astharid expectorant - Guaifenesin (66.65mg) + Terbutaline (1.5mg) medicine

Astharid Expectorant: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Empiai Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 28, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for symptomatic relief in respiratory conditions with bronchospasm and mucus.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 28, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in sputum or vomit
  • Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Irregular or rapid heartbeat
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Seizures
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is astharid expectorant used for?

This medicine is a combination of guaifenesin (expectorant) and terbutaline (bronchodilator) used to relieve productive cough and bronchospasm in conditions like bronchitis, COPD, and asthma. It helps loosen mucus and open airways.

  • Generic Name: Guaifenesin + Terbutaline
  • Manufacturer: Empiai Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 astharid expectorant के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा गुआइफेनेसिन और टर्ब्यूटालीन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग ब्रोंकाइटिस, सीओपीडी और अस्थमा जैसी श्वसन स्थितियों में बलगम वाली खांसी और श्वसन मार्ग के संकुचन के लक्षणों से राहत के लिए किया जाता है। यह बलगम को पतला करके बाहर निकालने में मदद करती है और श्वसन मार्ग को खोलती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, पेट की गड़बड़ी, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना, घबराहट, कंपन, धड़कन बढ़ना और हृदय गति में वृद्धि शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में एलर्जी, छाती में दर्द, अनियमित हृदय गति और दौरे पड़ सकते हैं। किसी भी गंभीर लक्षण पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। निर्धारित मात्रा से अधिक न लें। इस दवा के साथ शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आपको हृदय रोग, उच्च रक्तचाप, मधुमेह, थायरॉइड विकार या दौरे की समस्या है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से परामर्श करें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 astharid expectorant Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Productive cough associated with acute bronchitis","description":"Helps loosen mucus and relax bronchial muscles, making cough more productive and easing breathing.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with bronchospasm and thick secretions","description":"Provides symptomatic relief by bronchodilation and thinning of mucus.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Asthma with bronchospasm and mucus plugging","description":"Used as an adjunct to controller therapy for symptomatic relief; not for acute severe attacks.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Bronchiectasis with excessive mucus","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label to help clear secretions.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Productive cough with bronchospasm

Also treats: Acute bronchitis, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Asthma

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Guaifenesin + Terbutaline
Brand NameAsthakind Expectorant Sugar Free
ManufacturerEmpiai Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassExpectorant and Bronchodilator
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
2
Stay well hydrated throughout the day to help loosen mucus.
3
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase drowsiness and cardiovascular effects.
4
Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.
6
Report any unusual heart palpitations, tremor, or nervousness to your doctor.
7
If you have asthma, do not use this medicine as a rescue inhaler for acute attacks.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Productive cough
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Wheezing
Terbutaline helps relieve bronchospasm.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionGuaifenesin is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Terbutaline is well absorbed orally, but undergoes some first-pass metabolism. Not established from the available information for specific pharmacokinetic parameters of this combination.
DistributionGuaifenesin distributes widely into body tissues and fluids. Terbutaline distributes into most body tissues, with some accumulation in the liver, kidneys, and skeletal muscle. Not established from the available information for specific volumes of distribution.
Protein BindingGuaifenesin: Not established from the available information. Terbutaline: Approximately 25% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismGuaifenesin is metabolized in the liver via oxidation and conjugation. Terbutaline undergoes conjugation in the liver to inactive sulfate esters. Not established from the available information for specific enzyme pathways.
Half-LifeGuaifenesin: Approximately 1 hour. Terbutaline: Approximately 3-4 hours. Not established from the available information for the combination product.
ExcretionGuaifenesin is excreted primarily in the urine as metabolites. Terbutaline is excreted mainly in the urine as unchanged drug and conjugates.
BioavailabilityGuaifenesin: Not established from the available information. Terbutaline: Approximately 30-50% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionTerbutaline: Bronchodilation occurs within 15-30 minutes after oral administration. Guaifenesin: Expectorant effect may take several hours to become noticeable.
Peak Plasma TimeTerbutaline: 2-4 hours. Guaifenesin: Not established from the available information.
Duration of ActionTerbutaline: 4-6 hours. Guaifenesin: Not established from the available information.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary actions. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that increases the volume and reduces the viscosity of respiratory tract secretions by irritating the gastric mucosa and reflexively stimulating respiratory tract secretions. Terbutaline is a selective beta-2 adrenergic receptor agonist that stimulates beta-2 receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, leading to relaxation and bronchodilation. It also inhibits the release of mediators from mast cells and improves mucociliary clearance.

Mechanism Steps

1
Guaifenesin stimulates gastric mucosa: Guaifenesin irritates the gastric mucosa, which reflexively stimulates the respiratory tract to produce more watery secretions.
2
Reduction in mucus viscosity: The increased watery secretions reduce the thickness and stickiness of mucus, making it easier to cough up.
3
Terbutaline binds to beta-2 receptors: Terbutaline selectively binds to beta-2 adrenergic receptors on bronchial smooth muscle cells.
4
Bronchodilation: Binding activates intracellular cyclic AMP, leading to relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle and widening of airways.
5
Improved mucociliary clearance: The combination of loosened mucus and open airways enhances the natural clearance of secretions.

