Is it safe to mix Mucinex and alcohol. What are the potential risks of combining Mucinex with alcoholic drinks. How does alcohol interact with Mucinex ingredients. What should you do if you’ve already mixed Mucinex and alcohol. Why doctors advise against drinking while taking Mucinex.

Understanding Mucinex: Composition and Purpose

Mucinex is a widely used over-the-counter medication designed to alleviate symptoms associated with chest congestion and cough. Its primary active ingredient is guaifenesin, which functions as an expectorant by loosening mucus in the lungs, making it easier for individuals to expel through coughing. Additionally, Mucinex often contains acetaminophen for pain relief and phenylephrine, which acts as a decongestant.

How does guaifenesin work in the body? Guaifenesin increases the volume and reduces the viscosity of bronchial secretions. This action helps to thin the mucus, making it less sticky and easier to cough up. As a result, it provides relief from chest congestion and promotes more productive coughs.

Variations of Mucinex

It’s important to note that there are different formulations of Mucinex available in the market. One notable variation is Mucinex DM, which contains an additional ingredient called dextromethorphan (DXM). DXM is a cough suppressant that works by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger the cough reflex.

• Regular Mucinex: Contains guaifenesin, acetaminophen, and phenylephrine
• Mucinex DM: Contains guaifenesin and dextromethorphan (DXM)

The Dangers of Mixing Mucinex and Alcohol

Combining Mucinex with alcohol is generally considered unsafe by medical professionals. This combination can lead to a range of unwanted side effects and potential health risks. The interaction between the active ingredients in Mucinex and alcohol can amplify the negative effects of both substances.

Why is it risky to mix Mucinex and alcohol? The primary concern stems from the fact that both substances can affect the central nervous system and liver function. Alcohol is a depressant that can slow breathing, cause dizziness, and impair balance. When combined with Mucinex, these effects can be intensified, leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, and potential loss of coordination.

Potential Side Effects of Mixing Mucinex and Alcohol

The combination of Mucinex and alcohol can result in various adverse effects, ranging from mild discomfort to severe health complications. Some of the potential side effects include:

• Extreme drowsiness and dizziness
• Gastrointestinal issues such as stomach upset and ulcers
• Internal bleeding
• Liver damage
• Rapid heart rate
• Increased risk of overdose

Can mixing Mucinex and alcohol cause long-term health problems? While occasional, accidental mixing may not lead to lasting effects, repeated or habitual combination of these substances can potentially cause chronic liver damage, especially due to the acetaminophen content in Mucinex. The liver is responsible for metabolizing both alcohol and acetaminophen, and the combination can overburden this vital organ, leading to inflammation and potential long-term damage.

Specific Risks Associated with Mucinex DM and Alcohol

Mucinex DM, which contains dextromethorphan (DXM), poses additional risks when combined with alcohol. DXM is a cough suppressant that can have psychoactive effects in higher doses. When mixed with alcohol, the risks associated with DXM increase significantly.

How does alcohol interact with DXM in Mucinex DM? Both alcohol and DXM have depressant effects on the central nervous system. When combined, they can potentiate each other’s effects, leading to increased sedation, impaired motor function, and altered perception. This combination can be particularly dangerous as it may lead to respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, or even life-threatening situations.

Risks of DXM Misuse

It’s crucial to address the potential for DXM misuse, as some individuals may attempt to use Mucinex DM recreationally due to its psychoactive properties in high doses. Combining DXM misuse with alcohol consumption can lead to severe consequences, including:

• Coma
• Rapid heart rate and increased blood pressure
• Psychosis
• Seizures
• Slowed breathing

Is there a safe amount of DXM to consume with alcohol? There is no safe amount of DXM to consume with alcohol. Any combination of these substances increases the risk of adverse effects and should be strictly avoided. If you or someone you know is struggling with DXM misuse, it’s essential to seek professional help immediately.

Increased Risk of Intoxication and Accidents

One of the most immediate dangers of mixing Mucinex and alcohol is the increased risk of intoxication and accidents. Both substances can cause drowsiness and dizziness on their own, and when combined, these effects are amplified significantly.

