Guaifenesin (Glyceryl Guaiacolate)

A to Z Drug Facts

 Action May enhance output of respiratory tract fluid by reducing adhesiveness and surface tension, thus facilitating removal of viscous mucus and making nonproductive coughs more productive and less frequent. Efficacy not well documented.

 Indications Temporary relief of cough associated with respiratory tract infections and related conditions such as sinusitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis, and asthma when these conditions are complicated by tenacious mucus or mucus plugs and congestion; effective for productive as well as nonproductive cough, particularly dry, nonproductive cough that tends to injure mucous membranes of the air passages.

 Contraindications Standard considerations.

 Route/Dosage

Immediate-release Adults and Children (at least 12 yr): PO 200 to 400 mg q 4 hr (max, 2.4 g/day).

Children (6 to 12 yr): PO 100 to 200 mg q4 hr (max, 1.2 g/day).

Children (2 to 6 yr): PO 50 to 100 mg q 4 hr (max, 600 mg/day).

Children (6 mo to under 2 yr): PO Individualize dose, 25 to 50 mg q 4 hr (max, 300 mg/day).

Sustained- or Extended-release Adults and children (at least 12 yr): PO 575 mg to 1.2 g q 12 hr (max, 2.4 g/day).

Children (6 to 12 yr): PO 575 to 600 mg q 12 hr (max, 1.2 g/day).

Children (2 to 6 yr): PO 275.5 to 300 mg q 12 hr (max, 600 mg/day).

 Interactions

None well documented.

 Lab Test Interferences May cause color interference with certain laboratory determinations of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid and vanillylmandelic acid. Discontinue use 48 hr before test.

 Adverse Reactions

CNS: Dizziness; headache. DERMATOLOGIC: Rash; urticaria. GI: Nausea; vomiting.

 Precautions

Pregnancy: Category C. Lactation: Undetermined. Persistent cough: May indicate serious condition. Notify physician, pharmacist, or nurse if cough persists for more than 1 wk, tends to recur or is accompanied by high fever, rash, or persistent headache.

 Administration/Storage

• Follow administration with glass of water.
• Store at room temperature.

 Assessment/Interventions

• Obtain patient history, including drug history and any known allergies.
• Assess lung sounds, cough, sputum production, and color.
• Maintain fluid intake to 2000 mL/day if no contraindications exist.
• Notify health care provider if these signs occur: high fever, rash, or headaches; persistent cough.

 Patient/Family Education

• Explain importance of maintaining increased fluid intake.
• Explain that expectorants are not recommended for some chronic cough conditions, such as cough associated with smoking, emphysema, and asthma.
• Instruct patient to report these symptoms to health care provider: Cough persisting for more than 1 wk or if recurring or accompanied by high fever, rash, or headache.

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Copyright © 2003 Facts and Comparisons
David S. Tatro
A to Z Drug Facts