Indication-specific dosing for Mucinex, Bidex 400, Organidin NR (guaifenesin), frequency-based adverse effects, comprehensive interactions, contraindications, pregnancy & lactation schedules, and cost information.

Dosing & Uses

AdultPediatric

Dosage Forms & Strengths

tablet

• 200mg
• 400mg

tablet, extended-release

• 600mg
• 1200mg

oral syrup

• 100mg/5mL

liquid

• 100mg/5mL
• 200mg/5mL

packet

• 50mg
• 100mg

Cough

100-400 mg PO q4hr; not to exceed 2.4 g/day

Extended release: 1-2 tablets (600-1200 mg) PO q12hr; not to exceed 4 tablets/24 hr (2.4 g/day)

Administration

Swallow extended-release tablets whole; do not chew or crush

Dosage Forms & Strengths

tablet

• 200mg
• 400mg

tablet, extended-release

• 600mg
• 1200mg

oral syrup

• 100mg/5mL

liquid

• 100mg/5mL
• 200mg/5mL

packet

• 50mg
• 100mg

Cough

6 months to 2 years: 25-50 mg q4hr; not to exceed 300 mg/day

2-6 years: 50-100 mg PO q4hr; not to exceed 600 mg/day

6-12 years: 100-200 mg PO q4hr; not to exceed 1. 2 g/day

>12 years

• 100-400 mg PO q4hr; not to exceed 2.4 g/day, OR
• 1-2 extended-release tablets (600-1200 mg) PO q12hr; not to exceed 4 tablets/24 hr (2.4 g/day)

Adverse Effects

Frequency Not Defined

Dizziness

Drowsiness

Decreased uric acid levels

Stomach pain

Nausea

Vomiting

Headache

Rash

Postmarketing Reports

Kidney stone formation

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Warnings

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity

Cautions

Often comes in combos; check brand name/other constituents

Some products may contain phenylalanine

When using as self-medication in chronic or persistent coughs, notify health-care practitioner if no improvement within 7 days

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Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy category: C

Lactation: Excretion in milk unknown; use with caution

Pregnancy Categories

A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.

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Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

Reduces viscosity of secretions by increasing amount of respiratory tract fluid and irritates gastric mucosa

Absorption

Onset: 30 min

Duration: 4-6 hr

Metabolism

Liver

Metabolite: b-(2-methoxyphenoxy) lactic acid

Elimination

Half-life: 1 hr

Excretion: Urine

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Images

Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.

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Patient Handout

Patient Education
guaifenesin oral

GUAIFENESIN – ORAL

(gwye-FEN-e-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Guiatuss, Robitussin

USES: Guaifenesin is used to treat coughs and congestion caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses. This product is usually not used for ongoing cough from smoking or long-term breathing problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema) unless directed by your doctor. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier.If you are self-treating with this medication, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to be sure it is right for you. (See also Precautions section.)Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold. To decrease the risk for side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 hours. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Guaifenesin may have a bitter taste. Do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.For powder packets, empty the entire contents of the packet onto the tongue and swallow. To prevent a bitter taste, do not chew.Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not take more than 6 doses in a 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 to break up mucus and clear congestion.Tell your doctor if your cough is accompanied by a headache that doesn’t go away, fever, severe sore throat, rash, or if it lasts, returns, or gets worse after 7 days. These may be signs of a serious medical problem. Get medical help right away if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea or vomiting may occur. If either of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged 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, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble 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 may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at 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.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma, smoker’s cough), cough with blood or large amounts 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 using this product safelyThe liquid forms and powder packets of this medication may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to restrict your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), consult your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is unknown if guaifenesin passes into breast milk. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.Guaifenesin is available in both prescription and nonprescription products. Check the labels of all your medications to make sure you are not taking more than one product containing guaifenesin.This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as urine levels of certain acids), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious 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. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Information last revised May 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

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Medscape prescription drug monographs are based on FDA-approved labeling information, unless otherwise noted, combined with additional data derived from primary medical literature.

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.

Mucinex: use, dosage and side effects

Generic name: guaifenesin (gwye FEN e sin)
Brand name: Mucinex
Drug class: Expectorants

Jai Sinha, MD. Last updated: June 14, 2021

What is Mucinex?

