Guaifen

Guaifen-C, a brand name for the generic combination of codeine and guaifenesin, is a strong pain reliever, cough suppressant and expectorant. It is effective in the treatment of cough caused by bacterial infections in the upper respiratory system, allergies or the common cold. It does not treat coughing and congestion due to asthma, emphysema or smoking.

Codeine affects the brain as both a narcotic pain reliever and as a cough suppressant by controlling areas of the brain that control the cough reflex. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that works by loosening the mucus in the lungs.

The medication combination is also found under other brand names, including Allfen CD, Allfen CDX, Brontex, Cheracol with Codeine, Cheratussin AC, Dex-Tuss, Diabetic Tussin C, Duraganidin NR, ExeClear-C, Guaiatussin AC, Guiatuss AC, Guiatussin with Codeine, Iophen C-NR, M-Clear WC, Mar-cof CG, Mytussin AC, Robafen AC, Robitussin-AC, Tussi-Organidin NR, Tussi-Organidin-S NR, Tussiden C and Tusso-C.

Abuses of Guaifen-C

Guaifen-C, and other over-the-counter cough medications like it, are often targets of individuals looking for an inexpensive high. Not only is the price right, it is easily purchased and does not arouse suspicion when possessed. Abusers have been known to mix the drug with soda and hard candy to experience stronger effects. Like all narcotics, Guaifen-C is very addictive and overdose can be lethal.

Codeine is a morphine derivative and produces a similar type of dependency to heroin, though it is less potent. Addiction causes intense desires for added usage, increasing the dependence and increasing the risk of overdose.

Effects of Guaifen-C

The effects of Guaifen-C start within forty-five minutes of oral administration and generally last between four to six hours. Codeine is absorbed through the gastro-intestinal tract with little loss of the drug during the passage through the liver. As with all morphine derivatives, codeine is converted to morphine when it enters the brain, to similar effects. Guaifen-C is an effective expectorant and is often prescribed for patients who are experiencing a non-productive cough.

Potential side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, warmth, redness or skin rash, itching or tingling under the skin, nausea or vomiting, and constipation.

Guaifen-C is a known narcotic and the danger of psychotropic and physical addiction is high, so closely following doctor’s orders is important. Addiction can increase the side effects mentioned above.

Withdrawal from Guaifen-C

If dependency occurs, abrupt cessation causes intense withdrawal symptoms. These can last for several days with intensity before subsiding.

Symptoms associated with Guaifen-C withdrawal include but are not limited to:

· Nausea

· Pain

· Anxiety

· Diarrhea

· Insomnia

· Irritability

Treatment of Guaifen-C addiction

Extended use of Guaifen-C can lead to extreme physical pain and psychological distress if the medication is stopped suddenly. As a result, it is recommended that users be treated under the care of a board-certified physician and board-certified addiction psychiatrist and follow a careful plan to ease suffering and improve chances of complete removal of the drug from their bodies.

Often 24/7 care at a detox center is often recommended to ensure complete and lasting recovery. Drugs are routinely administered in a careful manner in these centers for those wishing to discontinue addiction to Guaifen-C. The medications used in treatment should also be combined with psychological evaluations for highest effectiveness.