Mucolytics for sinusitis

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Examples

Brand Name	Generic Name
Robitussin	guaifenesin

Guaifenesin may help thin the mucus, improving drainage of mucus from the nose and sinuses during sinusitis.

Guaifenesin may be used to treat symptoms caused by acute or chronic sinusitis. It is usually used along with antibiotics and home treatment.

Guaifenesin has not been proven to be effective in reducing symptoms of sinusitis, but it is widely used.

In general, guaifenesin is safe for all people when used as directed.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

Guaifenesin is inexpensive and available without a prescription. There is no evidence showing that it is effective in treating sinusitis.

It is often combined with another medicine such as a cough suppressant or decongestant.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Author	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Denele Ivins
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Updated	August 15, 2008

Last updated:	August 15, 2008
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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