Ed Bron Gp Liquid
It is used to treat nose stuffiness.It is used to thin mucus so it can be taken from the body by coughing.
Drug Class
Expectorant, Nasal Decongestant
Pharmacologic Class
Expectorant, Alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Pregnancy Category
Category C
FDA Approved
Jan 1970
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
This medicine helps to loosen phlegm (mucus) in your chest, making it easier to cough up, and also helps to relieve stuffy nose and sinus pressure by reducing swelling in your nasal passages.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication as directed, with or without food. If you experience an upset stomach, taking it with food may help. Drink plenty of non-caffeinated liquids, unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake.
To ensure accurate dosing, measure liquid medications carefully using the device provided with the medication. If no device is included, ask your pharmacist for a suitable measuring tool.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms and areas where children and pets may access it. Keep all medications in a safe location and dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your doctor or pharmacist. If you have questions about disposing of your medication, consult your pharmacist, who may be aware of local drug take-back programs.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your medication as directed, with or without food. If you experience an upset stomach, taking it with food may help. Drink plenty of non-caffeinated liquids, unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake.
To ensure accurate dosing, measure liquid medications carefully using the device provided with the medication. If no device is included, ask your pharmacist for a suitable measuring tool.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding bathrooms and areas where children and pets may access it. Keep all medications in a safe location and dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your doctor or pharmacist. If you have questions about disposing of your medication, consult your pharmacist, who may be aware of local drug take-back programs.
Missing a Dose
If you take this medication regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses. If you take this medication as needed, do not take it more frequently than directed by your doctor.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Drink plenty of fluids (water, juice) to help thin mucus and make it easier to cough up.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it can increase drowsiness.
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you, especially if drowsiness occurs (though less common with phenylephrine).
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
10 mL (Guaifenesin 200 mg, Phenylephrine 10 mg) orally every 4 hours as needed
Dose Range:
10 - 60 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
maxDailyDose:
Do not exceed 6 doses (60 mL) in 24 hours.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
Not established (generally not recommended for children under 4 years)
Child:
Children 6 to under 12 years: 5 mL (Guaifenesin 100 mg, Phenylephrine 5 mg) orally every 4 hours as needed. Max 6 doses/24 hours. Not recommended for children under 6 years.
Adolescent:
Adolescents 12 years and older: Same as adult dose.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment recommended, use with caution.
Moderate:
Use with caution, monitor for adverse effects.
Severe:
Use with caution, monitor for adverse effects. Consult physician.
Dialysis:
Considerations: Not well studied, generally avoided unless benefits outweigh risks and under medical supervision.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment recommended, use with caution.
Moderate:
Use with caution, monitor for adverse effects.
Severe:
Use with caution, monitor for adverse effects. Consult physician.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Guaifenesin acts as an expectorant by increasing the volume and decreasing the viscosity of secretions in the trachea and bronchi, thereby facilitating the removal of mucus. Phenylephrine is a direct-acting sympathomimetic amine that acts predominantly on alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the arterioles of the nasal mucosa, causing vasoconstriction and reducing nasal congestion.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Guaifenesin: Rapidly absorbed. Phenylephrine: Variable (low oral bioavailability due to extensive first-pass metabolism).
Tmax:
Guaifenesin: ~1 hour. Phenylephrine: ~1-2 hours.
FoodEffect:
Guaifenesin: Minimal effect. Phenylephrine: Food may slightly delay absorption but generally not clinically significant.
Distribution:
Vd:
Guaifenesin: Not well established. Phenylephrine: Not well established.
ProteinBinding:
Guaifenesin: Not significant. Phenylephrine: Not significant.
CnssPenetration:
Guaifenesin: Limited. Phenylephrine: Limited (less than pseudoephedrine).
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Guaifenesin: ~1 hour. Phenylephrine: ~2-3 hours.
Clearance:
Not well established for combination.
ExcretionRoute:
Guaifenesin: Renal (as metabolites). Phenylephrine: Renal (as metabolites and unchanged drug).
Unchanged:
Guaifenesin: <1%. Phenylephrine: ~2-3%.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Guaifenesin: ~30 minutes. Phenylephrine: ~15-30 minutes.
PeakEffect:
Guaifenesin: ~1 hour. Phenylephrine: ~1-2 hours.
DurationOfAction:
Guaifenesin: ~4-6 hours. Phenylephrine: ~4 hours.
Confidence:
Medium
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
Feeling dizzy or sleepy
Feeling nervous and excitable
Trouble sleeping
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor can provide medical advice about side effects and help you manage any concerns.
While rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects when taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Although many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or do not go away, contact your doctor:
Feeling dizzy or sleepy
Feeling nervous and excitable
Trouble sleeping
Reporting Side Effects
This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor can provide medical advice about side effects and help you manage any concerns.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- If cough or nasal congestion worsens or lasts more than 7 days (5 days for children).
- If symptoms are accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.
- If you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, or a rapid heartbeat.
- If you develop signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling of face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, trouble breathing).
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced.
If you have taken certain medications for depression or Parkinson's disease within the last 14 days, including isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline, as this may lead to very high blood pressure.
If you are currently taking linezolid or methylene blue, as these medications can interact with this drug.
