Guaifenesin is a medication used to manage a congested chest when you suffer from allergies, a cold or a lung infection, according to Drugs.com. It belongs to a class of medications called expectorants and works to induce coughing so that you can clear your chest of phlegm. This medication is available over the counter and by prescription. Guaifenesin is available as a tablet, liquid syrup or capsule. Take it as instructed to prevent any hazardous side effects.
Common Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, guaifenesin can cause nausea, vomiting and stomach problems. These gastrointestinal effects can deprive your body of important nutrients and minerals. Guaifenesin can also cause an itchy red rash all over your body. Other common side effects include dizziness and headache. Do not drive or control any heavy machinery if you are dizzy. Your body will typically need time to acclimate to guaifenesin's ingredients. These routine side effects should not cause concern unless they linger. Notify your medical doctor right away to reverse these effects.
Other Side Effects
Guaifenesin can also cause diarrhea and hives, according to the Mayo Clinic. Guaifenesin has the potential to cause other side effects not listed under typical side effects. These side effects are individual-based and are usually rare. For example, an immunocompromised individual may develop side effects that a healthy person would not. Talk to your doctor if you experience other symptoms not listed here.
Additional Concerns
Many over-the-counter medicines contain guaifenesin. Do not combine cold medications, as this can result in an overdose. According to Drugs.com, overdosing on this medication is rare, but when it occurs, you may stop breathing. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist to investigate whether your current medications contain guaifenesin.
Avoid guaifenesen if you are allergic to its ingredients. Harmful side effects such as difficulty breathing, hives and angioedema (swelling of your face, tongue and throat) can occur.
The Mayo Clinic recommends you call your doctor if your cough still remains after seven days. Also, it is imperative to contact her if you develop a fever, cough, rash or sore throat. You may be suffering from an infection.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, pregnant or hope to become pregnant. Drugs.com says that it is unknown whether guaifenesin can harm your baby, but you and your doctor must evaluate the risks and benefits of taking guaifenesin.
Avoid guaifenesin capsules if you suffer from phenylketonuria (a condition in which you are unable to break down the amino acid phenylalanine), warns MedlinePlus. The guaifenesin granules may contain aspartame, which contains phenylalanine, and may potentiate such symptoms as tremors, skin rashes and seizures.
