Codeine-Guaifenesin Uses

Codeine-guaifenesin is used to relieve cough with mucus and chest congestion caused by respiratory infections such as the common cold, acute bronchitis, or inhaled irritants.

There may be other uses of codeine-guaifenesin. Your doctor or pharmacist can give you further drug information.

Codeine-Guaifenesin Mechanism of Action

Codeine is a narcotic pain medicine and antitussive (cough suppressant). It reduces signals in the brain that trigger a cough reflex. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It thins mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up mucus and keep the airways clear.

Codeine-Guaifenesin Doses

The combination of codeine-guaifenesin is available as an:

• Oral solution that contains 10 mg of codeine and 100 mg of guaifenesin per 5 mL, 6.3 mg codeine and 100 mg guaifenesin per 5 mL, and 8 mg codeine and 200 mg guaifenesin per 5 mL
• Oral liquid 2.5-75 mg/5 mL and 7.5-225 mg/5 mL (brand names Brontex, Mar-Cof CG)
• Oral tablet 10-300 mg and 20-400 mg (brand names Brontex, Allfen CDX)
• Oral capsule 9-200 mg (brand name M-Clear)

The usual dose of the 10-100 mg oral solution of codeine-guaifenesin in adults and children 12 years of age and older is 10 mL (2 teaspoons) by mouth every 4 hours as needed. Do not take more than 20 mg of codeine every 4-6 hours. Also, do not take more than 6 doses in 24 hours (maximum 120 mg of codeine per day and 2,400 mg of guaifenesin per day).