guaifenesin/ephedrine - oral liquid, Broncholate

GENERIC NAME: GUAIFENESIN/EPHEDRINE - ORAL LIQUID (gweye-FEN-eh-sin/eff-ED-rin)

BRAND NAME(S): Broncholate

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Guaifenesin/ephedrine liquid is used for the temporary relief of shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness due to asthma. It is also used for coughs caused by certain infections of the air passages (e.g., bronchitis, sinusitis, common cold), especially when the cough produces phlegm. This product is, generally, not used for an ongoing cough from smoking or long-term breathing problems (e.g., chronic bronchitis, emphysema), unless directed by your doctor.Ephedrine is called a sympathomimetic and works by relaxing airways to make breathing easier. Guaifenesin is called an expectorant. It works by making phlegm in the breathing tubes more liquid. This helps the cough to clear phlegm better.Ephedrine-containing products should not be used for weight loss, body building, enhancing athletic performance, or increasing energy/alertness, either alone or in combination with other stimulants (e.g., caffeine, sympathomimetic drugs found in nonprescription products). Doing so may increase your risk of serious (possibly fatal) side effects. (See also Side Effects section.)Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Therefore, do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually every 4 hours as needed or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, take with food or milk. Use the dosage cup provided or a special medication measuring spoon to measure out the correct dose. The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to therapy. Check the product directions to find out the correct dose for you.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.If your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, if they worsen, or if you develop a fever/chills, contact your doctor. Do not take more medication than is recommended