How does the combination of Mucinex and alcohol affect coordination and judgment? The synergistic effect of these substances can lead to severely impaired motor skills, balance, and cognitive function. This impairment increases the likelihood of accidents, falls, and potentially dangerous situations, such as operating machinery or driving a vehicle.

Enhanced Intoxication Effects

The combination of Mucinex and alcohol can lead to a state of enhanced intoxication, where the effects of alcohol are felt more intensely. This can result in:

• Increased feelings of dizziness and disorientation
• More pronounced loss of coordination
• Heightened risk of blackouts or memory loss
• Intensified sedation and drowsiness

Can the combination of Mucinex and alcohol affect reaction times? Yes, the combination can significantly slow reaction times, making it dangerous to engage in activities that require quick reflexes or decision-making. This impairment can last longer than the effects of alcohol alone, potentially catching individuals off guard if they believe the intoxication has worn off.

Impact on Liver Function and Health

The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing both alcohol and the ingredients in Mucinex, particularly acetaminophen. When these substances are combined, it can place excessive stress on the liver, potentially leading to serious health complications.

How does the combination of Mucinex and alcohol affect the liver? The liver prioritizes the metabolism of alcohol over other substances. When alcohol is present, it slows down the liver’s ability to process acetaminophen, which can lead to a buildup of toxic byproducts. This accumulation can cause inflammation and damage to liver cells, potentially resulting in acute liver failure in severe cases.

Long-term Liver Concerns

While occasional, accidental mixing may not cause immediate severe damage, repeated or habitual combination of Mucinex and alcohol can lead to chronic liver issues. These may include:

• Fatty liver disease
• Alcoholic hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Increased risk of liver cancer

Is there a safe amount of alcohol to consume while taking Mucinex? While the drug label advises against consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while taking Mucinex, medical professionals generally recommend avoiding alcohol entirely when using this medication. The safest approach is to abstain from alcohol consumption during the course of Mucinex treatment.

Gastrointestinal Complications and Risks

The combination of Mucinex and alcohol can have significant impacts on the gastrointestinal system. Both substances can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of various digestive issues.

How does alcohol exacerbate the gastrointestinal side effects of Mucinex? Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, potentially intensifying the GI symptoms associated with Mucinex use. This combination can lead to increased instances and severity of:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Diarrhea
• Stomach ulcers
• Internal bleeding

Can the combination of Mucinex and alcohol increase the risk of stomach ulcers? Yes, this combination can significantly increase the risk of developing stomach ulcers. Alcohol can erode the protective lining of the stomach, while acetaminophen in Mucinex can interfere with the stomach’s natural healing processes. Together, they create an environment conducive to ulcer formation and can exacerbate existing ulcers.

Long-term Gastrointestinal Concerns

Chronic mixing of Mucinex and alcohol can lead to more severe, long-term gastrointestinal issues, including:

• Chronic gastritis
• Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
• Malabsorption of nutrients
• Heightened risk of gastrointestinal cancers

What to Do If You’ve Already Mixed Mucinex and Alcohol

If you’ve inadvertently consumed alcohol while taking Mucinex, it’s important to take appropriate steps to minimize potential risks. While a single drink may not pose significant dangers, it’s crucial to be aware of any unusual symptoms and take precautionary measures.

What should you do if you’ve accidentally mixed Mucinex and alcohol? If you realize you’ve consumed alcohol while taking Mucinex, follow these steps:

1. Stop drinking immediately to prevent further interactions.
2. Drink plenty of water to help flush out your system.
3. Avoid any activities that require concentration or coordination, such as driving.
4. Monitor yourself for any unusual symptoms or side effects.
5. If you experience severe symptoms or are concerned, contact a healthcare provider or seek medical attention.

Should you induce vomiting after mixing Mucinex and alcohol? No, you should not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by a medical professional. Inducing vomiting can potentially cause more harm and doesn’t effectively remove the substances from your bloodstream. Instead, focus on staying hydrated and monitoring your symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While minor accidental mixing may not require immediate medical intervention, there are situations where professional help should be sought. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe dizziness or loss of consciousness
• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Severe abdominal pain
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling or rash
• Confusion or disorientation

Is it necessary to inform your doctor about accidentally mixing Mucinex and alcohol? Yes, it’s advisable to inform your healthcare provider about any accidental mixing of medications and alcohol, even if you don’t experience immediate severe symptoms. This information can help your doctor provide appropriate care and advice, especially if you’re taking Mucinex as part of a larger treatment plan.

