Ingredient

Guaifenesin

Guaifenesin is an expectorant ingredient that alleviates cough and phlegm.

All medicines
390
Combination
390
Prescription medication
11
OTC medication
379

MFDS ingredient code M050058

What does it do?

Guaifenesin belongs to the class of expectorants that thin mucus in the airways, helping to expel phlegm. It is primarily used to relieve cough and phlegm symptoms.

Guaifenesin helps to reduce the viscosity of airway mucus, making it easier to expel phlegm. As a result, cough becomes less bothersome and breathing is more comfortable.

Approved uses differ by product. Check each product's information for its actual use.

Good to know

Unlike ingredients that simply suppress cough, Guaifenesin is characterized by its ability to thin phlegm and facilitate its expulsion. Therefore, it is particularly effective for cough accompanied by phlegm.

Medicines containing this ingredient

Even with the same ingredient, strength, dosage form and how it is taken can differ.

Category
Dosage form
Strength
Category

390 total

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Even with the same ingredient, dosage and approved uses can differ by strength, dosage form and combined ingredients. Check each product's information before taking it.

Combined ingredients

Ingredients used together with this ingredient in combination products.

Questions about this ingredient

  • QWhat if I take an expectorant and my cough gets worse?

    Guaifenesin works by thinning mucus and aiding its expulsion, so adhering to the dosage instructions on the product label is fundamental. If your cough worsens or you experience difficulty breathing while taking it, seek medical attention rather than continuing to take it.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

  • QIf I take a cold medicine along with an expectorant, could guaifenesin overlap?

    Guaifenesin is found in various cough and phlegm medications, so taking a combination of a cold medicine and a phlegm medication may lead to overlapping active ingredients. Please compare the ingredient lists of both products, and if they overlap, consult your pharmacist about whether to take only one.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

  • QDoes it work for dry coughs as well?

    According to the ingredient description, guaifenesin is characterized by its ability to thin mucus and assist in its expulsion, making it particularly effective for coughs that produce phlegm. If you have a dry cough without phlegm, another medication may be more suitable, so please describe your symptoms to your pharmacist and consult them.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

See all questions

  • QIs guaifenesin a medication that stops coughing?

    Guaifenesin is an active ingredient that does not suppress cough itself but rather reduces the viscosity of airway mucus to facilitate easier expectoration. Thus, it is mainly used for coughs accompanied by phlegm.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

For anything that needs medical judgment, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

SourceKorea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (Drug Safety Korea)

This drug information is based on data provided by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
Consult a doctor or pharmacist for accurate dosage, administration, and usage instructions.