Mucinex

Generic name: Guaifenesin
Drug class: Expectorants

Usage of Mucinex

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

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

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

Mucinex side effects

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

Common side effects of Mucinex may include:

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

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

    Before taking Mucinex

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

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

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

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

    Do not give Mucinex to a child without medical advice.

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    How to use Mucinex

    Usual Adult Dose of Mucinex for Cough:

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

    • Usual Pediatric Dose of Mucinex for Cough:

    Immediate release formulation:

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

    • Sustained release formulation:

  • 2 to 5 years: 300 mg orally every 12 hours, not to exceed 600 mg/day
  • 6 to 11 years: 600 mg orally every 12 hours, not to exceed 1.2 g/day
  • 12 years or older: 600 to 1200 mg orally every 12 hours, not to exceed 2.4 g/day

    • Warnings

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

    What other drugs will affect Mucinex

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

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