Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: guaifenesin
BRAND NAME: Humibid, Humibid LA, Robitussin, Organidin NR, Fenesin
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Guaifenesin is an
expectorant, that
is, a medication that promotes elimination of mucus from the
lungs. The
expectorant effects of guaifenesin promote elimination of
mucous by
thinning the mucous and lubricating the irritated respiratory
tract.
Guaifenesin is an ingredient in many over-the-counter cough and
cold
products. Guaifenesin was first approved by the FDA in 1952.
PRESCRIPTION: no
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Prescription forms include syrup (100 mg per teaspoonful); 200 mg tablets
(200 Organidin NR); sustained release 300 mg capsules (Humibid);
600 mg sustained
release tablets (Fenesin; Humibid LA). The only non-prescription form is a 600 mg extended release tablet (Mucinex).
STORAGE: Tablets, capsules, and syrup should be stored
below 30°C
(86°F). Do not refrigerate the liquid.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Guaifenesin is used for the treatment
of cough
associated with colds and minor upper respiratory tract
infections.
DOSING: Guaifenesin may be taken with or without food.
The
sustained release tablets and capsules should be taken whole.
They should
not be broken or opened.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: There are no known drug
interactions with
guaifenesin.
PREGNANCY: Although one analysis found a correlation
between
guaifenesin use in the first trimester and an increased risk of
hernia in
the fetus, others found no increased risk of fetal
malformations. Thus,
guaifenesin should be used in pregnancy only if the physician
feels that
the potential benefits outweigh the potential and unknown
risks.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not
known if guaifenesin is secreted into breast milk.
SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects of guaifenesin are uncommon.
In doses
higher than those typically used, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
abdominal
pain, or drowsiness may occur.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 3/2/2003
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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