Mucolytics for sinusitis

Examples

Generic Name	Brand Name
guaifenesin	Mucinex, Robitussin

How It Works

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

Why It Is Used

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

How Well It Works

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

Side Effects

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.)

What To Think About

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	Last Updated: August 15, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
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