A Review on Study of Effect of Guaifenesin

Abstract

Guaifenesin is a very commonly used and prescribed oral expectorant drug. However, its mechanism of action is not completely elucidated and the available information is limited. The purpose was to evaluate whether guaifenesin action on respiratory tract secretion is mediated through a reflex stimulation of the gastric mucosa or by the systemic exposure due to the absorption of the drug to the blood circulation. It was demonstrated that expectorant action of guaifenesin is mediated by stimulation of the gastrointestinal tract and not by the systemic exposure to the drug. Guaifenesin, a mucoactive drug, acts by loosening mucus in the airways and making coughs more productive. It is used for relief of wet cough and chest congestion due to the common cold, and remains the only legally marketed expectorant in the US (per OTC Monograph). An ingredient in numerous over-the-counter (OTC) cough/cold medications, guaifenesin has a secondary indication for use in stable chronic bronchitis (professional indication). Guaifenesin is an expectorant that is thought to increase hydration and decrease viscosity of mucus leading to improved clearance of accumulated secretions from the upper and lower airway.

Keywords: Expectorant, Gastric stimulation, Local action, Region-specific absorption, Respiratory secretion, Vagal reflex

Cite this Article

P.M. Kale. A Review on Study of Effect of Guaifenesin. Research & Reviews: A Journal of Drug Design & Discovery. 2020; 7(3): 8–11p.