guaifenesin and hydrocodone

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Guaifenesin and hydrocodone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking guaifenesin and hydrocodone.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any other medicine without first talking to your doctor.

Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible to become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if guaifenesin and hydrocodone is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

Guaifenesin is an expectorant. Guaifenesin loosens phlegm and increases the lubrication of the lungs allowing for a productive cough and decreased chest congestion.

Hydrocodone is a narcotic. It is a pain reliever and a cough suppressant.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone is used to treat cough and nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergies and infections.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Hydrocodone is habit forming and should only be used under close supervision by patients with past or current alcohol or drug addiction.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• kidney disease;
• liver disease;
• asthma;
• urinary retention;
• an enlarged prostate;
• hypothyroidism;
• seizures or epilepsy;
• gallbladder disease;
• a head injury; or
• Addison's Disease.

You may not be able to take guaifenesin and hydrocodone, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether guaifenesin and hydrocodone will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take guaifenesin and hydrocodone without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone passes into breast milk and may be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not take guaifenesin and hydrocodone without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from guaifenesin and hydrocodone. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.

Take guaifenesin and hydrocodone exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the directions on your prescription bottle, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain the instructions to you.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone can be taken with or without food.

Take the oral tablets and capsules with a full glass of water.

To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of guaifenesin and hydrocodone with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Do not take more of this medication or take it for longer than is recommended. If your symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, talk to your doctor.

Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible to become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if guaifenesin and hydrocodone is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

Store guaifenesin and hydrocodone at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a guaifenesin and hydrocodone overdose may include extreme drowsiness, dizziness, headache, seizures, dry mouth, cold and clammy skin, flushing, nausea, vomiting, difficult or decreased breathing, and unconsciousness.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Guaifenesin and hydrocodone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking guaifenesin and hydrocodone.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any other medicine without first talking to your doctor.

Do not take other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, diet, pain, or sleep medications while taking guaifenesin and hydrocodone without first talking to your pharmacist or doctor. Other medications may also contain hydrocodone, guaifenesin or other similar drugs, and you may accidentally take too much of these medicines.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking guaifenesin and hydrocodone and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

• a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
• confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take guaifenesin and hydrocodone and talk to your doctor if you experience

• dizziness, drowsiness, or sleepiness;
• restlessness or irritability;
• blurred vision;
• constipation;
• dry mouth;
• nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;
• muscle twitches;
• sweating;
• itching; or
• decreased urination.

Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible to become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if guaifenesin and hydrocodone is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.

Do not take other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, diet, pain, or sleep medications while taking guaifenesin and hydrocodone without first talking to your pharmacist or doctor. Other medications may also contain hydrocodone, guaifenesin, or other similar drugs, and you may accidentally take too much of these medicines.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with guaifenesin and hydrocodone. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Your pharmacist has more information about guaifenesin and hydrocodone written for health professionals that you may read.

Guaifenesin and hydrocodone is available with a prescription under the brand names Vicodin Tuss and Vicotuss. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.