Names:

• Guafenesin
• (RS)-3-(2-methoxyphenoxy)propane-1,2-diol

 

This week’s MOTW is Guaifenesin! Guaifenesin is an expectorant drug that is sold over the counter and has many trade names but most notably, Mucinex! An expectorant drug helps bring up phlegm from the airways and is often times sold in conjunction with other cold remedy drugs like dextromethorphan and phenylephrine.

Guaifenesin is said to work by increasing the volume and decreasing the viscosity of the mucosa in the trachea and bronchi. This allows the secretions to flow better and increases the ability of the cilia in the trachea to move the secretions upward toward the pharynx.