💡 How to Take astharid expectorant

Strength: Each tablet or 5 mL of syrup contains Guaifenesin 66.65 mg and Terbutaline 1.5 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2Take it with food to reduce stomach upset.
3Do not crush or chew the tablet; swallow it whole.
4If using syrup, measure the dose with a proper measuring cup or spoon.
5Follow your doctor's instructions regarding frequency and duration.
6Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 1 tablet or 5 mL of syrup taken 2 to 3 times daily, or as directed by your physician. The dose may vary based on the severity of the condition and individual response. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the cardiovascular effects of terbutaline. Use with caution and lower doses may be appropriate. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 3 tablets or 15 mL of syrup in divided doses, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Caffeine
Limit
May increase nervousness and palpitations.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of astharid expectorant

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce stomach upset. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Stay hydrated. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Tremor (Common (5-10%))
Usually diminishes with continued use. Avoid caffeine. Consult doctor if bothersome.
Nervousness (Common (5-10%))
Try relaxation techniques. If severe, consult your doctor.
Palpitations (Common (5-10%))
Report to your doctor if persistent or accompanied by chest pain.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face/lips/throat, or difficulty breathing.
Cardiac arrhythmias (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or fainting.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if seizures occur.
Hypokalemia (Rare (<0.1%))
Report muscle weakness, cramps, or palpitations to your doctor.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Paradoxical bronchospasm
Seek immediate medical attention if breathing worsens after taking this medicine.
Hyperglycemia
Monitor blood sugar if diabetic. Report increased thirst or urination.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Propranolol Major
MAOIs Major
Tricyclic antidepressants Major
Furosemide Moderate
Corticosteroids Moderate
Digoxin Moderate
Caffeine Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Non-selective beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Diuretics (e.g., furosemide)
  • Corticosteroids
  • Digoxin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase drowsiness, dizziness, and cardiovascular effects. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to guaifenesin, terbutaline, or any component of the formulation","Severe cardiac disease","Uncontrolled hypertension","Hyperthyroidism","Children under 12 years (unless prescribed by a pediatrician)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, including coronary insufficiency, arrhythmias, and hypertension.","Use with caution in patients with diabetes mellitus, as terbutaline may increase blood glucose levels.","Use with caution in patients with seizure disorders.","Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism.","Do not exceed the recommended dose.","Avoid concomitant use with non-selective beta-blockers.","May cause tremor and nervousness; avoid driving or operating machinery if affected."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Terbutaline is excreted in breast milk. Guaifenesin is also excreted in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medicine.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe tachycardia, palpitations, tremor, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase drowsiness and cardiovascular effects. Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or seizure disorders. Do not use this medicine for a prolonged period without medical supervision. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the cardiovascular effects of terbutaline. Use with caution and monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult your doctor before planning pregnancy if you are taking this medicine. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist if you are taking this medicine before surgery. It may interact with anesthetic agents.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may cause dry mouth or interact with certain medications used in dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help thin mucus.
🥗
Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke.
😴
Use a humidifier to keep airways moist.
💧
Practice deep breathing exercises.
🧘
Get adequate rest to support recovery.
🌞
Avoid known allergens and pollutants.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise if you experience palpitations, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include warm fluids like soups and herbal teas.
Avoid cold and processed foods.
Limit caffeine intake.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause tremor, nervousness, or dizziness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine should be under medical supervision. Prolonged use of terbutaline may lead to tolerance and reduced effectiveness. Regular monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and potassium levels may be required. Do not use for extended periods without consulting your doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps loosen mucus and ease breathing.

Evidence: Well-established
Chest physiotherapy

Can help clear secretions in chronic respiratory conditions.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions reported. However, consult your doctor regarding flu and pneumonia vaccines if you have chronic respiratory disease.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight and moisture. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing times gradually as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 45-year-old man with acute bronchitis
He was prescribed this medicine for a productive cough and wheezing. After taking it as directed with food, his cough became more productive and breathing improved within two days. He experienced mild tremor initially, which subsided after a few days.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food and staying hydrated helps with tolerability and efficacy.
👤 A 60-year-old woman with COPD
She used this medicine as part of her COPD management. It helped her clear mucus and reduced breathlessness. She was advised to monitor her heart rate and report any palpitations.
💡 Lesson: Regular monitoring and adherence to prescribed dose are important, especially in elderly patients with underlying heart conditions.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Terbutaline starts working within 15-30 minutes, while guaifenesin may take a few hours to show its expectorant effect.

Q: Can I take it with other medicines?

A: Inform your doctor about all medicines you take, especially beta-blockers, MAOIs, and diuretics, as interactions may occur.

Q: Is it safe during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor before use. It should be used only if clearly needed.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my heart?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for astharid expectorant

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure asthma permanently.
    Fact: This medicine provides symptomatic relief but does not cure asthma. It should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine without a prescription.
    Fact: This medicine should only be taken under medical supervision as it can cause serious side effects.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Guaifenesin + Terbutaline combination (generic)

Brand Alternatives

  • Astharid Expectorant

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Guaifenesin 66.65 mg + Terbutaline 1.5 mg","uses":"Productive cough with bronchospasm","notes":"Combination of expectorant and bronchodilator."},{"medicine":"Guaifenesin + Salbutamol","composition":"Guaifenesin + Salbutamol","uses":"Productive cough with bronchospasm","notes":"Salbutamol is a shorter-acting beta-2 agonist."}]

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