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Guaifenesin

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Active ingredient
Guaifenesin 1200 mg
Other brand names
Drug class
Expectorant
Dosage form
Tablet, Extended Release
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
December 19, 2025
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredient
Guaifenesin 1200 mg
Other brand names
Drug class
Expectorant
Dosage form
Tablet, Extended Release
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
December 19, 2025
Manufacturer
CVS PHARMACY, INC
Registration number
ANDA213420
NDC root
69842-335
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info (3 NDCs)
Packaging & NDC Codes (3)

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

This medication is designed to help loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making it easier for you to clear mucus from your airways. By aiding in the removal of bothersome mucus, it helps make your coughs more productive, allowing for better breathing and comfort.

Uses

This medication is designed to help you breathe easier by loosening phlegm (a type of mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions. By doing so, it helps clear out the bronchial passageways, making your coughs more productive. This can be particularly helpful if you're dealing with congestion or respiratory issues.

Rest assured, there are no known teratogenic effects (which means it doesn't cause birth defects) associated with this medication, making it a safer option for those concerned about such risks.

Dosage and Administration

When taking this medication, it's important to swallow the tablet whole—do not crush, chew, or break it. Make sure to take it with a full glass of water, which helps with absorption. You can take this medication at any time, regardless of your meal schedule.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is one tablet every 12 hours. However, you should not take more than two tablets in a 24-hour period. If you have children under 12 years old, this medication is not suitable for them, so please avoid using it for that age group.

What to Avoid

If you are using this medication, it's important to know when to stop. You should stop using it and consult your doctor if your cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by a fever, rash, or a persistent headache. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that needs medical attention.

Currently, there are no specific contraindications, controlled substance classifications, or concerns regarding abuse, misuse, or dependence associated with this medication. Always prioritize your health and safety by following these guidelines.

Side Effects

You should be aware that this medication is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. If your cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, it’s important to stop using the medication and consult a doctor, as these symptoms could indicate a more serious condition.

Before using this medication, talk to your doctor if you have a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or if your cough produces excessive mucus.

Warnings and Precautions

It's important to know that this medication should not be used for children under 12 years of age. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

You should stop taking this medication and call your doctor if your cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache. These symptoms could indicate a more serious health issue that needs attention.

Overdose

It appears that there is no specific information available regarding overdosage for this medication. However, it's always important to be aware of the signs of an overdose, which can include symptoms like extreme drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect that you or someone else may have taken too much of a medication, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help.

In case of an overdose, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital right away. Having the medication packaging or details about the dosage taken can be very helpful for medical professionals. Always remember that when it comes to medications, it's better to be safe and get help if you have any concerns.

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

It is important to note that this medication should not be used in children under 12 years of age. If you are a parent or caregiver, please ensure that your child meets this age requirement before considering this treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about the appropriate use of this medication for your child.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult considering this medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that your medication dosage may need to be adjusted. Regular monitoring of your kidney function tests is essential to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment. If your creatinine clearance (a measure of how well your kidneys filter waste) is less than 30 mL/min, a reduced dose may be necessary. Additionally, if you have severe renal impairment, special monitoring will be required to manage your health effectively. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and adjustments based on your kidney function.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to use this medication with caution. Depending on the severity of your liver condition, you may need to adjust your dosage, especially if you have moderate to severe hepatic impairment (a condition where the liver does not function properly).

Additionally, if you have pre-existing liver disease, your healthcare provider will likely monitor your liver function tests (tests that check how well your liver is working) periodically. In cases of significant liver dysfunction, a reduced dose may be considered to ensure your safety while using this medication. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and adjustments.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you. Always share your complete list of medications and any recent lab tests to avoid any potential issues. Your health and safety should always come first.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, always check that the carton is sealed and the blister pack's printed seal is intact before use. If either is broken or missing, do not use the product.

For proper storage, keep the product in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This helps maintain its quality and effectiveness. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What does this drug do?

This drug helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive and aiding in ridding the bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus.

