guaiacol glycerol ether

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action 

Expectorant: guaiacol glycerol ether functions as an expectorant by enhancing the quantity of respiratory tract secretions while decreasing their viscosity. This helps to make mucus less sticky and easier to expel from the lungs and airways.  

Spectrum: 

Cough: relieves both productive (with mucus) and non-productive (dry) coughs. By thinning and loosening mucus, it helps make coughing more effective in clearing the airways. 

Common Cold: guaiacol glycerol ether can benefit individuals with colds, as it aids in expelling mucus and reducing coughing fits caused by irritated airways. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

vomiting 

stomach upset 

dizziness 

headache 

rash 

nausea 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Hypersensitivity: Individuals hypersensitive or allergic to guaiacol glycerol ether or its components should avoid using guaiacol glycerol ether products. 

Severe Respiratory Conditions: If a person suffers from severe respiratory conditions, such as COPD, severe asthma, or respiratory failure, they should consult a healthcare provider before using guaiacol glycerol ether or any over-the-counter medication. 

Persistent or Chronic Cough: A persistent or chronic cough can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. guaiacol glycerol ether may only provide temporary relief and not treat the root cause of the cough. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable in such cases. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using guaiacol glycerol ether to ensure it’s safe for both the mother and the baby. 

Pediatric Use: While guaiacol glycerol ether is often used in pediatric formulations, the appropriate dosage for children varies based on age and weight. Parents or caregivers should consult a pediatrician for proper dosing instructions. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

guaiacol glycerol ether, also known as guaifenesin, is an expectorant medication commonly used to help loosen and thin mucus in the airways. 

Pharmacodynamics:  

Mucoactive Properties: guaiacol glycerol ether are characterized by its ability to modify mucus rheology and facilitate removal from the airways. It acts on the mucus gel layer within the respiratory tract, reducing its viscosity and promoting expectoration. By reducing mucus viscosity, the compound enhances the efficiency of mucociliary clearance, whereby cilia move mucus out of the airways, aiding in the removal of pathogens and irritants.   

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

Upon oral ingestion, it undergoes absorption predominantly in the gastrointestinal tract. Its lipophilic nature facilitates the absorption process, allowing the compound to traverse cellular membranes and enter the systemic circulation. 

Distribution 

Following absorption, guaiacol glycerol ether rapidly distributes within the body due to its moderate volume of distribution. It exhibits an affinity for tissues with high perfusion, resulting in widespread distribution to organs such as the liver, kidney, and lungs.  

Metabolism 

Metabolism of guaiacol glycerol ether primarily occurs in the liver through enzymatic processes. Phase I metabolism involves oxidation, primarily mediated by cytochrome P450 enzymes, yielding metabolites subsequently conjugated in Phase II reactions. The resultant metabolites are more hydrophilic, facilitating their excretion. 

Excretion and Elimination 

The elimination of guaiacol glycerol ether and its metabolites primarily occurs through renal excretion. The hydrophilic metabolites, conjugated during Phase II metabolism, are readily filtered by the glomerulus and subsequently excreted in urine. A minor fraction of the compound can also be eliminated via the bile into the feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

Oral Administration: guaiacol glycerol ether is frequently administered orally, primarily through oral solutions or syrups. The compound is ingested, subsequently undergoing gastrointestinal absorption. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: guaiacol glycerol ether 

Why do we use guaiacol glycerol ether?  

Expectorant Action: guaiacol glycerol ether’s expectorant properties underscore its role in facilitating the removal of respiratory mucus. Promoting the mobilization and clearance of mucus from the airways contributes to a reduction in cough severity and enhances overall pulmonary hygiene.  

Bronchodilatory Potential: A prominent utilization of guaiacol glycerol ether lies within its bronchodilatory effects. Its capability to relax smooth bronchial muscles has positioned it as an adjunctive treatment in respiratory conditions characterized by bronchoconstriction, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).