GENERIC NAME: GUAIFENESIN/THEOPHYLLINE/EPHEDRINE TABS/CAPS-ORAL (gweye-FEN-eh-sin/thee-OFF-ih-lin/eff-ED-rin)
BRAND NAME(S): Bronkaid
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Guaifenesin helps to loosen mucus. Theophylline acts in the lungs to improve breathing. Ephedrine relieves nasal stuffiness. This combination medication is used to treat symptoms associated with the common cold, sinusitis and other respiratory illnesses.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as prescribed. Be sure to follow instructions closely. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. This medication is best taken with a full glass of water. Swallow capsules and tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them. If stomach upset occurs, this may be taken after a meal or snack.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach upset, trouble sleeping or nervousness may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain (angina), a rapid pulse, skin rash, difficulty urinating, tremors, breathing trouble. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also, limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, asthma, emphysema, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, allergies. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness if this medication causes you to feel dizzy or drowsy. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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.
- Bronchitis - Learn about bronchitis an inflammation of the lining of the lungs. Bronchitis can be aggravated from colds, cigarette smoking, COPD, and other lung conditions.
- Common Cold - Get the facts on common cold causes (virus), symptoms, treatment, how long a cold lasts, how it's transmitted, how to avoid colds and home remedies for this contagious illness.
- Sinus Infection - Learn about sinus infections and inflammation of the sinuses (also known as sinusitis) with information written by doctors for patients. Includes causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and complications of sinus infection.
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