If you have a cough that produces a lot of mucus, a chronic cough caused by smoking or exposure to smoke, or lung conditions such as asthma or emphysema.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine whether it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced.
If you have taken certain medications for depression or Parkinson's disease within the last 14 days, including isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, or rasagiline, as this may lead to very high blood pressure.
If you are currently taking linezolid or methylene blue, as these medications can interact with this drug.
If you have a cough that produces a lot of mucus, a chronic cough caused by smoking or exposure to smoke, or lung conditions such as asthma or emphysema.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine whether it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Before engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving, wait until you understand how this drug affects you. Additionally, refrain from consuming alcohol while taking this medication.
Before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that may cause drowsiness, consult with your doctor. Adhere strictly to the dosage prescribed by your doctor, as exceeding the recommended amount may increase your risk of experiencing severe side effects. Furthermore, do not take this medication for a longer duration than specified by your doctor.
Be aware that different brands of this medication may be suitable for children of varying ages. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with your doctor before administering this drug to a child. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, inform your doctor, as you will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks to both you and your baby.
Before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that may cause drowsiness, consult with your doctor. Adhere strictly to the dosage prescribed by your doctor, as exceeding the recommended amount may increase your risk of experiencing severe side effects. Furthermore, do not take this medication for a longer duration than specified by your doctor.
Be aware that different brands of this medication may be suitable for children of varying ages. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with your doctor before administering this drug to a child. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding, inform your doctor, as you will need to discuss the potential benefits and risks to both you and your baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Guaifenesin: Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, dizziness.
- Phenylephrine: Severe headache, dizziness, nervousness, insomnia, tremors, seizures, hallucinations, high blood pressure, rapid or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, extreme weakness.
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222).
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) (e.g., phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue) - concurrent use or within 14 days of stopping MAOIs due to risk of hypertensive crisis.
Major Interactions
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) (e.g., amitriptyline, imipramine) - may potentiate pressor effects of phenylephrine.
- Beta-blockers (non-selective) (e.g., propranolol, nadolol) - may increase risk of hypertension and reflex bradycardia.
- Alpha-adrenergic blockers (e.g., prazosin, doxazosin) - may reduce decongestant effect and increase risk of hypotension.
- Ergot alkaloids (e.g., ergotamine, dihydroergotamine) - increased risk of vasoconstriction.
- Other sympathomimetics (e.g., pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, stimulants) - additive pressor effects, increased risk of cardiovascular adverse events.
Moderate Interactions
- Antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics) - phenylephrine may reduce the effectiveness of these medications.
- Digoxin - increased risk of arrhythmias.
- Thyroid hormones - increased risk of cardiovascular effects.
Minor Interactions
- None specifically for guaifenesin or phenylephrine at typical OTC doses.
Monitoring
Symptom Monitoring
- Effectiveness of cough relief and nasal decongestion
- Signs of adverse effects: increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, dizziness, nervousness, insomnia, headache, nausea, vomiting.
- Signs of allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling.
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Use with caution during pregnancy. Phenylephrine is generally avoided in the first trimester due to theoretical risks, and guaifenesin is considered low risk but data are limited. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Phenylephrine: Potential for vasoconstriction affecting uterine blood flow, though human data are limited and conflicting. Guaifenesin: Limited data, generally considered low risk.
Second Trimester:
Generally considered safer than first trimester, but still use with caution.
Third Trimester:
Phenylephrine: May cause maternal hypertension or reduced uterine blood flow. Guaifenesin: Generally considered low risk.
Lactation
Use with caution during breastfeeding. Both guaifenesin and phenylephrine are excreted into breast milk in small amounts. Monitor infant for irritability, sleep disturbances, or feeding issues.
Infant Risk:
L3 (Moderate risk - compatible with caution). Phenylephrine may cause irritability or sleep disturbances in infants. Guaifenesin is generally considered low risk to the infant.
Pediatric Use
Not recommended for children under 6 years of age due to potential for serious adverse effects and lack of proven efficacy. Always use pediatric-specific formulations and dosing for children 6-12 years. Consult a pediatrician before administering to young children.
Geriatric Use
Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased susceptibility to adverse effects of phenylephrine, such as elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate, and CNS stimulation (e.g., nervousness, insomnia). Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, glaucoma, or prostate enlargement are at higher risk.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Advise patients to stay well-hydrated when taking guaifenesin to maximize its expectorant effect.
- Caution patients with hypertension, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) against using phenylephrine without consulting a doctor.
- Remind patients that decongestants like phenylephrine are for short-term use only (typically no more than 7 days) to avoid rebound congestion (rhinitis medicamentosa) and other adverse effects.
- This combination product addresses both chest congestion (guaifenesin) and nasal/sinus congestion (phenylephrine), making it suitable for symptoms affecting both areas.
Alternative Therapies
- Single-ingredient Guaifenesin (e.g., Mucinex)
- Single-ingredient Phenylephrine (e.g., Sudafed PE)
- Saline nasal sprays (for congestion)
- Humidifiers (for cough/congestion)
- Cough suppressants (e.g., dextromethorphan, for dry cough)
- Antihistamines (for allergy-related congestion)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$5 - $20 per 120-240 mL bottle
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
OTC (Over-The-Counter), generally not covered by prescription plans unless specifically prescribed and covered by FSA/HSA.
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.