Basic Info.

Name:Guaifenesin
Synonyms:3-(2-Methoxyphenoxy)-1,2-propanediol; Guaiacol glyceryl ether; Glycerol guaiacolate
Molecular Formula:C10H14O4
Molecular Weight:198.22
CAS Registry Number:93-14-1
EINECS:202-222-5
Melting point:77-81 ºC
Boiling point:215 ºC (19 mmHg)
Water solubility:5 g/100 mL (25 ºC)

Description:

Guaifenesin or guaiphenesin (former BAN), also glyceryl guaiacolate,is an expectorant drugsold over the counter and usually taken orally to assist the bringing up (expectoration) of phlegm from the airways in acute respiratory tract infectiion.

Guaifenesin is thought to act as an expectorant by increasing the volume and reducing the viscosity of secretions in the trachea and bronchi. It also stimulates the flow of respiratory tract secretions, allowing ciliary movement to carry the loosened secretions upward toward the pharynx.Thus, it may increase the efficiency of the cough reflex and facilitate removal of the secretions; however, objective evidence for this is limited and conflicting.

Guaifenesin or guaiphenesin is an expectorant drug sold over the counter and usually taken orally to assist the bringing up (expectoration) of phlegm from the airways in acute respiratory tract infections.Guaifenesin is used to control cough and is sometimes combined with dextromethorphan, an antitussive.

Guaifenesin is thought to act as an expectorant by increasing the volume and reducing the viscosity of secretions in the trachea and bronchi. It has been said to aid in the flow of respiratory tract secretions, allowing ciliary movement to carry the loosened secretions upward toward the pharynx.Thus, it may increase the efficiency of the cough reflex and facilitate removal of the secretions.

Side-effects of guaifenesin include nausea, vomiting, formation of kidney stones,diarrhea, and constipation.Nausea and vomiting can be reduced by taking guaifenesin with meals.The risk of forming kidney stones during prolonged use can be reduced by maintaining good hydration and increasing the pH of urine. Rarely, severe allergic reactions may occur, including a rash or swelling of the lips or face, which may require urgent medical assistance. Mild dry mouth or chapped lips may also occur when taking this medication. Drinking a glass of water is recommended each time one takes guaifenesin.

Guaifenesin increases the analgesic effect of paracetamol (acetaminophen) and aspirin, increases the sedative effects of alcohol, tranquilisers, sleep-pills and total anesthetics. Guaifenesin increases the effects of medication that decrease muscle tone.

Usage:

Expectorant cough, phlegm cough for chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis and other illnesses
Guaifenesin or guaiphenesin (former BAN), also glyceryl guaiacolate,is an expectorant drugsold
over the counter and usually taken orally to assist the bringing up (expectoration) of phlegm from
the airways in acute respiratory tract infectiion.

Effect and mechanism of action:

Guaifenesin is thought to act as an expectorant by increasing the volume and reducing the viscosity of secretions in the trachea and bronchi. It also stimulates the flow of respiratory tract secretions, allowing ciliary movement to carry the loosened secretions upward toward the pharynx.Thus, it may increase the efficiency of the cough reflex and facilitate removal of the secretions; however, objective evidence for this is limited and conflicting.