Mucolytics for sinusitis

Content provided by Healthwise

Examples

Brand Name	Chemical 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	Amy Fackler, MA
Author	Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Associate Editor	Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer	Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Updated	August 22, 2006

Last updated:	August 22, 2006
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Terrina Vail

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