Safe Alternatives and Best Practices

Given the risks associated with mixing Mucinex and alcohol, it’s important to consider safe alternatives and adopt best practices when using this medication. Prioritizing your health and following medical advice can help ensure effective treatment without unnecessary complications.

What are some safe alternatives to drinking alcohol while taking Mucinex? If you’re taking Mucinex and feel the urge to drink, consider these alcohol-free alternatives:

• Herbal teas, which can also help soothe congestion
• Sparkling water with fruit for a refreshing, celebratory feel
• Mocktails or non-alcoholic versions of your favorite drinks
• Fresh fruit juices or smoothies for a vitamin boost
• Kombucha or other probiotic drinks for gut health

How long should you wait after taking Mucinex before consuming alcohol? It’s generally recommended to wait until you’ve completed your course of Mucinex and are no longer experiencing symptoms before consuming alcohol. If you must drink, wait at least 4-6 hours after your last dose of Mucinex, keeping in mind that even then, there may still be some risk of interaction.

Best Practices for Taking Mucinex

To ensure the safe and effective use of Mucinex, follow these best practices:

1. Always read and follow the dosage instructions on the label.
2. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
3. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water while taking Mucinex.
4. Avoid alcohol completely during your course of treatment.
5. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult with a healthcare professional.
6. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking.
7. Store Mucinex in a cool, dry place out of reach of children.

Can you take Mucinex long-term? Mucinex is generally intended for short-term use to alleviate temporary symptoms. If you find yourself needing to use Mucinex frequently or for extended periods, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms and determine if there’s an underlying condition that needs addressing or if alternative treatments might be more appropriate for long-term management.

Mucinex and alcohol: Safety, risks, and more

Mixing alcohol and Mucinex can cause unwanted side effects, and doctors generally consider it unsafe. Mixing the two can cause rapid heart rate, liver damage, and more.

Mucinex is a type of medication that contains guaifenesin. Guaifenesin helps loosen mucus from the lungs so that they can bring up the mucus more effectively when a person coughs.

Alcohol is a depressant that can slow a person’s breathing, cause dizziness, and affect their balance. It can also interfere with other medications, including Mucinex.

This article explains the risks of mixing alcohol and Mucinex, safety, possible side effects, and more.

Mucinex is a medication that contains guaifenesin and acetaminophen, along with phenylephrine.

Guaifenesin is a drug that treats the symptoms of chest congestion and cough.

Acetaminophen is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that can relieve mild to moderate pain. Manufacturers sometimes combine it with other medications for the treatment of colds, flu, and other viral infections.

Mixing alcohol with Mucinex and its ingredients — guaifenesin and acetaminophen — can cause:

• drowsiness
• dizziness
• stomach upset
• stomach ulcers
• internal bleeding
• liver damage
• rapid heart rate
• increased risk of overdose

There is another version of Mucinex called Mucinex DM. It contains dextromethorphan (DXM), a substance that helps suppress the urge to cough. Mixing alcohol with DXM increases the risk of overdose.

Therefore, it is generally not safe to mix Mucinex and alcohol.

Is it OK to have 1 or 2 drinks?

The drug label states that people should avoid drinking three or more alcoholic drinks daily while taking Mucinex.

However, the alcohol content of drinks can vary. Mixing any amount of alcohol with acetaminophen increases the risk of unwanted side effects and complications.

The safest option is to avoid alcohol entirely while taking Mucinex.

What to do if you’ve already had a drink

In some cases, a person may have already taken Mucinex before having an alcoholic beverage, forgetting that they should not mix the two.

One standard drink should not pose any significant risks. However, it is best for a person to stop drinking once they realize their mistake. This is because any more than three alcoholic drinks can pose a risk of side effects.

