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Guaiatussin AC

Generic name: codeine and guaifenesin [KOE-deen-and-gwye-FEN-a-sin]
Brand Names: Cheracol with Codeine, Mar-cof CG, Allfen CD, Cheratussin AC and CodarGF,… show all 11 brandsCombinations for the upper respiratory tract

What is Guaiatussin AC?

Codeine has a narcotic effect. Cough suppressant. It alters brain signals that cause cough reflexes.Guaifenesin acts as an expectorant. It loosens congestion in the chest and throat, making it easier for you to cough through your mouth.Guaiatussin AC, a combination of medicines, is used to treat allergies, colds, and flu.Guaiatussin AC does not treat coughs caused by smoking or asthma.Guaiatussin Ac can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Guaiatussin AC

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.Codeine, like other narcotics, can cause breathing problems. If breathing becomes weak, death may result.If you have blue lips or slow breathing with long pauses in between, someone caring for you needs to seek immediate medical attention.

This medicine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Sighing and noisy breathing are both examples of shallow breathing.
  • Low heart rate or weak pulse are signs that something might be amiss with the circulatory system.
  • Severe dizziness or drowsiness;
  • Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual thoughts and behaviours;
  • Little or no urinating is acceptable.
  • Constipation is severe.
  • Slow heart rate and shallow or weak breathing.

The risk of serious side effects is higher in older adults, especially those who are obese or malnourished.

Guaiatussin AC side effects may include:

  • Constipation is a common symptom.
  • Mild drowsiness.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contact the FDA by dialing 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report potential adverse reactions.

Similar/related drugs

Benadryl, benzonatate, diphenhydramine, guaifenesin, dextromethorphan, and mucinex

Warnings

Codeine may cause breathing problems and can become habit-forming. Guaiatussin AC can cause addiction, overdose, or death, especially if it is used by a child or someone who does not have a prescription.Do not give to anyone younger than 18 years old.

Before you take this drug

This medicine should not be taken if you have an allergy to codeine or guaifenesin.

Some people have a rapid breakdown of codeine in their liver, resulting in higher levels than normal in the blood. This can lead to dangerously slow breathing and even death in children.Do not give to anyone younger than 18 years old.

Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Guaiatussin AC will be safe for you:

  • A cough that produces mucus
  • Asthma, COPD, or other breathing disorders;
  • Blockage of the digestive tract (stomach, intestines);
  • A head injury or brain tumour;
  • Low blood pressure
  • Addiction to alcohol or drugs

Your baby may develop withdrawal symptoms after birth if you use codeine during pregnancy. A baby's addiction to habit-forming drugs may require medical care for several weeks. Inform your physician immediately if you are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or looking to become pregnant.Do not breastfeed. Codine can pass through breast milk, causing drowsiness or breathing problems in nursing babies. Do not breastfeed.

How to take Guaiatussin AC?

Please read all the instructions on the prescription label. Codeine can cause breathing problems. Guaiatussin AC should never be used in higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed. Cold or cough medicine is typically taken for only a few days until symptoms disappear.Even at low doses, codeine can become habit-forming. Guaiatussin should never be shared with anyone, especially if they have a history of addiction or drug abuse. Misuse of narcotic medication can cause addiction, overdose, or death, especially if the person is a child. It's illegal to sell or give away codeine.Use the provided dosing syringe or a dose-measuring cup or spoon to measure liquid medicines. Ask your pharmacist if you don't have a device for measuring doses.If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days, or if you have a temperature, a headache, or a skin rash,Store away from moisture or heat at room temperature. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat sources. Track the amount of medication used in each new bottle. Codeine is an addictive drug. You should be alert to anyone who uses your medicine without a prescription or improperly.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Guaiatussin is taken as needed, and there may not be a schedule. If you have a regular schedule, take the missed dose as quickly as you can. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. An overdose of codeine can be deadly, especially if it is taken by a child or someone who has not been prescribed the medication.

What should be avoided?

Guaiatussin AC can impair your ability to think or react. Do not drive or operate machinery until you are sure how the medicine will affect your body. Dizziness and severe drowsiness may cause accidents or falls.Don't drink alcohol. Side effects and death can occur.Before using any other cold or cough medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Guaifensin is found in many combination medicines. You can get too much guaifensin by taking certain products in combination.

Interaction with other drug

Guaiatussin AC can have dangerous side effects if taken with other drugs that make you sleepy, slow down your breathing, or cause anxiety. Consult your doctor before using a sleeping pill, narcotic pain medication, prescription cough medicine, or muscle relaxer.Codeine and guaifenesin may interact with other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop using.