Mucinex (guaifenesin) is an expectorant. It helps loosen congestion in the chest and throat, making it easier to cough through the mouth.

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Mucinex is used to relieve chest congestion caused by colds, infections, or allergies.

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

Warnings

Follow all directions on the medicine label and container. Tell each of your health care workers about all your illnesses, allergies, and any medications you take.

Before you take this medicine

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

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

It is not known if 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.

Do not give Mucinex to a child without consulting a doctor.

How should I take Mucinex?

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

Take Mucinex with food if it causes stomach upset.

Measure liquid medication using the syringe dispenser, special measuring spoon or medication cup provided. If you do not have a dose measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Drink plenty of fluids to relieve congestion and lubricate your throat while you are taking this medicine.

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

Dosage information

Usual Adult Dose of Mucinex for Cough:

Immediate-release formulation: 200 to 400 mg orally every 4 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 2.4 g/day.

Sustained release formulation: 600 to 1200 mg orally every 12 hours, up to a maximum of 2.4 g/day.

Usual Pediatric Dose of Mucinex for Cough:

Immediate Release:

Under 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, up to a maximum of 600 mg/day.

6 to 11 years: 100 to 200 mg orally every 4 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 1.2 g/day.

12 years and older: 200 to 400 mg orally every 4 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 2.4 g/day.

Sustained release formula:

2 to 5 years: 300 mg orally every 12 hours, up to a maximum of 600 mg/day.

6 to 11 years: 600 mg orally every 12 hours, up to a maximum of 1.2 g/day.

12 years and older: 600 to 1200 mg orally every 12 hours, up to a maximum of 2.4 g/day.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because cough or cold medicine is taken when needed, you may not be able to follow your dosing schedule. If you are taking the medicine 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 for the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Helpline 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 vigilant.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other cold or cough medicine. Many combination medicines contain mucinex. Eating certain foods together can result in you getting too much of a certain drug. Check the label to see if the medicine contains an expectorant.

Mucinex side effects

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

Common side effects of Mucinex may include:

• dizziness, headache;

• rash; or

• nausea, vomiting, indigestion.

This is not a complete list of side effects, others may occur. Ask your doctor about side effects. You can report side effects to the 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 are currently taking and any medicines you start or stop using.

More information

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

Always check with your healthcare provider to make sure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Choosing an effective expectorant – article on the site Aptechestvo, Nizhny Novgorod

Coughing, sputum formation in the respiratory tract cause severe discomfort, negatively affect the quality of life, and do not allow breathing normally. All these symptoms appear with colds and inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract. To alleviate the human condition, accelerate the recovery and recovery of the respiratory tract, it is recommended to use expectorants to remove sputum in adults. Before taking them, you should consult your doctor, because they have contraindications, and they can also cause side effects. The specialist will conduct an examination, select the appropriate drug and prescribe the correct treatment regimen.

When should I take it?

Any effective expectorant is good for colds, acute respiratory diseases. Their action is aimed at enhancing the excretion of sputum, viscous mucus, a side and additional plus will be a decrease in pain and discomfort in the throat. With regular intake, the frequency of coughing decreases, it gradually disappears.

An expectorant for sputum in adults and children is prescribed to eliminate the following diseases and problems:

• Problems with the nasal passages, sinuses, pharynx. Often a secret accumulates in the back of the pharynx, it drains from the nasal passages and sinuses. This is observed against the background of a cold, acute respiratory infections – rhinitis, sinusitis, laryngitis, sinusitis and other problems;

• Problems with the lungs and bronchi. Against the background of pneumonia, bronchitis, mucus and sputum are formed in these organs. Gradually, sputum accumulates, complications may occur;

• Allergies. If a person has allergic reactions in a chronic form, then a large amount of thick secretion is formed in the airways, it cannot go away on its own. Its production increases with exacerbation of the pathological condition;

• Taking steroid medications. During the treatment of bronchial asthma, inhaled drugs are used, they contain steroids. Glucocorticosteroids reduce the severity of bronchial mucosal edema, mucus production, sputum production and airway hyperreactivity

To improve the condition and enhance the excretion of sputum in these conditions, the doctor often prescribes drugs. After the examination, identifying the causes of the pathology, the specialist selects the best expectorant and prescribes treatment.

Contraindications

Before taking it is worth considering the contraindications and side effects of drugs with an expectorant effect.