Guaifenesin/ephedrine

Guaifenesin/ephedrine liquid is used for the temporary relief of wheezing and chest tightness caused by mild asthma. It is rarely used today because there are safer and more effective medications (such as albuterol and ipratropium inhalers) to treat asthma symptoms. It is also used to treat coughs due to respiratory infections (such as the common cold), especially when the cough has a lot of mucus. This product is generally not used for an ongoing cough from smoking or long-term breathing problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema) unless directed by your doctor.

Ephedrine is a stimulant (sympathomimetic). It works by relaxing airways to make breathing easier. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier.

Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Therefore, do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.

These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

How to use Ephedrine-Guaifenesin Oral

Take this medication by mouth, usually every 4 hours or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, take with food or milk. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Fluids will help to break up mucus and clear congestion.

Dosage is based on your age, medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than recommended.

Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Seek immediate medical attention if your wheezing does not improve or worsens within 1 hour. You may be having a serious (possibly fatal) asthma attack.

Caffeine can increase the side effects of this medication. Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas) eating large amounts of chocolate, or taking nonprescription products that contain caffeine.

When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Do not increase your dose. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well. You may need a different medication.

Along with its benefits, this medication may rarely cause abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction). This risk may be increased if you have abused alcohol or drugs in the past. Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lessen the risk of addiction.

Tell your doctor if you develop a fever, severe sore throat, rash, persistent headache, your symptoms worsen/return, or if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days. These may be signs of a serious medical problem.