How does Mucinex DM work to relieve coughs and congestion. What are the active ingredients in Mucinex DM. How long does Mucinex DM last. What are the potential side effects of Mucinex DM. Who should not take Mucinex DM.

Understanding Mucinex DM: A Dual-Action Cough Remedy

Mucinex DM is a popular over-the-counter medication designed to provide relief from coughs and chest congestion. This powerful combination drug contains two active ingredients that work together to address multiple symptoms:

• Dextromethorphan HBr (30 mg) – A cough suppressant
• Guaifenesin (600 mg) – An expectorant

By combining these two components, Mucinex DM offers a comprehensive approach to managing respiratory discomfort. But how exactly does it work? And what should consumers know before using this medication?

The Science Behind Mucinex DM’s Effectiveness

To understand why Mucinex DM is so effective, it’s important to examine the roles of its active ingredients:

Dextromethorphan HBr: Quieting the Cough Reflex

Dextromethorphan HBr is a cough suppressant that works by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger the cough reflex. It helps to reduce the urge to cough, providing relief from both dry and productive coughs.

Guaifenesin: Breaking Down Mucus

Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps loosen phlegm and thin bronchial secretions. This action makes coughs more productive by facilitating the removal of mucus from the airways, ultimately leading to clearer breathing.

The combination of these two ingredients allows Mucinex DM to address both the symptoms and underlying causes of coughs and congestion.

Key Benefits of Mucinex DM for Respiratory Relief

Mucinex DM offers several advantages for those suffering from coughs and congestion:

• Extended relief: The medication provides up to 12 hours of symptom control
• Dual-action formula: It both suppresses coughs and helps clear mucus
• Convenient dosing: Typically taken every 12 hours, reducing the need for frequent doses
• Non-drowsy formula: Allows users to maintain daily activities without excessive sedation

These benefits make Mucinex DM a popular choice for adults seeking effective cough and congestion relief.

Proper Usage and Dosage Guidelines for Mucinex DM

To ensure safe and effective use of Mucinex DM, it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage guidelines:

1. Adults and children 12 years and older: Take 1 tablet every 12 hours, not to exceed 2 tablets in 24 hours
2. Children under 12 years: Consult a doctor before use
3. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets – swallow whole with a full glass of water
4. Do not exceed the recommended dosage

Always read the package label carefully and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about using Mucinex DM.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While Mucinex DM is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Stomach discomfort

More serious side effects, though rare, can occur. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe dizziness or drowsiness
• Confusion or unusual behavior
• Severe stomach pain
• Difficulty urinating

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid using Mucinex DM, including:

• Those with a persistent cough due to asthma, smoking, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis
• Individuals with a cough producing excessive phlegm
• People taking MAO inhibitors or who have taken them in the past two weeks
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (consult a doctor before use)

Drug Interactions: What to Watch Out For

Mucinex DM can interact with various medications and substances. Some key interactions to be aware of include:

• MAO inhibitors: Can cause dangerous interactions with dextromethorphan
• Alcohol: May increase drowsiness and dizziness
• Other cough and cold medications: Avoid using multiple products with similar ingredients
• Certain antidepressants: May enhance the effects of dextromethorphan

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking before using Mucinex DM.

Comparing Mucinex DM to Other Cough Remedies

How does Mucinex DM stack up against other cough and cold medications? Here’s a brief comparison:

• Mucinex DM vs. Regular Mucinex: Mucinex DM contains dextromethorphan for cough suppression, while regular Mucinex only contains guaifenesin
• Mucinex DM vs. Robitussin DM: Both contain similar active ingredients, but Mucinex DM offers extended-release formulation
• Mucinex DM vs. Delsym: Delsym focuses solely on cough suppression, while Mucinex DM also addresses mucus

The choice between these medications depends on individual symptoms and needs. Consult with a pharmacist or healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific situation.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While Mucinex DM can effectively manage many cough and congestion symptoms, there are times when professional medical care is necessary. Seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms persist for more than 7 days or worsen
• You develop a fever, rash, or persistent headache
• Your cough is accompanied by severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
• You cough up blood or have a high fever

These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires medical evaluation and treatment.

In conclusion, Mucinex DM offers a potent combination of cough suppression and mucus relief in a convenient, extended-release formulation. By understanding its proper use, potential side effects, and limitations, consumers can make informed decisions about managing their respiratory symptoms effectively. As with any medication, it’s essential to use Mucinex DM responsibly and consult with healthcare professionals when necessary to ensure optimal health outcomes.

