Guaifenesin

Description

Guaifenesin Extended-Release Tablets contain 600 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 sustained therapeutic effects.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the relief of chest congestion by helping to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions. It facilitates the clearance of bothersome mucus from the bronchial passageways, thereby making coughs more productive. The formulation provides both immediate and extended release of its active ingredients, ensuring sustained therapeutic effects.

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

Dosage and Administration

Patients should take the tablets with a full glass of water. It is important to note that the tablets must not be crushed, chewed, or broken prior to administration. This product can be taken without regard for the timing of meals.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 or 2 tablets every 12 hours. The total daily dosage should not exceed 4 tablets within a 24-hour period.

This product is not recommended 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 with a cough that is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) should seek medical advice before initiating treatment.

Patients are 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, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt action is essential to ensure patient safety and appropriate management of the situation.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with the use of this medication. It is contraindicated for 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 the cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

Patients should discontinue use and seek medical advice if the 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 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

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. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in efficacy.

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 healthcare professional prior to using this medication. There is no specific data available regarding 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 and monitoring of these patients.

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. Healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers to call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Prompt intervention is crucial in managing overdose situations, as timely medical help can significantly influence outcomes. 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 should be initiated based on the specific circumstances of the overdose, including the substance taken, the amount, and the time elapsed since ingestion. Healthcare providers are encouraged to follow established protocols for overdose management, which may include supportive care, symptomatic treatment, and, if appropriate, the use of antidotes.

In summary, immediate action and professional guidance are critical in the event of an overdose to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected individual.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No information is available regarding teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects. Additionally, there is no data provided concerning nonclinical toxicology, animal pharmacology, or toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Reports of side effects have been received through voluntary submissions and surveillance programs. Individuals are encouraged to report any adverse events to the designated phone number provided for this purpose.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients 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 to inform patients that this medication is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor 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.

Additionally, healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult with a doctor prior to using this 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. Healthcare professionals should ensure that the carton is not used if it is open or if the printed seal on the blister is broken or missing.

For optimal storage conditions, the product should be maintained at a temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Proper adherence to these storage guidelines is essential to ensure 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 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, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)