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Walgreens Maximum Strength Severe Congestion and Cough

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Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2023
Label revision date
December 1, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2023
Label revision date
December 1, 2025
Manufacturer
WALGREEN COMPANY
Registration number
M012
NDC root
0363-7760

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Drug Overview

WAG Maximum Strength Severe Congestion & Cough is a medication designed to help you manage symptoms associated with colds and respiratory irritants. It works by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, making it easier to clear your airways and produce a more effective cough. This product temporarily relieves cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, as well as nasal congestion.

The formula includes Dextromethorphan HBr, which acts as a cough suppressant, Guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps thin and loosen mucus, and Phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant that alleviates nasal congestion. Together, these ingredients help control coughing and relieve both nasal and chest congestion, providing you with relief when you need it most.

Uses

This medication is designed to help you breathe easier by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions. This action helps clear out bothersome mucus from your airways, making your coughs more productive.

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, which can happen with the common cold or from inhaling irritants. It also helps reduce the intensity of your cough and relieve nasal congestion associated with a cold, allowing you to cough less frequently.

Dosage and Administration

When taking this medication, it's important to follow the dosing instructions carefully to ensure your safety and effectiveness. You should measure your dose using only the dosing cup that comes with the medication, as using a different cup can lead to incorrect dosing. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours, but remember not to exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period.

If you have children under 12 years of age, this medication is not suitable for them, so please avoid using it for that age group. Always consult with your doctor if you have any questions or need further guidance on how to use this medication properly.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication used for depression, psychiatric, or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, do not use this product for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. If you're unsure whether your prescription includes an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

It's also important to follow the dosage instructions carefully. Do not exceed the recommended amount when using this product, as misuse can lead to serious health issues. Always prioritize your safety and well-being by adhering to these guidelines.

Side Effects

You should be aware of some potential side effects when using this medication. If you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, it's important to stop using the product and consult a doctor. Additionally, if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, or if you develop a fever, or if your cough returns with a rash or a lasting headache, these could indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

It's crucial not to use this medication if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one in the past two weeks, as this can lead to serious interactions. Before using this product, consult your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or a persistent cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema.

Warnings and Precautions

You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication for depression or certain other conditions, or if you have stopped taking an MAOI within the last two weeks. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Before using this product, it's important to talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or a persistent cough related to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. You should seek emergency medical help immediately if you suspect an overdose by contacting a Poison Control Center at (1-800-222-1222).

If you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, or if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days or are accompanied by a fever, you should stop using the product and call your doctor. Additionally, if your cough returns or is accompanied by a rash or a lasting headache, these could indicate a more serious issue, and you should seek medical advice.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

Always err on the side of caution—if you notice any concerning symptoms or if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Your safety is the top priority, so getting prompt medical attention is essential.

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’s important to be cautious when considering this medication for children. If your child is under 12 years old, you should not use this medication for them. For those who are 12 years of age and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL, taken every 4 hours using the dosing cup provided. Always ensure you follow these guidelines to keep your child safe.

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. If you or a loved one is an older adult, always consult with a healthcare provider before starting a new medication. They can help determine the right dosage and ensure that it is safe based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken.

Remember, older adults may have different responses to medications, so regular check-ins with your healthcare team are essential to monitor for any side effects or changes in health.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if your kidneys are not functioning properly.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can help monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to 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).

Before starting any new medication, including this one, you should discuss your liver health with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach for your treatment and ensure your safety.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious when taking certain medications together. If you are currently using a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), or if you have stopped taking one within the last two weeks, you should avoid using this medication. Combining these can lead to serious interactions that may affect your health.

Always discuss any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, with your healthcare provider. They can help ensure that your treatment is safe and effective, and they can provide guidance on any potential interactions.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at room temperature. It's important to avoid refrigerating it, as this can affect its effectiveness. When handling the product, make sure to do so in a clean environment to maintain its integrity and safety. Always follow any specific disposal instructions provided to ensure safe and responsible disposal.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally, using the provided dosing cup. For adults and children aged 12 and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours. However, it is important not to use this medication for children under 12 years of age.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. Always keep it out of reach of children. In case of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

FAQ

What is WAG Maximum Strength Severe Congestion & Cough used for?

WAG Maximum Strength Severe Congestion & Cough helps loosen phlegm and thin bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive. It temporarily relieves cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, nasal congestion, and helps you cough less.

What are the active ingredients in this medication?

This medication contains Dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), Guaifenesin (an expectorant), and Phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant).

Who should not use this product?

Do not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. If unsure, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

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

Adults and children 12 years of age and older should take 20 mL in the dosing cup provided every 4 hours, not exceeding 6 doses in 24 hours.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop using the product and consult a doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, or if symptoms do not improve within 7 days.

