Unapproved Guaifenesin Timed-Release Drug Products

Published: Fri May 25 00:00:00 +0000 2007

FDA informed consumers and healthcare professionals of its intent to take action against companies that market unapproved timed-release dosage form of guaifenesin products, a substance commonly used in medicines to relieve cough and cold symptoms by stimulating removal of mucous from the lungs. These dosage forms are often described as extended-release, long-acting or sustained-release products that release their active ingredients over an extended period of time, reducing the number of doses needed per day. Approximately 20 firms make unapproved timed-release products containing guaifenesin that have not undergone FDA review for safety and efficacy. Mucinex, Mucinex-D, Mucinex-DM, and Humibid are the only FDA approved timed-release guaifenesin (single ingredient or combination) products. Companies marketing unapproved products containing guaifenesin in timed-release form are expected to stop manufacturing them within 90 days and must cease shipping them in interstate commerce within 180 days. This action does not affect products containing guaifenesin in immediate release form.