provider before using this product.

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 should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional 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 should be aware of the following adverse reactions associated with the use of this product.

Serious adverse reactions may occur, particularly in specific populations. The product is contraindicated for children under 12 years of age. Additionally, it should not be used in conjunction with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Patients must 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 prescription medication, patients are advised to consult a healthcare professional.

Common adverse reactions may include persistent or chronic cough, especially in individuals with underlying conditions such as smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Patients experiencing a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) should seek medical advice prior to using this product.

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

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, certain psychiatric disorders, emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Patients should not initiate therapy with this medication while currently taking an MAOI or within 14 days following the discontinuation of an MAOI. This precaution is essential to avoid potentially serious interactions that may arise from the pharmacodynamic effects of both drug classes.

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. Safety and efficacy have not been established in this age group, and its use is contraindicated for children in this category.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients should consult a healthcare provider prior to use, particularly if they have a persistent or chronic cough associated with conditions such as smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

It is important to note that geriatric patients may exhibit reduced kidney function, which could require dosage adjustments to ensure safety and efficacy. Additionally, increased sensitivity to side effects may be observed in this population, necessitating careful monitoring and consideration of potential adverse reactions.

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 it is essential to monitor the patient closely for any signs of adverse reactions.

Management of an overdose typically involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment. Healthcare providers should ensure that the patient is stabilized and may need to implement specific protocols based on the substance taken. Continuous assessment and monitoring of vital signs are recommended to guide further treatment decisions.

In summary, prompt action and appropriate medical intervention are vital in the management of overdose cases to mitigate potential complications and ensure patient safety.

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

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs. These include allergic reactions such as rash, pruritus, and urticaria. Additionally, cases of dizziness, nausea, and vomiting have been documented. Reports of confusion and hallucinations have also been noted. Furthermore, instances of respiratory depression and serotonin syndrome, particularly when the product is used in conjunction with other serotonergic drugs, have been observed.

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 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 within a temperature range of 68-77°F (20-25°C) to maintain its efficacy and stability. Proper storage conditions should be observed to ensure the integrity of the product throughout its shelf life.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with the recommended dosage for adults and children aged 12 years and older being one extended-release tablet every 12 hours, not to exceed two 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 experiences.

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)