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Codeine and guaifenesin
  • Treatments
  • Cough

Codeine and guaifenesin

Generic name: codeine and guaifenesin [ KOE-deen-and-gwye-FEN-a-sin ]
Brand names: Allfen CD, Cheracol with Codeine, Cheratussin AC, Codar GF, Duraganidin NR, ... show all 40 brands
Dosage forms: oral capsule (9 mg-200 mg); oral liquid (6.3 mg-100 mg/5 mL; 7.5 mg-225 mg/5 mL; 8 mg-200 mg/5 mL); oral syrup (10 mg-100 mg/5 mL); oral tablet (10 mg-400 mg; 20 mg-400 mg)
Drug class:Upper respiratory combinations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 5, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is codeine and guaifenesin?

Codeine is a narcotic cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex.

Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It helps loosen congestion in your chest and throat, making it easier to cough out through your mouth.

Codeine and guaifenesin is a combination medicine used to treat cough and chest congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

codeine and guaifenesin will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Codeine and guaifenesin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Codeine can slow or stop your breathing, and may be habit-forming. MISUSE OF THIS MEDICINE CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH, especially in a child or other person using the medicine without a prescription.

Do not give this medicine to anyone under 18.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take codeine and guaifenesin if you are allergic to codeine or guaifenesin.

In some people, codeine breaks down rapidly in the liver and reaches higher than normal levels in the body. This can cause dangerously slow breathing and may cause death, especially in a child.

Do not give this medicine to anyone under 18.

To make sure codeine and guaifenesin is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

  • a cough with mucus;

  • asthma,