Skip to content

Guaifenesin

    Brands

    DEA Class; Rx

    Common Brand Names; Mucinex, Bidex 400, Organidin NR

    • Expectorants

    Oral expectorant used for cough to loosen and aid in the clearance of mucus
    Not beneficial for cough suppression
    Available in nonprescription (OTC) and prescription products

    Indicated for the treatment of cough associated with colds and minor upper respiratory tract infections and for loosening phlegm and thin bronchial secretions to aid in clearing bronchial passages and making coughs more productive.

    For the treatment of cervical factor infertility, including cervical mucus thickening induced by clomiphene treatment.

    Hypersensitivity

    • Dizziness
    • Drowsiness
    • Decreased uric acid levels
    • Stomach pain
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Headache
    • Rash

    Often comes in combos; check brand name/other constituents

    Some products may contain phenylalanine

    When using as self-medication in chronic or persistent coughs, notify health-care practitioner if no improvement within 7 days

    Pregnancy category: C

    Lactation: Excretion in milk unknown; use with caution

    Adults

    2400 mg/day PO.

    Geriatric

    2400 mg/day PO.

    Adolescents

    2400 mg/day PO.

    Children

    12 years: 2400 mg/day PO.
    6 to 11 years: 1200 mg/day PO.
    2 to 5 years: 600 mg/day PO.
    Less than 2 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.

    Infants

    Safety and efficacy have not been established.

    Guaifenesin

    tablet

    • 200mg
    • 400mg

    tablet, extended-release

    • 600mg
    • 1200mg

    oral syrup

    • 100mg/5mL

    liquid

    • 100mg/5mL
    • 200mg/5mL

    packet

    • 50mg
    • 100mg