Dextromethorphan and Mucinex Interactions – Drugs.com

This report displays the potential drug interactions for the following 2 drugs:

• dextromethorphan
• Mucinex (guaifenesin)

Edit list (add/remove drugs)

• Consumer
• Professional

Interactions between your drugs

No interactions were found between dextromethorphan and Mucinex. However, this does not necessarily mean no interactions exist. Always consult your healthcare provider.

dextromethorphan

A total of
329 drugs
are known to interact with
dextromethorphan.

• Dextromethorphan is in the drug class
  antitussives.
• Dextromethorphan is used to treat
  Cough.

Mucinex

A total of
0 drugs
are known to interact with
Mucinex.

• Mucinex is in the drug class
  expectorants.
• Mucinex is used to treat the following conditions:
  • Bronchiectasis
  • Bronchitis
  • Cough

Drug and food interactions

Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of CNS-active agents. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.

MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving CNS-active agents should be warned of this interaction and advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to avoid hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination until they know how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience excessive or prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.

References

1. Warrington SJ, Ankier SI, Turner P “Evaluation of possible interactions between ethanol and trazodone or amitriptyline.” Neuropsychobiology 15
   (1986): 31-7
2. Gilman AG, eds., Nies AS, Rall TW, Taylor P “Goodman and Gilman’s the Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. ” New York, NY: Pergamon Press Inc.
   (1990):
3. “Product Information. Fycompa (perampanel).” Eisai Inc
   (2012):
4. “Product Information. Rexulti (brexpiprazole).” Otsuka American Pharmaceuticals Inc
   (2015):

View all 4 references

Therapeutic duplication warnings

No warnings were found for your selected drugs.

Therapeutic duplication warnings are only returned when drugs within the same group exceed the recommended therapeutic duplication maximum.

See also

• Dextromethorphan drug interactions
• Dextromethorphan uses and side effects
• Mucinex drug interactions
• Mucinex uses and side effects
• Drug Interactions Checker

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Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.

Major	Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate	Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor	Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown	No interaction information available.

Further information

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

Medical Disclaimer

Mucinex DM: Package Insert – Drugs.com

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Package insert / product label
Generic name: guaifenesin and dextromethorphan hydrobromide
Dosage form: tablet, extended release
Drug class: Upper respiratory combinations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 22, 2023.

On This Page

• Indications and Usage
• Warnings
• Dosage and Administration

Drug Facts

Uses

• helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to rid the bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus and make coughs more productive
• temporarily relieves:
  • cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation as may occur with the common cold or inhaled irritants
  • the intensity of coughing
  • the impulse to cough to help you get to sleep

Warnings

Do not use

• for children under 12 years of age
• if you are now taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (certain drugs for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease), or for 2 weeks after stopping the MAOI drug. If you do not know if your prescription drug contains an MAOI, ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.

Ask a doctor before use if you have

• persistent or chronic cough such as occurs with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema
• cough accompanied by too much phlegm (mucus)

When using this product

• do not use more than directed

Stop use and ask a doctor if

• cough lasts more than 7 days, comes back, or occurs with fever, rash, or persistent headache. These could be signs of a serious illness.

If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use.

Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Directions

• do not crush, chew, or break tablet
• take with a full glass of water
• this product can be administered without regard for timing of meals
• adults and children 12 years and older: 1 or 2 tablets every 12 hours; not more than 4 tablets in 24 hours
• children under 12 years of age: do not use

Other information

• store at 20-25°C (68-77°F)

Inactive ingredients

carbomer homopolymer type B; D&C yellow #10 aluminum lake; hypromellose, USP; magnesium stearate, NF; microcrystalline cellulose, NF; sodium starch glycolate, NF

Questions?

1-866-MUCINEX (1-866-682-4639)

You may also report side effects to this phone number.

Dist. by: RB Health (US)
Parsippany, NJ 07054-0224

Made in England

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL – 20 Tablet Blister Pack Carton

NDC 63824-056-32

Mucinex®DM

600 mg guaifenesin & 30 mg dextromethorphan HBr
extended-release bi-layer tablets

EXPECTORANT & COUGH SUPPRESSANT

12
HOUR®

✓

Controls Cough

✓

Thins and Loosens Mucus

✓

Immediate and Extended Release

20
EXTENDED-RELEASE
BI-LAYER TABLETS

Mucinex DM guaifenesin and dextromethorphan hydrobromide tablet, extended release

Product Information Product Type HUMAN OTC DRUG Item Code (Source) NDC:63824-056 Route of Administration ORAL DEA Schedule

