Dextromethorphan + Guaifenesin
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for guaifenesin and dextromethorphan
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis, Cough ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Sigma-1 Agonist and Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
dextromethorphan + guaifenesin
Summary
Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin are used for relieving cough and chest congestion associated with common cold, flu and other respiratory conditions. They do not treat the underlying cause of these conditions but provide symptomatic relief to improve comfort and breathing.
Guaifenesin works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear the airways. Dextromethorphan acts on the brain to suppress the cough reflex, reducing the urge to cough. Together, they help manage symptoms of cough and congestion by making coughs more productive and less frequent.
For adults, the usual dose of Guaifenesin is 200-400 mg every 4 hours, not exceeding 2400 mg per day. Dextromethorphan is typically taken at 10-20 mg every 4 hours or 30 mg every 6-8 hours with a maximum of 120 mg per day. When combined, the dosage should follow the specific product instructions, often taken every 12 hours.
Common side effects of Guaifenesin include headache, nausea, and vomiting. Dextromethorphan may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. Both medications can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Serious adverse effects are rare but can include allergic reactions such as rash.
Dextromethorphan can interact with drugs that affect serotonin levels such as MAOIs and SSRIs, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome. Both medicines should not be used in children under 4 years of age. They should be used with caution in individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or emphysema.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin work?
Dextromethorphan works by acting on the brain to suppress the cough reflex, providing relief from persistent coughing. Guaifenesin acts as an expectorant, thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear the chest. Together, they provide a dual action: Dextromethorphan reduces the urge to cough, while Guaifenesin makes coughs more productive by facilitating the removal of mucus. This combination helps alleviate symptoms of cough and chest congestion.
How does combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan work?
Guaifenesin works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear the airways. Dextromethorphan acts on the brain to suppress the cough reflex, reducing the urge to cough. Together, they help manage symptoms of cough and congestion by making coughs more productive and less frequent, providing relief from discomfort associated with respiratory infections.
How effective is combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin?
Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin are widely used and have been proven effective in clinical settings for relieving cough and chest congestion. Dextromethorphan's efficacy is supported by its ability to suppress the cough reflex, reducing the frequency of coughing. Guaifenesin is effective in thinning mucus, making it easier to expel, which is supported by its classification as an expectorant. Together, they provide comprehensive relief from symptoms, improving patient comfort and respiratory function. Their effectiveness is well-documented in medical literature and supported by their widespread use in over-the-counter cough and cold remedies.
How effective is combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan?
The effectiveness of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan is supported by their widespread use and clinical studies showing their ability to relieve cough and congestion. Guaifenesin has been shown to thin mucus, making it easier to expel, while Dextromethorphan effectively suppresses the cough reflex. Together, they provide comprehensive relief from symptoms of respiratory infections, improving patient comfort and quality of life.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin?
For adults, the usual dose of Dextromethorphan is 10-20 mg every 4 hours, not exceeding 120 mg in 24 hours. Guaifenesin is typically taken at 200-400 mg every 4 hours, with a maximum of 2,400 mg per day. Both medications can be taken with or without food. It's important to follow the dosing instructions on the package or as prescribed by a doctor to avoid overdose. Both medications are often combined in a single product to provide relief from cough and chest congestion, but care should be taken to not exceed the recommended doses.
What is the usual dose of combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan?
For adults, the usual dose of Guaifenesin is 200-400 mg every 4 hours, not exceeding 2400 mg per day. Dextromethorphan is typically taken at 10-20 mg every 4 hours or 30 mg every 6-8 hours, with a maximum of 120 mg per day. When combined, the dosage should follow the specific product instructions, often taken every 12 hours. Both medicines should be used as needed and not exceed the recommended daily limits to avoid side effects.
How does one take combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin?
Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin can be taken with or without food. It is important to follow the dosing instructions on the package or as prescribed by a healthcare provider. When taking the liquid form, use the measuring device provided to ensure accurate dosing. Drink plenty of fluids while taking Guaifenesin to help loosen mucus. There are no specific food restrictions, but it's important to avoid alcohol and other medications that may cause drowsiness when taking Dextromethorphan.
How does one take combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan?
Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan can be taken with or without food, but it is important to drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus. Extended-release tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water and not crushed or chewed. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is advised to avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of side effects. Always follow the dosage instructions on the package or as prescribed by a doctor.
