What brand names are available for guaifenesin?

Diabetic Tussin, Geri-Tussin, Robitussin, Fenesin IR, Mucinex, Mucosa, Mucus Relief, Mucus ER

Is guaifenesin available as a generic drug?

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Do I need a prescription for guaifenesin?

No

What are the uses for guaifenesin?

Guaifenesin is used for the treatment of cough associated with colds and minor upper respiratory tract infections in individuals 12 years and older.

What are the side effects of guaifenesin?

Side effects of guaifenesin are uncommon, but can include:

What is the dosage for guaifenesin?

Guaifenesin may be taken with or without food. The tablets should be taken whole and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken. The recommended dose is 600-1200 every 12h hours up to a maximum of 2.4 g per day. Patients should consult a health care professional if symptoms last more than 7 days.

Which drugs or supplements interact with guaifenesin?

There are no known drug interactions with guaifenesin.

Is guaifenesin safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Although one analysis found a correlation between guaifenesin use in the first trimester of pregnancy 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.

It is not known if guaifenesin is secreted into breast milk.

What else should I know about guaifenesin?

What preparations of guaifenesin are available?

Tablet (extended release): 600, and 1200 mg

How should I keep guaifenesin stored?

Tablets, capsules, and syrup should be stored below 30 C (86 F). The liquid should not be refrigerated.

How to Prevent the Common Cold

Medically Reviewed on 3/6/2019

References

Medically reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP; Board Certified Emergency Medicine

REFERENCE:

FDA Prescribing Information