Active Ingredient/Active Moiety Ingredient Name Basis of Strength Strength Guaifenesin (Guaifenesin) Guaifenesin 600 mg Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (Dextromethorphan) Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 30 mg

Inactive Ingredients Ingredient Name Strength Carbomer Homopolymer Type B (Allyl Pentaerythritol Crosslinked) D&C yellow no. 10 aluminum oxide HYPROMELLOSE, UNSPECIFIED magnesium stearate MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE

Product Characteristics Color WHITE (yellow and white) Score no score Shape OVAL Size 16mm Flavor Imprint Code Mucinex;600 Contains

Packaging # Item Code Package Description 1 NDC:63824-056-89 4 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON 1 17 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK 2 NDC:63824-056-36 1 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON 2 6 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK 3 NDC:63824-056-32 1 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON 3 20 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK 4 NDC:63824-056-34 2 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON 4 20 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK 5 NDC:63824-056-69 3 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON 5 20 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK 6 NDC:63824-056-74 24 POUCH in 1 CARTON 6 NDC:63824-056-73 2 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 POUCH 7 NDC:63824-056-72 2 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 POUCH 8 NDC:63824-056-11 2 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON 8 12 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK 9 NDC:63824-056-01 5 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON 9 20 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK 10 NDC:63824-056-50 500 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE

Marketing Information Marketing Category Application Number or Monograph Citation Marketing Start Date Marketing End Date NDA NDA021620 06/26/2012

RB Health (US) LLC

Frequently asked questions

• Does Mucinex help you get pregnant?
• I have high blood pressure. Can I take Mucinex DM safely?
• Can I take Claritin with Mucinex DM?

View more FAQ

More about Mucinex DM (dextromethorphan / guaifenesin)

• Check interactions
• Compare alternatives
• Pricing & coupons
• Reviews (21)
• Drug images
• Side effects
• Dosage information
• During pregnancy
• Support group
• Drug class: upper respiratory combinations
• En español

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• Drug Information

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• Prescribing Information

Other brands

Tussin DM, Biocotron, HT Tuss DM

Other formulations

• Mucinex

Related treatment guides

• Cough
• Expectoration

Medical Disclaimer

mucinex: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Images of Tablets

• Generic Name: Dextromethorphan-Guaifenesin

The display and use of drug information on this site is subject to the express terms of use. By continuing to view 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.
• ADM00081: This medicine is an oval-shaped blue and white tablet labeled “Mucinex” and “600”.
• RBK00230: This medicine is a white/blue oblong tablet labeled “Mucinex” and “1200”.
• ADM00080: This medicine is a white and blue round tablet labeled “A” and “600”.
• RBK00150: This medicine is a liquid.
• ABC00254: This medicine is an orange-white oval shaped tablet labeled “Mucinex” and “1200”.
• ABC12345: This medicine is a round tablet.
• ADM00572: This medicine is an orange-white oval shaped tablet labeled “Mucinex” and “600”.
• RBK00562: This medicine is an oval-shaped yellow-white tablet labeled “Mucinex” and “600”.
• RBK00721: This medicine is a tablet.
• RBK00720: This medicine is a tablet.
• RBK00561: This medicine is an oval-shaped yellow-white tablet labeled “Mucinex” and “600”.
• RBK00140: This medicine is a liquid.
• RBK05260: This medicine is a liquid.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT contain all information possible 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.

This combination medicine is used to relieve coughs caused by colds, bronchitis and other respiratory problems. Guaifenesin belongs to the class of expectorants. It works by loosening and thinning mucus in the airways, clearing nasal congestion and making breathing easier. Dextromethorphan belongs to a class of drugs known as cough suppressants. It acts on a part of the brain (cough center) to reduce the urge to cough. If you are self-medicating with this medicine, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to make sure it is the right one. for you.

See also Precautions section.

Cough products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children under 6 years of age. This product (sustained release) is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age unless otherwise noted. For more information about the safe use of the product, ask your doctor or pharmacist. These products do not cure or shorten the duration of a cold and can cause serious side effects. To reduce the risk of serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage instructions. Do not use this product to induce sleep in a child. Do not give other cough medicines that may contain the same or similar ingredients.

