What is guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It is used to break up congestion and mucous to make breathing
easier. Guaifenesin thins mucous, increases lubrication of the respiratory tract (lungs, nose and throat),
and increases the removal of mucous.
Phenylpropanolamine is a decongestant. It constricts (shrinks) blood vessels (veins and
arteries), which reduces swelling of mucous membranes in areas such as the nose and sinuses.
Guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine is used to treat the symptoms of the common cold and of
infections of the sinuses, lungs, and throat.
Phenylpropanolamine, an ingredient in this product, has been associated with an increased risk
of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain) in women. Men may
also be at risk. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke is low, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) recommends that consumers not use any products that contain phenylpropanolamine.
Guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in
this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
Do not take guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase
inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in
the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
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high blood pressure or any other type of heart disease,
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diabetes,
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a peripheral vascular disorder (poor circulation),
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glaucoma or increased pressure in the eyes,
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an overactive thyroid, or
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difficulty urinating or an enlarged prostate.
You may not be able to take guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine, or you
may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the
conditions listed above.
Guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that
it is not known whether guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take
this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
This medication passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not take this
medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from
guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine. You may require a lower dose of this medication.
Guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine has not been approved for use by children younger
than 6 years of age.
How should I take guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
Take guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not
understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water. Increasing fluid intake during the day may help
relieve congestion.
Take guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine with food if it causes stomach upset.
Do not crush or chew the tablets. Swallow them whole or break them in half where they are
scored to make them easier to swallow if needed.
Store guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine at room temperature away from moisture and
heat.
What happens if I miss a dose of guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose,
skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose.
Do not
take a
double dose of this medication.
Where can I get more information about guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
Your pharmacist has information about guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
No serious side effects from guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine are expected. Seek
emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your
throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take guaifenesin and
phenylpropanolamine and talk to your doctor if you experience
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dizziness or headache;
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nervousness, restlessness, or insomnia;
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nausea or stomach upset; or
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difficulty urinating.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor
about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What is the most important information I should know about guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
Phenylpropanolamine, an ingredient in this product, has been associated with an increased risk
of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding into the brain or into tissue surrounding the brain) in women. Men may
also be at risk. Although the risk of hemorrhagic stroke is low, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) recommends that consumers not use any products that contain phenylpropanolamine.
Drink plenty of extra fluids while taking this medication.
Do not crush or chew the tablets. Swallow them whole or break them in half where they are
scored to make them easier to swallow if needed.
What should I avoid while taking guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities.
Guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine may cause dizziness. If you experience dizziness, avoid these
activities.
What other drugs will affect guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
Do not take guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase
inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in
the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.
Heart medications such as methyldopa (Aldomet), reserpine (Serpalan, Serpasil), and
guanethidine (Ismelin) may have decreased effects. Talk to your doctor before taking guaifenesin and
phenylpropanolamine if you are taking any of these medications.
Do not take other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, diet, or sleep aids while taking
guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Other
medications may also contain guaifenesin, phenylpropanolamine, or other similar drugs. You may
accidentally take too much of these medicines.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine.
Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
What happens if I have an overdose of guaifenesin and phenylpropanolamine?
