Guaifenesin ( expectorant) Flashcards
what is the pharmacological class of guaifenesin
expectorant
brand name of guaifenesin
Mucinex
guaifenesin is an expectorant and contains mucolytic properties so clients should take this medication with
take with full glass of water
pharmacological action of guaifenesin
promotes increased cough production by increasing and thinning mucous secretions
these actions allow clients to decrease chest congestion by coughing out secretions
guaifenesin is often combined with
often combined with antitussives either opioid or nonopioid or decongestant
why would guaifenesin be combined with antitussive either opioid; nonopioid; or decongestant
treat manifestations of colds; allergic/nonallergic rhinitis
; cough caused by lower respiratory disorders
if a client develops an allergic reaction (rash) from guaifenesin what should the client do
stop taking the medication; obtain medical care if rash or other manifestations of allergy occur
complications of guaifenesin
GI upset
drowsiness; dizziness;
allergic reaction (rash)
if a client experiences GI upset while taking guaifenesin what should they do
take with food
if a client taking guaifenesin experiences drowsiness; dizziness when shouldn’t the client take the medication
do not take prior to driving or activities that require alertness
safety of guaifenesin is not established for which patients
pregnant; lactating
why should Guaifenesin be taken with caution with clients who have asthma
medication can cause bronchospasm
clients who are ______ should talk with provider before taking medications containing guaifenesin
breastfeeding
depending on the formulations and medication combinations preparations containing guaifenesin might be contraindicated for
children
guaifenesin comes in
tablet ; capsule
should guaifenesin tablets be crushed
no
can guaifenesin capsule be opened
yes can be opened and sprinkled on foods
clients taking guaifenesin should report to provider if cough lasts for longer than
report if coughs last for more than 1 week
take guaifenesin with full glass of water and continue optimal _______ intake throughout therapy
continue optimal fluid intake
read over the counter labels carefully to discover what medications have been combined in the preparation
true or false
true
effectiveness of guaifenesin is evidenced by
cough is more productive; mucous is easier to expectorate; chest congestion is decreased
