Guaifenesin
Expectorants
Sold as Tussin · Mucinex · Bio-Z-Cough · tussin dm · Tussi Pres
- Drug class
- Expectorants
- Availability
- Over-the-counter
- Routes
- Oral
- Markets covered
- 3
- Products on record
- 190
- FDA reports (12 mo)
- 15,211
Overview
Plain-language summary, compiled from the cited regulatory records
Guaifenesin is an expectorant [1]. It is approved to temporarily relieve cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation that may occur with a cold [1]. It also helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to aid in draining the bronchial tubes [1].
This medication is available under various brand names, including Mucinex and Mucus Relief [1]. In the last 12 months, there have been 15,211 adverse event reports associated with guaifenesin [2]. The most frequently reported adverse events include exposure during pregnancy, drug ineffectiveness, fatigue, headache, and off-label use [2].
This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Regulator | Products | Last revision |
|---|---|---|---|
| US United States | FDA | 111 | May 26, 2026 |
| CA Canada | Health Canada | 59 | April 23, 2026 |
| GB United Kingdom | MHRA | 20 | May 22, 2026 |
USUnited States· FDA
111 products
Uses
Uses • helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to rid the bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus and make coughs more productive • temporarily relieves nasal congestion due to: • common cold • hay fever • upper respiratory allergies • temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose • promotes nasal and/or sinus drainage • temporarily relieves sinus congestion and pressure
How to take
CACanada· Health Canada
59 products
Uses
AND CLINICAL USE .............................................................................. 3 CONTRAINDICATIONS ................................................................................................... 4 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS .................................................................................
5 ADVERSE REACTIONS ................................................................................................. 12 DRUG INTERACTIONS ..................................................................................................
13 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION .............................................................................. 15 OVERDOSAGE ................................................................................................................
17 ACTION AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY ............................................................ 19 STORAGE AND STABILITY ......................................................................................... 22 SPECIAL HANDLING INSTRUCTIONS .......................................................................
GBUnited Kingdom· MHRA
20 products
Uses
Expectorant for the symptomatic relief of acute productive (chesty) cough. The oral solution is for the lubrication and relief of the sore throat and hoarseness, which may be associated with the cough.
How to take
Sources & citations
- [1]FDA DailyMed · 12971fb2-2314-44… · revised May 26, 2026 [PDF]
- [2]Health Canada (DPD) · 02053403 · revised March 22, 2025
- [3]MHRA (UK) · PL446730174 · revised May 22, 2026
- [4]OpenFDA adverse-event reports (US), 12 months ending June 4, 2026.
Information on this page is compiled from public regulatory records. Drugvu is not affiliated with any regulator or pharmaceutical manufacturer. This is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.