Any amount of alcohol could increase the side effects of Mucinex, such as dizziness and nausea. If a person experiences enhanced side effects that worry them, they should contact a doctor.

Learn more

Learn more about acetaminophen, alcohol, and other substances:

• Is it safe to mix acetaminophen and alcohol?
• Acetaminophen and ibuprofen
• Acetaminophen: Is it as safe as we think?

There are a number of risks and side effects a person may experience if they drink alcohol while taking Mucinex.

Increased side effects

Drinking alcohol while taking Mucinex can increase the existing side effects of both Mucinex and the alcohol itself.

People can experience heightened Mucinex side effects when consuming alcohol. Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, heightening the GI symptoms that medical professionals associate with Mucinex.

Some potential side effects that alcohol may worsen include:

• dizziness
• drowsiness
• nausea
• diarrhea
• headache
• abdominal pain
• vomiting

Increased intoxication

Consuming alcohol while taking Mucinex can lead to increased intoxication.

This is because some of the side effects of Mucinex can amplify the intoxicating effects of alcohol, such as drowsiness and dizziness.

Additionally, in regard to Mucinex DM, the combination of DXM and alcohol can have dangerous consequences.

Both DXM and alcohol can have depressant effects on the brain. They dull a person’s senses and slow down their coordination and judgment.

Risk of accidents

Both alcohol and Mucinex can cause drowsiness.

Taking both of them together can amplify these effects and cause people to become more drowsy or dizzy.

This can lead to injury because a person is more likely to trip or fall over.

Risk of overdose

Some of the ingredients in Mucinex and Mucinex DM, such as guaifenesin and DXM, increase the risk of overdose when mixed with alcohol.

An overdose is when a person takes too much of a substance that their body cannot safely handle. This can lead to serious symptoms. In some cases, overdosing can be fatal.

A similar product to Mucinex, Mucinex DM, contains DXM, an OTC cough suppressant.

People can misuse DXM because it can cause euphoria and other psychedelic symptoms. However, using any medical substance to get “high” or for anything other than its intended purpose can be dangerous.

The risks of DXM misuse increase when a person also uses alcohol. Mixing alcohol with large amounts of DXM can be life threatening.

Taking DXM in high doses can cause DXM poisoning, which can cause:

• coma
• fast heart rate
• increased blood pressure
• psychosis
• seizures
• slow breathing
• death

Mixing alcohol with DXM makes these risks more likely, as it increases the risk of overdose.

Seeking help for addiction may seem daunting or even scary, but several organizations can provide support. If you believe that you or someone close to you is showing signs of addiction, you can contact the following organizations for immediate help and advice:

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): 800-662-4357 (TTY: 800-487-4889)
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

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Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition that describes when a person continues using alcohol despite adverse effects on their health and other aspects of their life. More than 14 million U.S. adults have AUD.

A person with AUD may not be able to abstain from drinking, even while taking OTC medication that they should not mix with alcohol.

If a person has AUD, help is available. A person can contact a doctor about how to treat and manage AUD. They may suggest:

• Medical treatments: These may include medication to manage cravings, withdrawal, and coexisting mental health conditions.
• Therapy: Methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychotherapy can help a person address the underlying causes of AUD.
• Support groups: Joining Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and other peer-led support groups can give a person a space to share their experiences with others who understand.

Some organizations that can help people living with AUD include:

• SMART Recovery
• Al-Anon
• SAMHSA

Learn more

Help is available for people who misuse alcohol and other substances. Learn more here:

• What is alcohol use disorder, and what is the treatment?
• How can you help a person with alcohol use disorder?
• What is addiction?

Alcohol has a negative impact on the immune system. If someone is feeling under the weather already, it is recommended they avoid alcohol.

The immune system is the body’s natural defense against infection. It comprises a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body from germs.

Alcohol can affect the immune system in many ways. Alcohol interferes with the production of white blood cells and slows down their ability to fight off illness or infection.

In addition, alcohol can cause inflammation throughout the body, which can further weaken immunity.

