Generic name: Guaifenesin(gwye-fen´e-sin)
Brand name:Amonidrin, Anti-Tuss, Breonesin, Gee-Gee, GG-Cen, Glyceryl
Guaiacolate, Glycotuss, Glytuss, Guaituss, Hytuss, Malotuss,
Mytussin, Mucinex,Nortussin,Resyl,Robitussin
Classifications: antitussive; expectorant
Pregnancy Category:C
Availability
100 mg/5 mL syrup; 100 mg/5 mL, 200 mg/5 mL liquid; 200 mg cap
Actions:
Enhances reflex outflow of respiratory tract fluids by irritation of gastric mucosa.
Therapeutic effects:
Aids in expectoration by reducing adhesiveness and surface tension of secretions.
Uses:
To combat dry, nonproductive cough associated with colds and bronchitis. A common ingredient in cough mixtures.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to guaifenesin; pregnancy (category C), lactation.
Route & Dosage
Cough
adult: PO 200–400 mg q4h up to 2.4 g/d
child: PO <2 y: 12 mg/kg/d in 6 divided doses; 2–5 y: 50–100 mg q4h up to 600 mg/d; 6–11 y, 100–200 mg q4h up to 1.2 g/d
Administration
Oral
- Ensure that sustained release form of drug is not chewed or crushed. It must be swallowed whole.
- Follow dose with a full glass of water if not contraindicated.
- Carefully observe maximum daily doses for adults and children
Adverse effects
GI: Low incidence of nausea.
CNS: Drowsiness.
Nursing implications
Assessment & Drug Effects
- Monitor for therapeutic effectiveness. Persistent cough may indicate a serious condition requiring further diagnostic work.
- Notify physician if high fever, rash, or headaches develop.
Patient & Family Education
- Increase fluid intake to help loosen mucus; drink at least 8 glasses of fluid daily
- Contact physician if cough persists beyond 1 wk.
- Contact physician if high fever, rash, or headache develops
- Do not breast feed while taking this drug.
