Guaifenesin

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia


Guaifenesin
Systematic (IUPAC) name
3-(2-methoxyphenoxy)propane-1,2-diol
Identifiers
CAS number	93-14-1
ATC code	R05 CA03
PubChem	3516
DrugBank	APRD01005
Chemical data
Formula	C₁₀H₁₄O₄
Mol. weight	198.216 g/mol
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability	?
Metabolism	?
Half life	1 hour
Excretion	?
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat.	?
Legal status
Routes	Oral

Guaifenesin (gwi fen' ə sin) (INN) or guaiphenesin (former BAN) is an expectorant drug usually taken orally to assist the expectoration ("bringing up") of phlegm from the airways in acute respiratory tract infections.

Guaifenesin is also used in the experimental guaifenesin protocol in the treatment of fibromyalgia.

It was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1952.

Guaifenesin works by drawing water into the bronchi. The water both thins mucus and lubricates the airway, facilitating the removal of mucus by coughing.

It is sold as pills or syrups under several brand names such as GuaiLife, Ethex 208, Humibid, Mucinex, and Robitussin, and it also is included in many over-the-counter cough and cold remedies.

Guaifenesin is frequently combined with dextromethorphan, an antitussive. Under normal circumstances this combination leads to fewer, but more productive coughs. However, in the quantities consumed by recreational users of dextromethorphan, it may cause nausea and vomiting.