What is the recommended dosage for adults and children over 12?

Adults and children 12 years of age and over should take 1 tablet every 12 hours, not exceeding 2 tablets in 24 hours.

Can children under 12 use this drug?

No, this drug should not be used for children under 12 years of age.

What should I do if my cough lasts more than 7 days?

You should stop use and ask a doctor if your cough lasts more than 7 days, comes back, or occurs with fever, rash, or persistent headache, as these could be signs of a serious illness.

Are there any teratogenic effects associated with this drug?

No teratogenic effects are mentioned for this drug.

What should I do if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

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

How should I take this medication?

You should take this medication with a full glass of water and do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away at 1-800-222-1222.

Are there any specific storage instructions for this drug?

Yes, store the drug between 20-25°C (68-77°F) and do not use if the carton is open or if the printed seal on the blister is broken or missing.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Guaifenesin.
Details

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)

Description

No description information is available for the drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the facilitation of mucus clearance in patients experiencing excessive bronchial secretions. It helps to loosen phlegm and thin bronchial secretions, thereby enhancing the productivity of coughs and aiding in the clearance of bothersome mucus from the bronchial passageways.

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

Dosage and Administration

Patients should take the tablet whole, without crushing, chewing, or breaking it. It is recommended to ingest the tablet with a full glass of water. This medication can be administered 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 total daily dosage should not exceed 2 tablets within a 24-hour period.

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

Contraindications

Use is contraindicated in patients who experience a cough lasting more than 7 days, a recurrent cough, or a cough accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache. In such cases, it is advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Warnings and Precautions

Patients should not use this medication in children under 12 years of age due to safety concerns.

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Patients are instructed to discontinue use and consult a 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 serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation and management.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with the use of this medication. Serious adverse reactions may occur, and it is advised that patients do not use this medication if they are under 12 years of age.

Patients are instructed to stop use and consult a healthcare professional if their cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Additionally, patients should seek medical advice before using this medication if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Coughs accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) should also prompt consultation with a healthcare provider prior to use.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there are no known interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are necessary at this time.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Guaifenesin.
Details

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 use is contraindicated. Healthcare professionals are advised to consider alternative treatments for children in this age range.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any potential 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, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and lactation. Healthcare providers should consider individual circumstances and the specific needs of the patient when making recommendations.

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

Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with reduced renal function. It is important to monitor renal function tests regularly in patients with known kidney problems. A reduced dose should be considered for patients with a creatinine clearance of less than 30 mL/min. Additionally, special monitoring is required for patients with severe renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment

Use of the medication in patients with hepatic impairment requires caution. For patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment, dosage adjustments may be necessary to ensure safety and efficacy. It is recommended that liver function tests be monitored periodically in patients with pre-existing liver disease to assess their liver function status. In cases of significant hepatic dysfunction, consideration should be given to reducing the dose to mitigate potential risks associated with impaired liver function.

Overdosage

In the absence of specific overdosage information, it is essential for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant regarding the potential for overdose with this medication. In cases where an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Healthcare providers are advised to monitor patients closely for any signs or symptoms that may indicate an overdose. These may include, but are not limited to, increased severity of known side effects, unusual behavioral changes, or any other atypical clinical manifestations.

Management of an overdose should be guided by the clinical presentation of the patient. Supportive care is paramount, and symptomatic treatment should be initiated as necessary. It is recommended that healthcare professionals consult local poison control centers or relevant toxicology resources for specific guidance on the management of overdose cases.

In summary, while specific overdosage information is not available, healthcare professionals should exercise caution, monitor for symptoms, and provide appropriate supportive care in the event of an overdose.

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

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Patients should be advised to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 in the event of an overdose.

Healthcare providers should instruct patients 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 for patients to consult with their healthcare provider prior to use if they have a persistent or chronic cough, particularly if it is associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

Additionally, patients should be encouraged to seek medical advice before using the product 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

No further data are available.

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)

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 Guaifenesin, 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

Last AI update:

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.