An expectorant that also has some muscle relaxing action. It is used in many cough preparations. [PubChem]
Indication
Used to assist the expectoration of phlegm from the airways in acute respiratory tract infections.
Pharmacology
Guaifenesin is an expectorant which increases the output of phlegm (sputum) and bronchial secretions by reducing adhesiveness and surface tension. The increased flow of less viscous secretions promotes ciliary action and changes a dry, unproductive cough to one that is more productive and less frequent. By reducing the viscosity and adhesiveness of secretions, guaifenesin increases the efficacy of the mucociliary mechanism in removing accumulated secretions from the upper and lower airway.
Toxicity
LD50 1510 mg/kg (rat, oral)
Affected Organisms
Humans and other mammals
Biotransformation
Rapidly hydrolyzed (60% within seven hours) and then excreted in the urine, with beta-(2-methoxyphenoxy)-lactic acid as its major urinary metabolite.
Research Area: Respiratory Diseases Biological Activity: Guaifenesin(Guaiphenesin) is thought to act as an expectorant by increasing the volume and reducing the viscosity of secretions in the trachea and bronchi. Thus, it may increase the efficiency of the cough reflex and facilitate removal of the secretions; however, objective evidence for this is limited and conflicting. [1]
Harmful (Xn)
