In this Article

• What is codeine and guaifenesin (Robitussin Ac)?
• What are the possible side effects of codeine and guaifenesin?
• What is the most important information I should know about codeine and guaifenesin?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking codeine and guaifenesin?
• How should I take codeine and guaifenesin?
• What happens if I miss a dose?
• What happens if I overdose?
• What should I avoid while taking codeine and guaifenesin?
• What other drugs will affect codeine and guaifenesin?
• Where can I get more information?

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since cough medicine is taken when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of codeine can be fatal.

Overdose symptoms may include extreme dizziness or drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, confusion, hallucinations, cold and clammy skin, blue-colored lips or fingernails, weak or limp muscles, pinpoint pupils, weak pulse, slow breathing, fainting, or seizures (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking codeine and guaifenesin?

This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other cough or cold medicine. Guaifenesin is contained in many combination medicines. Taking certain products together can cause you to get too much guaifenesin. Check the label to see if a medicine contains an guaifenesin, or an expectorant.

Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of codeine and guaifenesin.

What other drugs will affect codeine and guaifenesin?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by codeine and guaifenesin.

Also tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

• cimetidine (Tagamet);
• quinidine (Quin-G);
• naloxone (Narcan); or
• naltrexone (Vivitrol).

This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with codeine and guaifenesin. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about codeine and guaifenesin.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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