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Guaifenesin

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Active ingredient
Guaifenesin 100 mg/5 mL
Other brand names
Drug class
Expectorant
Dosage form
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2024
Label revision date
January 5, 2026
Active ingredient
Guaifenesin 100 mg/5 mL
Other brand names
Drug class
Expectorant
Dosage form
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2024
Label revision date
January 5, 2026
Manufacturer
Oncor Pharmaceuticals
Registration number
M012
NDC root
83720-503

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Drug Overview

Guaifenesin is an oral solution that acts as an expectorant, which means it helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions. This action makes coughs more productive, allowing you to clear your airways more effectively. It is commonly used to relieve chest congestion, making it easier to breathe when you're feeling congested.

This medication is sugar-free and alcohol-free, and it comes in a pleasant cherry flavor, making it easier to take. Guaifenesin is available in a 100 mg/5 mL concentration, and the typical volume for this product is 16 fl. oz. (473 mL).

Uses

This medication is designed to help you if you're dealing with a cough that produces phlegm (a thick mucus). It works by loosening the phlegm and thinning out the secretions in your bronchial tubes, making it easier for you to cough up the mucus. This can help you breathe more comfortably and clear your airways more effectively.

You can feel confident using this medication, as there are no known teratogenic effects (which means it doesn't cause birth defects) associated with it.

Dosage and Administration

When using this medication, it's important to follow the correct dosage to ensure safety and effectiveness. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours, but remember not to exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period. If you're giving this medication to children aged 6 to under 12 years, the recommended dose is 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours.

For younger children, specifically those aged 2 to under 6 years, the dosage is 1/2 to 1 teaspoonful every 4 hours. If your child is under 2 years old, it's best to consult a doctor before administering the medication. Always keep track of how many doses you've given to avoid taking too much.

What to Avoid

If you are using this medication, it's important to be aware of certain situations where you should stop using it and consult your doctor. Specifically, if your cough lasts more than 7 days, returns after improvement, or is accompanied by symptoms like fever, rash, or a persistent headache, these could indicate a more serious health issue that needs attention.

Currently, there are no specific contraindications, controlled substance classifications, or concerns regarding abuse, misuse, or dependence associated with this medication. However, always prioritize your health and seek medical advice if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Side Effects

If you experience a cough that 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 serious condition. Additionally, if you have a cough with excessive mucus or a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, you should speak with a healthcare professional before using this medication.

In the event of an overdose, seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Warnings and Precautions

Before using this medication, it's important to consult your doctor if you have a cough that produces a lot of mucus or if your cough is chronic, which can happen with conditions like smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

You should stop using the medication and contact your doctor if your cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a more serious health issue.

Always keep this medication out of reach of children. If an overdose occurs, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual symptoms that are more severe than typical side effects.

Always err on the side of caution—if you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance. Your health and safety are the top priority.

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

When giving this medication to children, it's important to follow the recommended dosages based on their age. For children aged 6 years to under 12 years, you can administer 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours. For those aged 2 years to under 6 years, the dosage is ½ to 1 teaspoonful every 4 hours. If your child is under 2 years old, you should consult a doctor before giving this medication.

Always keep the medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Your child's safety is the top priority, so please follow these guidelines carefully.

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, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. 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 the information provided does not include specific guidelines for dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues). This means that there are no tailored recommendations for how your treatment may need to change based on your kidney function.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that your treatment is safe and effective for your specific condition. They can help determine the best approach for managing your health, especially if you have concerns about your kidneys.

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 differently due to your liver health.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your liver condition and how it relates to your treatment. They can help ensure that your medication is safe and effective for you.

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 feel free to ask questions and share your complete list of medications and any lab tests you may be undergoing. This way, you can receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, store it at a temperature between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the product's quality. Additionally, always check the foil seal under the cap before use; if the seal is broken or missing, do not use the product, as this indicates it may have been tampered with.

By following these simple storage and handling guidelines, you can help ensure that the product remains safe and effective for your use.

Additional Information

You will take this medication orally. There are no additional details available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experiences. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

FAQ

What is Guaifenesin?

Guaifenesin is an oral solution that acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to make coughs more productive.

