Drugs and Supplements

Over the Counter (OTC)

Guaifenesin

Guaifenesin

gwye-FEN-e-sin

Indications for Use

Treats cough that is caused by colds, flu, or other conditions. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that loosens mucus in your lungs.

Brand Name(s)

  • Bidex 400
  • Robitussin
  • Mucinex
  • Refenesen 400
  • Allfen JR
  • Liquibid
  • Xpect
  • HealthSense G-Phen 400
  • Rite Aid Mucus Relief
  • The Medicine Shoppe Chest Congestion Relief
  • Organidin NR
  • Organ-1 NR
  • GG-200 NR
  • Refenesen
  • Quality Choice Medifin
  • There may be other brand names for this medicine.

    When You Should Not Take the Medication

    You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to guaifenesin.

    How to Use this Medicine

    Capsule, Tablet, Long Acting Capsule, Long Acting Tablet, Liquid

    Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.

    If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.

    Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

    Do not break, chew, or crush the tablet or capsule. Swallow it whole with a full glass of water.

    If a Dose is Missed


    This medicine needs to be given on a fixed schedule. If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions.

    How to Store and Dispose of this Medicine


    Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the oral liquid.

    Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

    Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

    Drugs and Foods to Avoid

    Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

    Warnings While Using this Medicine


    If you are pregnant or breast feeding, ask your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine.

    If your cough is caused by asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, or smoking, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.

    This medicine may contain alcohol.

    Possible Side Effects While Using this Medicine


    Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
    Cough that lasts longer than 7 days.
    Cough with fever, skin rash, or ongoing headache.

    If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
    Drowsiness.
    Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain.

    If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.