People should seek medical attention if they experience the following:

• a fever that gets worse or lasts more than 3 days
• cough returning or occurring with a rash or headache
• dizziness
• nervousness
• new symptoms
• pain, nasal congestion, or a cough getting worse or lasting more than 7 days
• redness or swelling
• sleeplessness

People are advised to talk with a doctor if they think they will not be able to abstain from alcohol while taking Mucinex. This may be a sign of AUD, and a doctor can offer treatment.

Although some people may feel fine after having one or two drinks while taking Mucinex, it is best to avoid combining the two.

If a person has one or two drinks and has minor side effects, such as increased dizziness or nausea, these effects typically go away within a few hours, once the effects of the alcohol wear off.

However, more serious symptoms, such as an overdose resulting from heavy alcohol use and Mucinex, may mean a person requires immediate medical assistance.

Overdoses resulting from alcohol and drug misuse can be fatal.

Mucinex is a medication that healthcare professionals use to treat congestion and other symptoms caused by the common cold and flu.

It contains guaifenesin, an expectorant. Some variations also contain dextromethorphan (DXM), a cough suppressant.

The most common side effect of Mucinex is drowsiness. Combining it with alcohol can increase its side effects. This can lead to dangerous health issues, such as liver damage, rapid heart rate, and an increased risk of overdose.

Alcohol and Mucinex – Side Effects of Mixing Alcohol and Mucinex

Alcohol can cause several types of side effects, including dangerous or life-threatening symptoms, when mixed with medications.

One medication that is sometimes used at the same time as alcohol is Mucinex. Despite being an over-the-counter medication, combining Mucinex and alcohol can lead to hazardous side effects.

Article at a Glance:

Mixing alcohol and Mucinex can be dangerous or harmful. Some of the key points about mixing the two to keep in mind are:

Mucinex is an over-the-counter medication that comes in different varieties for different purposes

Mucinex primarily contains guaifenesin and dextromethorphan

Alcohol mixed with Mucinex can have unintended side effects, and result in serious injuries

Because Mucinex can make people drowsy, the alcohol making people uncoordinated only adds to the risk of sustaining an injury

Mucinex and Alcohol

Alcohol can cause several types of side effects, including dangerous or life-threatening symptoms, when mixed with medications. One medication that is sometimes used at the same time as alcohol is Mucinex.

The brand name Mucinex includes several over-the-counter medications with slightly different names such as Mucinex, Mucinex DM, Mucinex Fast-Max and Mucinex Sinus-Max. Each of these variations includes a combination of medications designed to help with coughs, congestion and cold symptoms. The main ingredients that are consistent throughout Mucinex medications are guaifenesin and dextromethorphan. Both of these ingredients help with coughing or congestion.

Side Effects of Mixing Mucinex and Alcohol

Mixing alcohol and Mucinex can cause many possible side effects, some of which can be dangerous. These side effects include:

• Increased side effects of the medications
• Increased intoxication
• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Negative interactions with other medications

Increased Side Effects

Mixing alcohol and Mucinex can intensify the side effects of Mucinex. Most people don’t experience any significant side effects from taking Mucinex. When you drink alcohol with Mucinex, people who do experience side effects will likely feel those side effects intensify. People who do not experience side effects when taking Mucinex may find that they start to develop side effects when Mucinex is mixed with alcohol.

Increased Intoxication

Taking Mucinex and alcohol at the same time may lead to increased intoxication. When the body tries to metabolize two substances instead of one, it slows down, which can lead to longer and stronger alcoholic effects. The heightened intoxication may lead to an increased risk of injury and an underestimation of the effects of alcohol. This side effect can be particularly dangerous when driving or doing tasks that require concentration.

Dizziness and Drowsiness

When alcohol and Mucinex are mixed, it can increase a person’s dizziness and drowsiness. A person experienced an increased risk of sustaining an injury when these side effects occur alongside the increased intoxication. Something as mundane as riding a bicycle could become dangerous or even deadly when Mucinex and alcohol are combined.

Side Effects of Consuming Alcohol on Other Mucinex Variations

While Mucinex primarily contains the active ingredients guaifenesin and dextromethorphan, most variations of Mucinex contain other medications designed to help with a variety of symptoms. These additional medications may also mix with alcohol in unanticipated ways that could be dangerous.