For how long is combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin taken?
Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin are typically used for short-term relief of cough and chest congestion. They should not be used for more than 7 days unless directed by a doctor. If symptoms persist beyond this period, or if they are accompanied by a fever, rash, or persistent headache, medical advice should be sought. Both medications are intended to alleviate symptoms rather than treat the underlying cause of the illness.
For how long is combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan taken?
Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan are typically used for short-term relief of cough and congestion, usually not exceeding 7 days. If symptoms persist beyond this period, or if they are accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache, it is advised to consult a doctor. Both medications are intended for temporary relief and should not be used as a long-term solution without medical advice.
How long does it take for combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin to work?
Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin typically start working within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. Dextromethorphan acts by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain, providing relief from persistent coughing. Guaifenesin, on the other hand, works by thinning mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear the chest. Both medications are used to alleviate symptoms rather than cure the underlying cause of the cough or congestion. The combination of these two medications provides a dual action: reducing the urge to cough while also making coughs more productive by loosening mucus.
How long does it take for combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan to work?
Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan typically start working within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. Guaifenesin works by thinning mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up, while Dextromethorphan suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain. Both medicines are used to relieve symptoms of cough and congestion, but they do not treat the underlying cause of these symptoms. The combination of these two medicines helps in making coughs more productive and reducing the frequency of coughing.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin?
Common side effects of Dextromethorphan include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. Guaifenesin may cause headache, nausea, and vomiting. Both medications can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Significant adverse effects are rare but can include allergic reactions such as rash or difficulty breathing. It's important to monitor for any unusual symptoms and consult a doctor if they occur. Both medications should be used as directed to minimize the risk of side effects.
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan?
Common side effects of Guaifenesin include headache, nausea, and vomiting. Dextromethorphan may cause dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. Both medications can cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Serious adverse effects are rare but can include allergic reactions such as rash. It is important to follow dosage instructions to minimize the risk of side effects and consult a doctor if unusual symptoms occur.
Can I take combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin with other prescription drugs?
Dextromethorphan should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within two weeks of stopping them, as this can lead to serious interactions. Guaifenesin has no significant known interactions with prescription drugs. However, both medications should be used cautiously with other central nervous system depressants, such as sedatives or alcohol, to avoid increased drowsiness or dizziness. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining these medications with other prescriptions.
Can I take combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan with other prescription drugs?
Dextromethorphan can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), potentially leading to serotonin syndrome, a serious condition. Guaifenesin has fewer known drug interactions but should still be used with caution when combined with other medications. It is important to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking to avoid adverse interactions.
Can I take combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin if I am pregnant?
The safety of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin during pregnancy is not well-established, and they should be used only if clearly needed. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using these medications to weigh the potential benefits against any risks. Both medications are generally considered low risk, but caution is advised, especially during the first trimester. It is important to follow medical advice and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Can I take combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan if I am pregnant?
The safety of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan during pregnancy is not well-established. Guaifenesin is generally considered low-risk, but Dextromethorphan should be used with caution, especially in the first trimester. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using these medications to ensure they are appropriate for their specific situation.
Can I take combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin while breastfeeding?
There is limited data on the safety of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin during lactation. While they are generally considered safe, it is recommended that breastfeeding mothers consult with a healthcare provider before use. This ensures that any potential risks to the infant are minimized. Both medications should be used only if clearly needed and if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Can I take combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan while breastfeeding?
There is limited information on the safety of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan during breastfeeding. While Guaifenesin is generally considered safe, Dextromethorphan's effects on breastfed infants are not well-studied. It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using these medications while breastfeeding to weigh potential risks and benefits.
Who should avoid taking combination of Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin?
Dextromethorphan should not be used with MAOIs or in individuals with a history of serotonin syndrome. Guaifenesin should be used with caution in individuals with chronic coughs associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Both medications should not be used in children under 4 years of age. If symptoms persist for more than 7 days or are accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache, medical advice should be sought. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Who should avoid taking combination of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan?
Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan should not be used in children under 4 years of age. Dextromethorphan is contraindicated in patients taking MAOIs or SSRIs due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Both medications should be used with caution in individuals with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma or emphysema. It is important to follow dosage instructions and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen.
