Guaifenesin

Description

Guaifenesin Extended-Release Tablets contain 1200 mg of guaifenesin, an expectorant indicated for the relief of chest congestion. This formulation is designed to thin and loosen mucus, facilitating easier expectoration. The tablets provide both immediate and extended release of the active ingredient, ensuring prolonged therapeutic effects. Each bottle contains 28 extended-release tablets, suitable for managing symptoms associated with respiratory conditions.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the relief of chest congestion and to assist in the loosening and thinning of phlegm (mucus) and bronchial secretions. By facilitating the clearance of bothersome mucus, this medication enhances the productivity of coughs, thereby aiding in the management of respiratory conditions characterized by excessive mucus production.

The drug is available in both immediate and extended-release formulations, providing flexibility in dosing to meet patient needs.

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

Dosage and Administration

The tablet should be taken whole; it must not be crushed, chewed, or broken. It is recommended to administer the tablet with a full glass of water. This product can be taken without regard to the timing of meals.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 tablet every 12 hours. The maximum allowable dosage is 2 tablets within a 24-hour period.

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

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age due to safety concerns associated with this population. No other contraindications have been specified.

Warnings and Precautions

The use of this medication is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a physician prior to use if they have a persistent or chronic cough, particularly those associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Additionally, patients experiencing a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) should seek medical advice before initiating treatment.

Patients must be instructed to discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider if the 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, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt action is essential to ensure patient safety and appropriate management of overdose situations.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with this medication. It is contraindicated for use in children under 12 years of age. Prior to use, patients are advised to consult a healthcare professional if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as that which occurs with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or if their cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

Patients should discontinue use and seek medical advice 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.

Drug Interactions

There are no specific drug interactions identified in the available data. Additionally, no laboratory test interactions have been reported. Therefore, no dosage adjustments or monitoring recommendations are necessary based on the current information.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Guaifenesin. Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not use this medication. Safety and efficacy have not been established in this age group, and therefore, it is contraindicated for children in this range. Healthcare professionals are advised to consider alternative treatments for pediatric patients under 12.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information 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. Monitoring for potential adverse effects and therapeutic efficacy is recommended 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, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to discuss their individual circumstances with a healthcare provider 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 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 and monitoring.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of 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. Healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers to call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for expert guidance.

Prompt 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 to determine the appropriate course of action.

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

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

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 the 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.

It is important to inform patients that this medication is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age. Patients should be counseled 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 illness.

Additionally, healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor before using the medication if they have a persistent or chronic cough 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 tamper-evident packaging. It should not be used if the carton is open or if the printed seal on the blister is broken or missing.

For optimal storage, the product must be kept at a temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Proper handling and storage conditions are essential to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is one tablet every 12 hours, with a maximum of two tablets in 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, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)