Mixing Alcohol and Mucinex FastMax

Mucinex FastMax is an over-the-counter drug that has multiple ingredients. FastMax is a line of products that contain at least three of the following ingredients:

• Acetaminophen, a pain reliever
• Dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant
• Guaifenesin, a mucolytic, which breaks up mucus
• Phenylephrine, a decongestant

Out of these ingredients, both acetaminophen and dextromethorphan have safety concerns when used with alcohol.

Mixing acetaminophen with alcohol can increase your risk of liver problems, so it is best to avoid combining them. Contact your doctor immediately if you take these substances together and notice side effects that may indicate liver damage:

• Fever
• Chills
• Joint pain or swelling
• Excessive fatigue or weakness
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Itchy skin or a rash
• Appetite loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

Mixing alcohol with dextromethorphan can increase the risk of other side effects, like:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Impaired thinking or judgment

Mixing Alcohol and Mucinex D

Mucinex D contains a mucolytic, guaifenesin, and a decongestant, pseudoephedrine. This combination does not have any known drug interactions with alcohol.

Mixing Alcohol and Mucinex DM

Mucinex DM typically contains only two active ingredients, guaifenesin and dextromethorphan. While guaifenesin does not have any drug interactions with alcohol, mixing dextromethorphan and alcohol can increase the risk of central nervous system side effects:

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Problems with thinking or judgment

If you or a loved one struggle with alcohol use disorder, or are mixing alcohol with other substances, you should consider seeking professional help. The Recovery Village has a proven record of treating alcohol abuse and addiction. Reach out to a representative today to see how we can help you start on the path to full recovery.

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Editor – Thomas Christiansen

With over a decade of content experience, Tom produces and edits research articles, news and blog posts produced for Advanced Recovery Systems. Read more

Medically Reviewed By – Benjamin Caleb Williams, RN

Benjamin Caleb Williams is a board-certified Emergency Nurse with several years of clinical experience, including supervisory roles within the ICU and ER settings. Read more

NIH. “Harmful Interactions.” 2014. Accessed April 10, 2019.

Medscape. “Guaifenesin (OTC).” June 2018. Accessed April 10, 2019.

Medscape. “Dextromethorphan (OTC).” 2019. Accessed April 10, 2019.

Mucinex Professional. “Drug Facts.” 2019. Accessed April 15, 2019.

Drugs.com. “Drug Interaction Report: Alcohol and Muc[…]nd Mucinex DM.” Accessed February 21, 2022.

Drugs.com. “Drug Interaction Report: Alcohol and Muc[…]and Mucinex D.” Accessed February 21, 2022.

Drugs.com. “Drug Interaction Report: Alcohol and Muc[…]old & Flu.” Accessed February 21, 2022.

Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

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.

  Cough syrup and alcohol. Can you drink if you are taking cough syrup? – Health Education

  Home >> Health Education >> Can you drink alcohol while taking cough syrup?

  Health education: confusion

  A cough can be anything from mild irritation to severe distress that keeps you awake. all hours of the night. When you have a cold with a bothersome cough, you can get hold of a bottle of over-the-counter cough syrup. If you have gone to the doctor about your illness, he may even prescribe a stronger cough medicine.

  So what if you want to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or a beer during a football match? Can you mix cough syrup and alcohol?

  Unfortunately, alcohol and cough syrup must not be mixed. The combination of cough syrup and alcohol may cause increased dizziness and drowsiness, as well as impaired coordination and driving. Some cough medicines also contain alcohol, so the effects can be even more severe. Keep reading to learn more about the interactions between common cough syrups and alcohol.

  Common cough syrups and their ingredients

  First, let’s break down some of the more common OTC and prescription drugs. cough medicines and cough-relieving ingredients.

  OTC:

  • Robitussin DM , Tussin D.M. (contains guaifenesin, an expectorant, and dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant)
  • Delsym (contains dextromethorphan)
  • NyQuil Syrup (contains dextromethorphan and several other ingredients)
  • DayQuil Syrup (contains dextromethorphan and several other ingredients)
  • Mucinex-DM liquid (contains guaifenesin and dextromethorphan )
  • Note: Many other cough and cold preparations (in tablet or syrup form) also contain dextromethorphan, such as NyQuil Liquicaps, DayQuil Liquicaps, Robitussin cough gels, and Mucinex-DM tablets .