See also Drug Interactions section.

side effects of garcinia cambogia

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 12 hours with a full glass of water. If you are self-medicating, follow all directions on the product packaging. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. The dosage depends on your age, medical condition and response to treatment. Do not take more than 2 doses in 24 hours. Do not increase your dose or take this medicine more often than directed. Do not crush or chew this medicine. This can result in the release of the entire drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split pills unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the tablet whole or divided without crushing or chewing. Drink plenty of fluids while you are taking this medicine. Fluids will help loosen mucus and clear nasal congestion. Misuse of this medication (abuse) can cause serious harm (eg, brain damage, seizures, death). Do not increase your dose, take it more often or for longer than directed. Tell your doctor if the cough comes back or if it’s accompanied by fever, severe sore throat, rash, persistent headache, or if it doesn’t go away. or worsens after 7 days. These could be signs of a serious health problem. Seek immediate medical attention if you think you have a serious health problem.

Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately. If your doctor has advised you to use this medicine, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people who take this medicine do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but if it does occur seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: 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 USA, ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or go to www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada, call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

identify tablet by number and color

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to guaifenesin or dextromethorphan before taking this drug; or if you have 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: breathing problems (such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma, smoker’s cough), coughing up blood or a lot of mucus, liver problems. This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires vigilance until you know how to do it safely. Limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages. If you use marijuana (cannabis), talk to your doctor. Before surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all products you use (including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, only this medicine should be used. when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether guaifenesin or dextromethorphan passes into breast milk. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your drugs 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/OTC 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. Taking certain MAO inhibitors with this medicine may cause serious (possibly fatal) drug interactions. Avoid taking isocarboxazid, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, or tranylcypromine during treatment with this medicine. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken two weeks before treatment with this medicine. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication. A product that may interact with this medicine is rolapitant. Guaifenesin and dextromethorphan are 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 or dextromethorphan. Guaifenesin may affect the results of certain lab tests (such as the levels of certain acids in the urine). Make sure lab staff and all your doctors know you are taking this drug.

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as fainting or difficulty 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. Overdose symptoms may include: severe drowsiness, blurred vision, confusion, hallucinations, slow/shallow breathing, convulsions.

If your doctor has prescribed this medicine, do not give it to other people. Follow 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 more than 7 days.

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

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets. Do not flush medicines down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless directed to do so. Properly dispose of this product when it has expired or is no longer needed. Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Last updated October 2020 Copyright (c) 2020 First Databank, Inc.

Childrens Mucinex Cough – instructions for use, dosages, composition, analogs, side effects / Pillintrip

Usual Adult Cough Dose: shell Mucinex) capsule 10mg-200mg per intake: Do not exceed 2 capsules every 4 hours / 12 capsules / day

Dextromethorphan (Mucinex children cough) – guaifensine (Mucinex children cough) 5mg-100mg granules per intake: 2 to 4 packets every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 doses per day

Dextromethorphan (children cough Mucinex) – guaifensine (children cough Mucinex) 5 mg-100 mg / 5 ml liquid for intake: 10 to 20 ml every 4 hours, not to exceed 120 ml / day

Dextromethorphan (children cough Mucinex) – Guaifenzine (Children Cough Mucinex) 10mg-100mg/5ml liquid to take: 10ml every 4 hours, not to exceed 60ml/day mg / 5 ml liquid for intake: 10 ml every 4 hours, not to exceed 60 ml / day

Dextromethorphan (Mucinex children cough) – guaifensine (Mucinex children cough) 10 mg-200 mg / 15 ml liquid to take: 30 ml orally every 4 hours, no more than 6 doses in 24 hours

Dextromethorphan (Mucinex children cough) – guaifensine (children cough Mucinex) 15mg-200mg/5ml liquid to take: 10ml every 6 hours, not to exceed 40ml/day mg/10 ml liquid to take: 10 ml orally every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 doses in 24 hours

Dextromethorphan (Mucinex children cough) – guaifensine (Mucinex children cough) 20 mg-200 mg/30 ml liquid to take: 30 ml orally every 4 hours, no more than 6 doses in 24 hours

Dextromethorphan (Mucinex children cough) – Guaifenzine (Children Cough Mucinex) 20mg-400mg / 5ml liquid to take: 5ml every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 doses in 24 hours -400 mg / 20 ml liquid to take: 20 ml orally every 4 hours, no more than 6 doses in 24 hours

Extended release:

Dextromethorphan (Mucinex children cough) – guaifensine (Mucinex children cough) 30-600 mg tablets, extended release: 1 or 2 tablets every 12 hours, no more than 4 tablets per day

Dextromethorphan (Mucinex children cough Mucinex) guaifenesin (children cough Mucinex) 60 mg -1200 mg oral tablet, extended release: 1 tablet every 12 hours.