Health Library Mucolytics for SinusitisFrom Healthwise

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

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

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

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.)

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.

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Author:	Amy Fackler, MA Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: August 22, 2006
Medical Review:	Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine Martin Gabica, MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Charles M. Myer, III, MD - Otolaryngology
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