  Recipe:

  • Phenergan DM (contains promethazine and dextromethorphan)
  • Phenergan with codeine (contains promethazine and codeine)
  • Robitussin AC (contains guaifenesin and codeine)
  • Tussionex (contains chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone)

  As you can see above, the most common cough ingredients are: dextromethorphan and codeine.

  Can I mix dextromethorphan and alcohol?

  What happens if you take an over-the-counter or prescription cough medicine that contains the cough medicine dextromethorphan – can this Robitussin-DM and alcohol be mixed? Or Delsym and alcohol? Or any other product containing dextromethorphan with alcohol?

  No. While you can easily find over-the-counter drugs containing dextromethorphan, these drugs can be very dangerous when mixed with alcohol.

  Why is that? Well, dextromethorphan and alcohol are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, which means they cause relaxation, drowsiness, and feelings of euphoria. Dextromethorphan itself is a drug of abuse. And mixing dextromethorphan and alcohol causes additional side effects that can increase the risk of overdose. Some of the effects this combination can cause include:

  • Respiratory depression (slow breathing)
  • Feeling out of body
  • Brain lesions that can cause problems with memory and behavior
  • Epilepsy
  • Permanent psychosis

  What about guaifenesin?

  Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps loosen mucus. Many people use this medicine to get rid of a weeping cough. Guaifenesin is found in over-the-counter products such as Mucinex or regular Robitussin (not Mucinex-DM or Robitussin-DM – ​​DM stands for dextromethorphan in these products). Some prescription products, such as Robitussin with Codeine, also contain guaifenesin.

  Although guaifenesin does not technically interact with alcohol, it is best not to drink alcohol when you are sick. Alcohol can aggravate the symptoms of the disease (and the side effects of medications). Alcohol can also cause dehydration and weaken the immune system.

  Can I mix codeine cough syrup and alcohol?

  Let’s say your cough is so bad that you missed an over-the-counter pass and went straight to a doctor who prescribed you a cough syrup containing hydrocodone or codeine. Can I mix hydrocodone or codeine cough syrup and alcohol?

  Narcotic drugs such as hydrocodone or codeine carry a black box warning, which is the most stringent warning required by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These drugs have a high potential for abuse and addiction when taken alone, leading to overdose and death. Narcotic cough syrups: Controlled substances and should be selectively administered to carefully evaluated adults when the benefits outweigh the risks. These cough syrups containing codeine can also cause severe, life-threatening or fatal respiratory depression when taken alone.

  Now add alcohol? That’s a big ‘no’. The manufacturers of these cough syrups warn (also in a black box warning) that combining opioids such as codeine or hydrocodone with alcohol can cause deep sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. A cough syrup containing hydrocodone or codeine plus alcohol is a recipe for disaster.

  In addition, some over-the-counter and prescription cough medicines contain small amounts of alcohol in addition to cough suppressant ingredients. So now you have to combine all the effects of the drug with alcohol and more alcohol.

  Which cough syrups contain alcohol?

  This chart, produced by the Medical Society of the State of New York, provides a comprehensive list of drugs that contain alcohol and drugs that do not contain alcohol.

  Some common cough syrups containing alcohol include, but are not limited to, some formulations of NyQuil, ZzzQuil, and other nightly cough or cough/cold syrups.

  Which cough syrups do not contain alcohol?

  Better yet, opt for an alcohol-free formulation. Most pharmacies stock several types of cough syrups that do not contain alcohol, such as non-alcoholic syrups. Tussin-DM or Safe-Tussin DM. If you do not want to drink alcohol in a glass of and your medicine, choose one of these options.
  However, because formulations can change over the years, when choosing an over-the-counter cough medicine, it’s wise to check with the pharmacist on the label to make sure the product is free of alcohol.

  If I drink alcohol, what should I take for a cough?

  Bad news: It is best to abstain from alcohol for a few days until you feel better. Most cough medicines and alcohol can interact with each other, and some interactions can be fatal.