What are the indications for using Guaifenesin?

Guaifenesin is indicated to help loosen phlegm and thin bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive.

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

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2-4 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours, not exceeding 6 doses in any 24-hour period.

What is the dosage for children aged 6 to under 12 years?

Children aged 6 to under 12 years should take 1-2 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours.

What is the dosage for children aged 2 to under 6 years?

Children aged 2 to under 6 years should take 1/2-1 teaspoonful every 4 hours.

What should I do if my child is under 2 years old?

If your child is under 2 years old, you should ask a doctor before use.

Are there any warnings associated with Guaifenesin?

Yes, you should stop use and ask a doctor if your cough lasts more than 7 days, comes back, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Is Guaifenesin safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

What are the storage instructions for Guaifenesin?

Store Guaifenesin at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F) and ensure the foil seal under the cap is intact before use.

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 specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the facilitation of mucus clearance in patients with respiratory conditions. It helps to loosen phlegm and thin bronchial secretions, thereby making coughs more productive.

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

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children aged 12 years and over are advised to take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours, not exceeding 6 doses within a 24-hour period. For children aged 6 years to under 12 years, the recommended dosage is 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours, also adhering to the maximum limit of 6 doses in a 24-hour period.

For children aged 2 years to under 6 years, the dosage is 1/2 to 1 teaspoonful every 4 hours, with the same restriction on the total number of doses. For infants under 2 years of age, it is recommended to consult a physician before administration.

Contraindications

There are no specific contraindications identified for this product. However, it is advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if a 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.

Warnings and Precautions

It is imperative that healthcare professionals advise patients to consult a physician prior to using this medication if they experience a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus) or if the cough is chronic, as seen in conditions such as smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and seek medical advice if their cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by additional symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that this medication is kept out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact with a Poison Control Center should be established without delay.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with the use of this medication. Serious adverse reactions may necessitate immediate medical attention. Patients are advised to stop use and consult a healthcare professional if a cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Additionally, patients should seek medical advice prior to use if they have a cough that occurs with excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they have a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to obtain medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. This guidance is essential to ensure patient safety and effective management of any adverse reactions that may arise.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with the use of this medication. Additionally, there is no information available regarding interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted 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 aged 6 years to under 12 years may be administered 1-2 teaspoonfuls every 4 hours. For children aged 2 years to under 6 years, the recommended dosage is 1/2-1 teaspoonful every 4 hours. For infants and children under 2 years, it is advised to consult a doctor before use.

It is essential to keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

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. 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 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 available prescribing information. There are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or safety considerations outlined for individuals with reduced kidney function. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of data when prescribing to this patient population.

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 and consider the overall clinical context when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, as individual responses may vary.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with the overdose.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that the specific symptoms of an overdose may vary depending on the substance involved. Therefore, a thorough assessment of the patient's condition is essential to determine the appropriate course of action.

Management of an overdose typically involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment. Continuous monitoring of the patient's vital signs and clinical status is recommended. In cases where the substance is known, specific antidotes or treatments may be indicated, and healthcare providers should refer to established guidelines for the management of the particular overdose scenario.

It is vital for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant and act swiftly in the event of an overdose to ensure the best possible outcomes for affected individuals.

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 question. Further studies may be necessary to elucidate these aspects of nonclinical toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Reports of side effects associated with the use of the product have been received through voluntary submissions and surveillance programs. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report any adverse events to Oncor Pharmaceuticals at 1-443-876-7600, available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST, or to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of an overdose. It is important for patients to be aware of the signs that warrant discontinuation of the medication; they should stop use and consult a doctor if their cough persists for more than 7 days, returns after resolution, 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 their doctor prior to using the medication if they have a cough that is associated with excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they have a chronic cough related to conditions such as smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. This precaution is essential to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a configuration that ensures tamper evidence through a foil seal located under the cap. It is imperative that the product is not used if the foil seal is broken or missing.

For optimal storage, the product should be maintained at a temperature range of 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). Proper adherence to these storage conditions is essential to ensure the integrity and efficacy of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. There are no additional details available regarding laboratory tests, abuse information, 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)

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.

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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.