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Guaifenesin; Carbetapentane Tablets

What is this medication?

GUAIFENESIN; CARBETAPENTANE (gwye FEN e sin; kar bay ta PEN tane) is used to relieve cough. It works by loosening mucus and reducing cough. It is a combination of an expectorant and a cough suppressant.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): AllFen C, AllFen CX, Ambi, Certuss, Duratuss CS, Dynex VR, Tusso-ZMR, Xpect-AT

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Chronic cough
  • Taking MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to carbetapentane, guaifenesin, or other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply. Do not give this medication to children 6 years of age or younger.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

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What may interact with this medication?

Do not take this medication with any of the following:

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your symptoms do not improve within 5 days or if they get worse. If you have a high fever, skin rash, lasting headache, or sore throat, see your care team.

Drink several glasses of water each day.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medication. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Tell your care team that you are taking this medication before you have any tests of your urine done.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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