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Leader 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 2020
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 2020
Label revision date
December 18, 2024
Manufacturer
Cardinal Health
Registration number
M012
NDC root
70000-0056

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Drug Overview

If you're dealing with a cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, such as that from a common cold, this medication can provide temporary relief. 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. This can help make your coughs more productive, allowing you to breathe more comfortably.

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 10, 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 this medication.

Make sure not to exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period, unless your doctor advises otherwise. This helps ensure safe and effective use of the medication. Always follow these guidelines to manage your or your child's symptoms effectively.

What to Avoid

It's important to be aware of certain situations where you should stop using this medication and consult your doctor. If you experience symptoms like fever, rash, or a persistent headache, it's crucial to seek medical advice. Additionally, if your cough lasts more than a week or keeps coming back, this could indicate a more serious health issue, and you should reach out to your healthcare provider.

While there are no specific contraindications or concerns about abuse, misuse, or dependence mentioned, always prioritize your health and safety by following these guidelines.

Side Effects

You should be aware of some important warnings and potential side effects when using this medication. First, do not take it if you are currently using a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication often prescribed for depression or certain other conditions. If you’re unsure whether your medication is an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If you experience symptoms like fever, rash, or a persistent headache while using this product, stop taking it and contact your doctor. Additionally, if your cough lasts more than a week or keeps coming back, it could indicate a more serious issue, so it's important to seek medical advice. If you have a chronic cough due to smoking, asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema, or if your cough comes with a lot of mucus, talk to your doctor before using this medication.

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 often prescribed for depression or certain other conditions. If you have recently stopped taking an MAOI, wait at least two weeks before using this product. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

It's important to keep this product out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Center right away. You should also stop using the product and call 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's essential to consult your doctor, as this could indicate a more serious issue.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it's important to stay calm and take immediate action. While there are no specific signs or symptoms listed for an overdose, you should be aware of general warning signs such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms or feel something is wrong, seek medical help right away.

In case of an overdose, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital. It's always better to be safe and get checked by a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about 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

If your child is between 6 to 10 years old, they can take half a tablet every four hours as needed. However, if your child is under 6 years old, it's important to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. Always ensure you follow these guidelines to keep your child safe and healthy.

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. If you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s always a good idea to discuss any medications with a healthcare provider. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate, considering any unique health needs or conditions that may be present.

Since there are no dosage adjustments or special precautions mentioned for elderly patients, your healthcare provider will be the best resource for personalized advice. Always keep them informed about any other medications or health issues to help manage your care effectively.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney 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 usual recommendations for monitoring or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues) are not provided.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medications you take are safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can help you understand how your condition may affect your treatment plan.

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 may affect you 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 monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Drug Interactions

It's crucial to be aware of potential interactions when taking medications. If you are currently using a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication often prescribed for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease, you should not use this product. Additionally, you should wait at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI before starting this medication. 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 harmful interactions. Your health is important, and your provider can help you make informed decisions about your treatment.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance and safety of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). This temperature range helps maintain the integrity of the device.

When handling the product, be sure to follow any specific instructions provided to avoid contamination or damage. Always keep the product in a clean environment to ensure it remains safe for use. If you have any questions about disposal or further handling, consult the guidelines provided with your product.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. For adults and children aged 12 and over, the recommended dose is 1 tablet every 4 hours as needed. If you are giving this medication to children aged 6 to 10, the dose is 1/2 tablet every 4 hours as needed. For children under 6 years old, it’s important to consult a doctor before administering the medication.

FAQ

What does this medication do?

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

What is the recommended dosage for adults?

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 10?

Children aged 6 to 10 years should take 1/2 tablet every 4 hours as needed.

What should I do if my child is under 6 years old?

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

Are there any contraindications for this medication?

No specific contraindications are mentioned in the provided text.

What should I do if my symptoms persist?

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

Can I use this medication if I am taking an MAOI?

Do not use this medication if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI.

What precautions should I take?

Keep this medication out of reach of children and seek medical help in case of overdose.

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

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

What is the storage condition for this medication?

Store the medication at 15°-30°C (59°-86°F).

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Leader Chest Congestion Relief.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Description

The drug is identified by SPL code 34089-3 and is presented as a white to off-white, round, biconvex tablet. The tablet is debossed with "XYZ" on one side and "123" on the opposite side. Each tablet contains 500 mg of the active ingredient. Inactive ingredients consist of lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, and magnesium stearate.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur with a common cold. It assists in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, thereby 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 10 years, the recommended dosage is 1/2 tablet every 4 hours as needed. It is essential that parents or guardians consult a doctor for children under 6 years of age before administration.

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

Contraindications

There are no specified contraindications for the use of this product. However, it is advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms are accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache. Additionally, if a cough persists for more than one week or tends to recur, it may indicate a serious underlying condition, warranting further evaluation.

Warnings and Precautions

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

Contraindications This product must not be used concurrently with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, it should not be used for at least two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult their doctor or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

General Precautions This product should be kept out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Center.

Monitoring and Consultation Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache. Furthermore, if a cough persists for more than one week or tends to recur, it is essential to seek medical advice, as this may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Emergency Situations In cases of overdose, immediate medical help should be sought, or a Poison Center should be contacted without delay.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with the use of this product. Serious adverse reactions may occur, particularly in patients who are currently taking or have recently discontinued a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). It is crucial that patients do not use this product if they are taking an MAOI or for at least two weeks after stopping such medication. Patients are advised to consult their doctor or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether their prescription drug contains an MAOI.

In addition to serious reactions, patients should discontinue use and seek medical advice if symptoms are accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache. Furthermore, if a cough persists for more than one week or tends to recur, it may indicate a serious underlying condition, warranting further evaluation.

Patients with a history of persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema, should consult their doctor before using this product. Additionally, if the cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus), medical advice should be sought 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 or emotional conditions, and Parkinson's disease. Patients should not use this product while taking an MAOI or for a minimum of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI.

It is essential for patients to consult with their healthcare provider or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI before using this product. This precaution is critical to avoid potential adverse effects associated with the interaction.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Leader Chest Congestion Relief.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients aged 6 to 10 years may take 1/2 tablet every 4 hours as needed. For children under 6 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor prior to administration.

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. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits associated with its use during pregnancy and lactation. The safety of this medication in pregnant women has not been established, and caution is advised to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the fetus.

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

There is no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with renal impairment. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing to patients with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be warranted in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

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, 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.

Additionally, it is recommended to consult local poison control centers or relevant toxicology resources for guidance on specific management protocols and antidotes, if applicable.

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

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the use of the compound in these contexts.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Patients should be advised to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Center immediately.

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

Patients should also be encouraged to consult their healthcare provider before using this medication if they have a persistent or chronic cough, particularly if it is associated with smoking, asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, it is important to advise patients to seek medical guidance 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 temperature range of 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°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 one tablet every four hours as needed. For children aged 6 to 10 years, the dosage is half a tablet every four hours as needed. It is advised that parents or guardians consult a doctor for children under 6 years of age regarding appropriate dosing.

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 Leader 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 Leader 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.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

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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.