Overview

Robitussin, as it is commonly known, is utilized to lessen chest congestion that is often caused by infections, allergies, or a common cold.

There might be instances as well when the medicine is used for other purposes that are not included in the medication guide.

Important information

Just like with any other type of medicine, there are some important things that should be taken into consideration when taking medicine. For one, it is a must not use it if you have allergic reactions to Robitussin (guaifenesin).

Keep in mind that the medicine should only be used exactly as directed on its label or as per the prescription of the doctor. At the same time, it is not advised to take it in more significant amounts or for more extended periods than what is recommended.

To protect the children, the medication should not be given to a child that is below four years old. Be sure to seek the advice of a doctor prior to giving a cold or cough medicine to your child. Death may occur resulting from the misuse of cold and cough medicine in children.

Drinking lots of fluids can help loosen chest congestion and provide lubrication to the throat while you are taking medicine such as methylphenidate. 

The medicine might impair your reactions or thinking. You need to be careful if you are driving, and be sure not to do anything that will require you to be alert.

Side Effects

Along with the needed effects from the medicine, Robitussin may also trigger some unwanted effects. However, not all the side effects listed below may occur. If they occur, medical attention may be necessary.

On the other hand, some of the side effects of the medicine might occur that do not often require medical attention. The side effects might go away during the treatment as the body adjusts to the medication. At the same time, healthcare professionals might be able to inform you about the different ways to reduce or prevent some of the side effects. Be sure to check with your healthcare professional if the following side effects persist or become bothersome of if you happen to have questions about them.

Some of the less rare or common side effects are:

• Diarrhea
• headache
• skin rash
• dizziness
• hives
• nausea or vomiting
• stomach pain

For Healthcare Professionals

Applicable to guaifenesin: oral capsule, oral granule, compounding powder, oral liquid, oral capsule extended release, oral tablet extended release, oral tablet, oral solution.

General

Guaifenesin is the active ingredient present in Robitussin Chest Congestion, generally well-tolerated.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects include vomiting and upset stomach with higher doses than what is recommended. The dosage suggested for expectoration has seldom been associated with gastrointestinal upset.

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects occasionally involved headaches and dizziness.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects included uncommon reports of rash.

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity side effects included a statement of an anaphylactic reaction.

Indication and Dosage

Robitussin: Taken every 6 hrs. as follows: Adults 12 y/o and above: 10 – 20 ml. Children 6 up to under 12 y/o: 5 ml Children 2 – under 6 y/o: 2.5 ml Children under 2 y/o: consult a doctor.

Drug Interaction

There might be other types of drugs that could interact with Robitussin. Do not miss to inform your doctor about other medications that you are taking. This may include over the counter, prescription, vitamin, and herbal products. Never start with a new drug without informing your doctor first.

Warnings and Precautions

Before prescribing the medicine to modify or suppress cough, it is imperative to determine that the underlying causes of the cough are known, that cough modification does not increase the risk of physiological or clinical complications, and that suitable therapy for the main disease is given.

 In case the cough worsens, or if it lasts for over a week and accompanied by very high fever, or in a patient suffering from hypertension, be sure to consult a physician. You should not exceed the recommended dosage—another vital reminder always to keep the medicine away from children.

Overdose and Contraindications

Allergic Reaction to guaifenesin, sympathomimetic amines, or dextromethorphan; marked hypertension; patients who receive MAO inhibitors need not take Robitussin DM, Super-Strength DM, Super-Strength Cough and Cold, Cough and Cold, Pediatric or Pediatric Cough and Cold.

Patients who have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart or thyroid disease, glaucoma, or problem in urination as a result of prostate enlargement need not take Robitussin Cough & Cold, Super-Strength Cough and Cold, or Pediatric Cough and Cold.

Clinical Pharmacology

As an expectorant, guaifenesin can greatly help enhance the production of the respiratory tract fluids. With an improved flow of viscid discharges stimulates ciliary action, as well as enables the elimination of the inspissated mucus. Given all this, dry and unproductive coughs get productive, and not so persistent.

Dextromethorphan- a non-narcotic, synthetic, and centrally acting cough suppressant. Its anti-tussive efficacy was exhibited in both human and clinical studies, as well as the prevalence of toxic consequences has been extremely low. Pseudoephedrine generates vasoconstriction causing a decongestant effect