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Guaifenesin

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Active ingredient
Guaifenesin 600 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 2020
Label revision date
November 7, 2025
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredient
Guaifenesin 600 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 2020
Label revision date
November 7, 2025
Manufacturer
WALGREEN CO.
Registration number
ANDA210453
NDC root
0363-0028
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

GUAIFENESIN is an expectorant, which means it helps to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions. This action makes it easier for you to clear mucus from your airways, leading to more productive coughs and relief from chest congestion. GUAIFENESIN is commonly found in products like Mucinex and is available in extended-release tablets of 600 mg, designed to provide relief for up to 12 hours.

By thinning and loosening mucus, GUAIFENESIN can help you breathe more easily and feel more comfortable when dealing with respiratory issues.

Uses

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

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 extended-release tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or break it, as this can affect how the medicine works. Make sure to take it with a full glass of water, and you can take it at any time, regardless of meals.

For adults and children aged 12 and older, the recommended dose is 1 or 2 extended-release tablets every 12 hours. However, you should not take more than 4 tablets in a 24-hour period. If you are caring for a child under 12 years old, please do not use this medication for them. Always follow these guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

It's important to be aware of certain guidelines when using this medication. You should stop using it and consult your doctor if your cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, 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 noted risks of abuse, misuse, or dependence associated with this medication. However, always prioritize your health and seek medical advice if you have any concerns.

Side Effects

If you are considering using this medication, it's important to be aware of some potential side effects and warnings. You should not use this medication if you are under 12 years of age. Additionally, if your cough lasts more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, you should stop using it and consult a doctor, as these may indicate a more serious condition.

Before using this medication, talk to your doctor if you have a persistent or chronic cough due to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or if your cough is accompanied by excessive mucus. Being informed can help ensure your safety and well-being while using this product.

Warnings and Precautions

It’s important to know that this medication should not be used in 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 occurs alongside a fever, rash, or 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 an overdose, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help.

In case of an emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital. Always keep medications out of reach of children and follow the prescribed dosage to prevent any potential risks. If you have any concerns or questions about your medication, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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 is at least 12 years old 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

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. Since older adults may have different health needs and may be taking multiple medications, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual health situation.

If you or a loved one is an older adult, be sure to discuss any concerns about potential side effects or interactions with other medications you may be taking. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.

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 discuss any concerns regarding your liver health and how it may relate to your treatment. They can help ensure that you receive the safest and most effective care.

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 best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the device.

When handling the product, be sure to do so with clean hands and in a sterile environment to prevent contamination. Always follow any specific disposal instructions provided to ensure safe and responsible disposal of any components.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally, with adults and children aged 12 and older typically using 1 or 2 extended-release tablets every 12 hours. It's important not to exceed 4 extended-release tablets in a 24-hour period to ensure safe use. If you have any questions about your treatment or how to take this medication, be sure to consult your healthcare provider.

FAQ

What is GUAIFENESIN used for?

GUAIFENESIN is an expectorant that helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive and relieving chest congestion.

How should I take GUAIFENESIN?

You should take 1 or 2 extended-release tablets every 12 hours with a full glass of water, and do not exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours.

Who should not use GUAIFENESIN?

GUAIFENESIN should not be used by children under 12 years of age.

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

You should stop using GUAIFENESIN and ask a doctor if your cough lasts more than 7 days, comes back, or occurs with fever, rash, or persistent headache.

Are there any teratogenic effects associated with GUAIFENESIN?

No teratogenic effects are mentioned for GUAIFENESIN.

Can I take GUAIFENESIN if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

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

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.

What is the storage requirement for GUAIFENESIN?

You should store GUAIFENESIN between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F).

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 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

The extended-release 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 medication can be taken without regard to the timing of meals.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 1 or 2 extended-release tablets every 12 hours. The total daily dosage should not exceed 4 extended-release 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. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.

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 a 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 that the use of this medication is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. In clinical practice, 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.

Additionally, patients are encouraged to seek medical advice prior to using this medication if they have a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. It is also important to consult a healthcare provider if the cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus). These precautions are essential to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with the use of this medication. Additionally, there are no known 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 under 12 years of age should not be administered this medication. There are no established safety or efficacy profiles for this age group, and its use is contraindicated in children younger than 12 years.

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. 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 weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing 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 available 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 advisable in this patient population.

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 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 data is not available, healthcare professionals should exercise caution, remain observant for potential overdose symptoms, and implement appropriate management strategies as needed.

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 after improvement, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these 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 various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature range of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) to maintain its efficacy and stability. Proper storage conditions should be ensured to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with a recommended dosage for adults and children aged 12 years and older being 1 or 2 extended-release tablets every 12 hours. The total daily dosage should not exceed 4 extended-release tablets within a 24-hour period. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experiences.

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.