Mucinex Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

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Generic name: guaifenesin [ gwye-FEN-e-sin ]
Drug class: Expectorants

Medically reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MD. Last updated on Jun 5, 2023.

What is Mucinex?

Mucinex is an expectorant. It helps loosen congestion in your chest and throat, making it easier to cough out through your mouth.

Mucinex is used to reduce chest congestion caused by the common cold, infections, or allergies.

Mucinex may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Mucinex if you are allergic to guaifenesin.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use Mucinex if you have other medical conditions.

It is not known whether Mucinex will harm an unborn baby. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether guaifenesin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give Mucinex to a child without medical advice.

How should I take Mucinex?

Use Mucinex exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Cough medicine is usually taken only for a short time until your symptoms clear up.

Take Mucinex with food if it upsets your stomach.

Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Drink extra fluids to help loosen the congestion and lubricate your throat while you are taking this medication.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

Dosing information

Usual Adult Dose of Mucinex for Cough:

• Immediate release formulation: 200 to 400 mg orally every 4 hours as needed, not to exceed 2.4 g/day
• Sustained release formulation: 600 to 1200 mg orally every 12 hours, not to exceed 2.4 g/day

Usual Pediatric Dose of Mucinex for Cough:

Immediate release formulation:

• Less than 2 years: 12 mg/kg/day orally in 6 divided doses
• 2 to 5 years: 50 to 100 mg orally every 4 hours as needed, not to exceed 600 mg/day
• 6 to 11 years: 100 to 200 mg orally every 4 hours as needed, not to exceed 1.2 g/day
• 12 years or older: 200 to 400 mg orally every 4 hours as needed, not to exceed 2.4 g/day

Sustained release formulation:

• 2 to 5 years: 300 mg orally every 12 hours, not to exceed 600 mg/day
• 6 to 11 years: 600 mg orally every 12 hours, not to exceed 1. 2 g/day
• 12 years or older: 600 to 1200 mg orally every 12 hours, not to exceed 2.4 g/day

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since cough or cold medicine is taken when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What to avoid

Mucinex may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other cold, or cough medicine. Many combination medicines contain Mucinex. Taking certain products together can cause you to get too much of a certain drug. Check the label to see if a medicine contains an expectorant.

Mucinex side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Mucinex: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of Mucinex may include:

• dizziness;
• headache;
• rash;
• nausea;
• vomiting;
• stomach upset.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Mucinex ?

Other drugs may interact with guaifenesin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Popular FAQ

Yes, Mucinex and Nyquil can be taken together because they contain different ingredients, but Mucinex DM and Nyquil should not be taken together because they share a common ingredient, dextromethorphan. Instead of taking Mucinex DM and Nyquil together you should just take Nyquil. Continue reading

Yes, there are 4 Mucinex over-the-counter (OTC) daytime products that can help with your sore throat. Three products come as lozenges that contain hexylresorcinol and one is an oral spray with benzocaine. They all belong to the Mucinex InstaSoothe line of products. Continue reading

Some research suggests that Mucinex may help increase fertility by keeping the cervical mucus thin around the time of ovulation, which ensures sperm can travel freely through the cervix and helps with sperm survival. An increase in fertility can help increase your chances of becoming pregnant. Women with hostile mucus as the only cause of their infertility are the ones most likely to benefit from guaifenesin treatment. Continue reading

More FAQ

• I have high blood pressure. Can I take Mucinex DM safely?
• What is the difference between Mucinex D and Mucinex DM?
• Can I take Claritin with Mucinex DM?

View more FAQ

References

1. Mucinex Product Label

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Professional resources

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Related treatment guides

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Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Mucinex only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 6.03.

11 to Know, for Children, and More

Mucinex can cause mild to moderate side effects in some people. This can include digestive symptoms, dizziness, and drowsiness.

If mucus sits in your airways, bacteria can collect and grow there as well. That bacteria can lead to infection.

If you need help breaking up the mucus in your chest, you might consider a type of medication known as an expectorant.

Expectorants are used to treat chest congestion and cough. They help relieve chest congestion by breaking up mucus that’s stuck in your airways so you can cough it up.

The drug guaifenesin is currently the only expectorant that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for over-the-counter (OTC) use. It’s found in many popular products, including Mucinex.

Guaifenesin is safe and well-tolerated. It’s quite possible that you can take it or Mucinex and have no side effects. In fact, most people do not. Still, they can cause side effects in some people.

There are multiple versions of Mucinex.

The products that contain guaifenesin are available as a liquid, a tablet, or granules. Products with DM in their names also include small amounts of the ingredient dextromethorphan, which helps suppress cough.

