What is this medicine?
DEXTROMETHORPHAN; GUAIFENESIN (dex troe meth OR fan; gwye FEN e sin) is a combination of a cough suppressant and expectorant. It is used for the temporary relief of coughs. This medicine is also used to loosen mucus.
Open All
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
Open
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-chronic bronchitis
-kidney disease
-liver disease
-lung or breathing disease, like asthma or emphysema
-unable to sit up
-an unusual or allergic reaction to dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, other medicines, foods, dyes, bromides, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Open
Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your dose. Household spoons are not accurate. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
Open
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 medicine?
Open
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
-MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
-procarbazine
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
-other medicines for colds or allergy
-medicines for depression or other mental disturbances
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Open
Do not treat yourself for a cough for more than 1 week without consulting your doctor or health care professional. If you have a high fever, skin rash, lasting headache, or sore throat, see your doctor.
Drink 6 to 8 glasses of water daily while you are taking this medicine to help loosen mucus.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine 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 medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Open
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-breathing problems
-confusion
-excitement, nervousness, restlessness, or irritability
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-headache
-stomach upset
Where should I keep my medicine?
Open
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep bottle tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
