|  | Conditions Treatments | Cold Flu

Mucinex Effects

Mucinex or guaifenesin is a medication used to treat congestion and control cough from cold, flu or other respiratory illness. It is available over-the-counter in controlled-release tablets, granules and liquid, with doses for both pediatric and adult patients. Classified as an expectorant, Mucinex promotes the breaking up of thickened mucus secretions, so they may be more easily expelled from the body.

  1. Side Effects

    • Mucinex side effects are generally mild and limited to headache, nausea, throat irritation, drowsiness or dizziness. Patients taking Mucinex may notice an increase in the productiveness of cough as chest and head congestion are loosened.

      As with any medication, allergic reaction is possible. Patients should seek medical attention if they experience rash, itching, swallowing or breathing difficulty, hives or swelling. Patients with a known sensitivity to guaifenesin should not take Mucinex.

    Overdose and Toxicity

    • Doses of Mucinex up to 2,400mg daily---divided into two doses---may be prescribed for adults and are generally well tolerated. However, at higher concentrations, patients can experience vomiting, respiratory depression or coma.

    Misconceptions

    • Not all products labeled with the Mucinex brand name contain guaifenesin as the sole ingredient. The Mucinex name is also used on a variety of other formulations containing additional ingredients used in the treatment of cold and flu symptoms. These preparations may contain pseudoephedrine, a decongestant, or dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant. The Mucinex brand also markets a nasal spray containing no guaifenesin at all, but a topical decongestant called oxymetazoline. Patients should read labels carefully when selecting a Mucinex product.

    Special Precautions

    • In adults, Mucinex is often prescribed as 600mg twice daily, about every 12 hours. Within hospitals and some clinics, Mucinex may be confused with Mucomyst, another medication given in 600mg doses twice daily prior to certain diagnostic procedures. Patients in these settings should be aware of the similarities and verify with their health care professionals which medication was intended.

    Considerations

    • Controlled-release tablets should not be chewed, crushed or dissolved. Doing so alters the mechanism that provides extended action. Mucinex should be taken with a full glass of water. Patients may find increased fluid intake boosts the action of Mucinex, and hydration is encouraged with its use.

Cold Flu - Related Articles