Mucinex products with guaifenesin as their main active ingredient are:

• Children’s Cough Mini-Melts – Orange Creme Flavor
• Children’s FreeFrom Cough & Mucus
• Children’s Multi-Symptom Cold – Very Berry Flavor
• DM Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
• Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
• Maximum Strength DM Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
• Maximum Strength Extended-Release Bi-Layer Tablets
• Maximum Strength Fast-Max Chest Congestion Honey & Berry Flavor
• Maximum Strength Fast-Max DM MAX
• Maximum Strength Fast-Max DM MAX Honey & Berry Flavor
• Maximum Strength Fast-Max Severe Congestion & Cough

Most other versions of Mucinex also contain guaifenesin but have acetaminophen as their main active ingredient.

The side effects that people can experience with Mucinex are usually mild to moderate. Some of the common side effects typically affect three different systems of the body.

The digestive system

Mucinex may cause the following digestive issues:

• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea

The nervous system

Mucinex may also cause:

• dizziness
• headache
• drowsiness

The integumentary system (skin)

Mucinex can sometimes lead to a rash or hives.

Generally, if you use guaifenesin or Mucinex as directed, you should not have serious side effects. However, overuse or misuse can cause problems.

Taking a dosage that’s too high may increase your risk of:

• dizziness
• headache
• severe gastrointestinal issues
• kidney stones

Only people who are at least 12 years old should take Mucinex tablets. The FDA has not approved them for use in children younger than that.

However, children as young as 4 years old can use liquid Mucinex or Mucinex Mini-Melts. Mini-Melts are granules that you sprinkle on the tongue. These products are specifically marked for children on the packaging.

If your child is younger than 4 years old, speak with their doctor about the best way to treat their cough. Side effects of Mucinex in children are generally the same as they are in adults.

Overall, if you use Mucinex as directed, you probably will not have side effects. If you do have any, they’re usually mild.

There are some things you can do to help ease any bothersome side effects. For example, if Mucinex upsets your stomach, try taking it with food or a glass of milk.

Only use Mucinex for cough and chest congestion from mucus buildup. If you have another type of cough or are unsure what’s causing your cough, speak with a doctor before using Mucinex.

Also, check with a doctor before using Mucinex if you take other medications or have other medical conditions. They can help you avoid potentially harmful drug interactions.

what side effects can it cause? – Drink-Drink

Contents

• Types of Mucinex
• Most common side effects
  • Digestive system
  • Nervous system
  • Integumentary system (skin)

  90 015

  • Serious side effects
  • Mucinex for children
  • Conclusion

  If mucus is in the airways, bacteria can collect and multiply there. These bacteria can lead to infection.

  If you need help loosening mucus in your chest, you may want to consider a type of medicine known as an expectorant.

  Expectorants are used to treat chest congestion and cough. They help relieve chest congestion by breaking up mucus stuck in your airways so you can cough it up.

  Guaifenesin is currently the only expectorant approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over-the-counter (OTC) use. It is found in many popular products, including Mucinex.

  Guaifenesin is safe and well tolerated. It is possible that you can take it or Mucinex and have no side effects. In fact, most people don’t. However, they may cause side effects in some people.

  Mucinex species

  There are several versions of Mucinex.

  Products containing guaifenesin are available as liquid, tablets or granules. Products with DM in the name also contain a small amount of the ingredient dextromethorphan, which helps suppress coughs.

  Mucinex products with guaifenesin as the main active ingredient:

  • Children’s cough tablets with orange cream flavor
  • Children’s without cough and mucus
  • Children’s multi-symptom cold with a very berry flavor
  • Two-layer tablets Extended release DM
  • Double layer Extended Release Tablets
  • Maximum Strength Double Layer Extended Release Tablets
  • Fast-Max Chest Congestion Honey Berry Flavor
  • Fast-Max DM MAX Maximum Strength
  • Fast-Max DM MAX Maximum Strength Honey Berry
  • Fast-Max Maximum Strength Severe nasal congestion and cough

  Most other versions of Mucinex also contain guaifenesin, but as the primary active ingredient use acetaminophen.

  Most common side effects

  Side effects that people may experience when taking Mucinex are usually mild to moderate. Some of the common side effects usually affect three different body systems.

  Digestive system

  Mucinex may cause the following digestive problems:

  • abdominal pain
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea

  9007 0 Nervous system

  Mucinex may also cause:

  • dizziness
  • Headache
  • drowsiness

  Integumentary system (skin)

  Mucinex may occasionally cause rash or urticaria.

  Serious side effects

  In general, if you use guaifenesin or mucinex as directed, you should not have any serious side effects. However, overuse or misuse can cause problems.

  Taking too high a dose may increase the risk of:

  • Headache
  • severe gastrointestinal problems
  • kidney stones

  Mucinex for children

  Only people who at least 12 years of age, must take Mucinex tablets . The FDA has not approved them for children under this age.

