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Guaifenesin Extended-Release Tablets

Guaifenesin extended-release tablets are a medication that treats coughing and chest congestion. It thins and loosens mucus. This makes it easier to clear it from your body. Follow the directions on the label for dosage guidance. There are several brands of guaifenesin, like Mucinex®.

What is this medication?

GUAIFENESIN (gwye FEN e sin) treats cough and chest congestion. It works by thinning and loosening mucus, making it easier to clear from the head, throat, and lungs. It belongs to a group of medications called expectorants.

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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, Ambi, Amibid LA, Bidex, Drituss G, Duratuss G, Fenesin, Gua SR, Guaidrine G, Guaifenex G, Guaifenex LA, Humibid, Humibid LA, Liquibid, Mucinex, Muco-Fen, Mucus ER, Mucus Relief, Q-Bid LA, Respa-GF, Ru-Tuss, Touro EX

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

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

  • Fever
  • Kidney disease
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to guaifenesin, 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 break, chew or crush this medication. You may take with food or on an empty stomach. Take your medication 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 old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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.

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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.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

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?

Do not treat a cough for more than 1 week without consulting your care team. If you also have a high fever, skin rash, continuing headache, or sore throat, see your care team.

For best results, drink 6 to 8 glasses water daily while you are taking this medication.

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
  • 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.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. 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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