guaifenesin/dextromethorphan - oral, Recofen
GENERIC NAME: GUAIFENESIN/DEXTROMETHORPHAN - ORAL (gweye-FEN-eh-sin/dex-trow-meth-OR-fan)
BRAND NAME(S): Recofen
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This combination medication is used to relieve coughs caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses. Guaifenesin belongs to a class of drugs known as expectorants. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier. Dextromethorphan belongs to a class of drugs known as cough suppressants. It acts on a part of the brain (cough center) to reduce the urge to cough.Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Therefore, do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually every 4 hours or as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than 6 doses in a 24-hour period.Measure the liquid medication with a medication-measuring spoon or device. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. The rapidly-dissolving granules should be sprinkled on the tongue and then swallowed. Do not chew on the granules. If you are taking the capsule form, swallow the capsule whole.Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Fluids will help to break up mucus and clear congestion.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.Improper use of this medication (abuse) may result in serious harm (e.g., brain damage, seizure, death). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer time than directed.If your condition persists or worsens after 7 days, or if you think you may have a serious medical condition, seek immediate medical attention.
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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