Is this product safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before using this product.

How should I store this medication?

Store WAG Maximum Strength Severe Congestion & Cough at room temperature and do not refrigerate.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Walgreens Maximum Strength Severe Congestion and Cough (dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Walgreens Maximum Strength Severe Congestion and Cough.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Walgreens Maximum Strength Severe Congestion and Cough, 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 relief of cough associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur due to the common cold or inhaled irritants. It helps to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, facilitating the clearance of mucus from the bronchial passageways and making coughs more productive.

Additionally, this drug temporarily relieves the intensity of coughing and alleviates nasal congestion associated with colds. It is designed to help reduce the frequency of coughing episodes.

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

Dosage and Administration

The maximum recommended dosage is 6 doses within a 24-hour period. Healthcare professionals should instruct patients to measure the medication exclusively with the dosing cup provided, and to refrain from using this cup with any other products to ensure accurate dosing.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL, administered every 4 hours as needed. It is imperative that patients do not exceed the specified dosage.

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

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, use is contraindicated for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Exceeding the recommended dosage is also contraindicated while using this product.

Warnings and Precautions

It is imperative to adhere to the following warnings and precautions to ensure the safe use of this product.

Warnings The use of this product is contraindicated in individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, this product should not be used for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult with a doctor or pharmacist if there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in their prescription medications.

General Precautions Prior to using this product, patients should seek medical advice if they have any of the following conditions:

  • Heart disease

  • High blood pressure

  • Thyroid disease

  • Diabetes

  • Difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland

  • A persistent or chronic cough, particularly associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema

  • A cough that is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus)

Emergency Medical Help Instructions In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at (1-800-222-1222).

Stop Taking and Call Your Doctor Instructions Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience any of the following:

  • Nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness

  • Symptoms that do not improve within seven days or are accompanied by fever

  • A cough that recurs or is associated with a rash or persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Side Effects

Patients may experience a range of adverse reactions while using this product. Serious adverse reactions warrant immediate medical attention and include symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if these symptoms occur, if symptoms do not improve within 7 days, or if they are accompanied by fever. Additionally, a cough that recurs or is associated with a rash or a persistent headache may indicate a serious underlying condition and should be evaluated by a physician.

It is contraindicated to use this product in conjunction with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Patients should not use this product for at least 2 weeks after discontinuing an MAOI. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, patients are advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

Before using this product, patients should seek medical advice if they have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Furthermore, individuals with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or those experiencing a cough with excessive phlegm (mucus) should also consult a healthcare professional prior to use.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of this medication with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. Patients should not take this medication while on MAOIs or for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of MAOI therapy, as this may result in serious interactions.

No additional drug interactions or laboratory test interactions have been identified for this medication. Therefore, no further dosage adjustments or monitoring recommendations are necessary beyond the contraindication with MAOIs.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Walgreens Maximum Strength Severe Congestion and Cough (dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Walgreens Maximum Strength Severe Congestion and Cough.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not use this medication. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL, administered using the dosing cup provided, every 4 hours.

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 no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in 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 studied in relation to dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, there is no available information regarding the use of this medication in individuals with reduced kidney function. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of data when prescribing to patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to this medication. Consequently, there are no 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. Healthcare professionals are advised to contact a Poison Control Center without delay at (1-800-222-1222) for guidance on managing the situation.

Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with overdose. Symptoms may vary depending on the substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage these symptoms accordingly.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the specific clinical presentation of the patient. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure patient safety and effective resolution of the 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

Postmarketing experience has revealed that several adverse reactions have been reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs. These include nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, rash, and headache. Such reactions may occur in patients using the product.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product 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.

Patients should be cautioned against using this product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the last two weeks. If patients are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI, they should be encouraged to consult with their doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

Healthcare providers should inform patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, patients should be advised to seek medical advice if their symptoms do not improve within seven days or if they are accompanied by fever. They should also be instructed to stop use and contact a doctor if a cough returns or occurs with a rash or persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious condition.

While using this product, patients must be reminded not to exceed the recommended dosage. Healthcare providers should also recommend that patients consult a doctor before use if they have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Furthermore, patients with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should seek medical advice before using this product. Lastly, patients should be advised to consult a doctor if they have a cough that produces 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 room temperature, ensuring that it is not exposed to refrigeration. Proper handling should be observed to maintain the integrity of the product throughout its shelf life.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with a recommended dosage of 20 mL every 4 hours for adults and children aged 12 years and older. It is contraindicated for use in children under 12 years of age. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. Additionally, it is crucial to keep the medication out of reach of children, and in the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at (1-800-222-1222).

No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experiences.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Walgreens Maximum Strength Severe Congestion and Cough, 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 Walgreens Maximum Strength Severe Congestion and Cough, 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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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.