  However, children 4 years of age and older can use liquid Mucinex or Mucinex Mini-Melts. Mini-Melts are pellets that you sprinkle on your tongue. These products are specifically labeled for children on the packaging.

  If your child is under 4, talk to your doctor about the best way to treat your cough. The side effects of Mucinex in children are usually the same as in adults.

  Conclusion

  In general, if you use Mucinex as directed, you probably won’t have side effects. If you have them, they are usually light.

  There are some things you can do to help alleviate any unpleasant side effects. For example, if Mucinex is causing stomach upset, try taking it with food or with a glass of milk.

  Use Mucinex only for coughs and chest congestion due to accumulation of mucus. If you have a different type of cough or are unsure what is causing your cough, talk to your doctor before using Mucinex.

  Also, check with your doctor before using Mucinex if you are taking other medications or have a medical condition. They can help you avoid potentially harmful drug interactions.

  Mucinex: uses, side effects, interactions and images of tablets

  • Generic name: guaifenesin

  The display and use of drug information on this site is subject to the express terms of use. By continuing to browse drug information, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Use.

  • RBK00231: This medicine is a blue and white oblong tablet labeled ‘Mucinex’ and ‘1200’.

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  • RBK00230: This medication is a blue and white oblong tablet labeled “Mucinex” and “1200”.

  • RBK00150: This medicine is a liquid.

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  • ADM00572: This medicine is an orange-white oval tablet labeled “Mucinex” and “600”.

  • RBK00721: This medicine is in tablets.

  • RBK00562: This medication is a yellow/white oval tablet labeled ‘Mucinex’ and ‘600’.

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  IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT contain all possible information about this product. This information does not guarantee that this product is safe, effective or suitable for you. This information does not constitute individual medical advice and does not replace the advice of your healthcare professional. Always ask your healthcare professional for complete information about this product and your specific medical needs.

  Guaifenesin is used to treat coughs and nasal congestion caused by colds, bronchitis and other respiratory problems. This product is not generally used for ongoing cough due to smoking or long-term breathing problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema) unless directed by a physician. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion and making breathing easier. If you are self-medicating with this medication, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to make sure it is correct. for you.

  See also Safety Precautions.

  ) Cough and cold remedies have not been shown to be safe or effective for children under 6 years of age. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children under 6 years of age unless directed to do so by a doctor. Some products (eg, extended-release tablets/capsules) are not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information about the safe use of your product. These products do not cure a cold or shorten its duration. To reduce the risk of side effects, carefully follow all dosage instructions. Do not give other cough and cold medicines that may contain the same or similar ingredients.

  See also Drug Interactions.

  Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (eg, drinking plenty of fluids, using a humidifier or saline drops/nasal spray).

  Take this medicine by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 hours. If you are self-medicating, follow all directions on the product packaging. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Guaifenesin may taste bitter. Do not split tablets unless they are notched and your doctor or pharmacist has told you to do so. Swallow the tablet whole or divided without crushing or chewing. If you are using the liquid form of this medicine, carefully measure the dose using a measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. In the case of powder sachets, pour the entire contents of the sachet onto the tongue and swallow. To prevent a bitter taste, do not chew. The dosage depends on your age, medical condition and response to treatment. Do not exceed 6 doses per day. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Fluids will help break up mucus and clear nasal congestion. Tell your doctor if the cough is accompanied by a headache that does not go away, fever, severe sore throat, rash, or if the cough continues, returns, or worsens after 7 days. . This may be a sign of a serious medical problem. Seek immediate medical attention if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

  Nausea or vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately. If your doctor has instructed you to use this medicine, remember that your doctor has concluded that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek medical attention immediately if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, difficulty breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US, call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

  Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to this medicine before taking it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma, smoker’s cough), coughing up blood or a lot of mucus. Liquid forms of this product may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, liver disease, or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of this product. Liquid forms and powder packs of this medicine may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other medical condition that requires you to limit your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), check with your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of this product. Before surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you are taking. use (including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medicine should only be used if absolutely necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether guaifenesin passes into breast milk. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before breastfeeding.

  Drug interactions can change how your medicines work or increase the risk of serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Make a list of all the products you use (including prescription and over-the-counter drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor’s approval. Guaifenesin is available in both prescription and over-the-counter products. Check the labels of all your medications to make sure you are not taking more than one product containing guaifenesin. This product may affect the results of certain laboratory tests (for example, the levels of certain acids in the urine). Make sure lab staff and all your doctors know you are taking this drug.

  If someone overdoses and has severe symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Residents of Canada can call their provincial poison control center.

  If your doctor has prescribed this medicine, do not share this medicine with others. Keep all regular medical and laboratory appointments. This medicine is for temporary use only. Do not take this medicine for more than 7 days unless your doctor tells you to. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts longer than 7 days.

  If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the usual time. Don’t double your dose to catch up.