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Mucinex DM vs. Cheratussin AC

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Mucinex DM (guaifenesin/dextromethorphan) and Guaifenesin AC (codeine/guaifenesin) are both used to relieve cough and loosen mucus, but they have some key differences. Mucinex DM is an over-the-counter medication that combines an expectorant (guaifenesin) and a cough suppressant (dextromethorphan). It is available in various forms like tablets, liquids, and granules, and can be taken by people as young as 4 years old, depending on the formulation. On the other hand, Guaifenesin AC is a prescription-only medication that combines an expectorant (guaifenesin) with an opioid (codeine). It is a controlled substance due to the potential for addiction and misuse, and it is not recommended for children under 12 years old. While Mucinex DM can cause mild side effects like dizziness and drowsiness, Guaifenesin AC has more serious risks, including the potential for dangerously slow breathing and life-threatening interactions with other medications. Additionally, Guaifenesin AC is meant for short-term use only because of the risk of dependence.

Mucinex DM

(guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)

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Codeine/guaifenesin

 

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Summary for Mucinex DM

Over-the-counter

Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) is an over-the-counter medication that's used to relieve cough and loosen mucus. It has two active ingredients: guaifenesin (an expectorant that clears chest congestion) and dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant that relieves cough). The medication is available as tablets, dissolvable granules, and liquid that are taken by mouth, each with different dosages, directions, and age limits. Extended-release tablets are taken every 12 hours, while the other forms are usually taken every 4 hours. Most people have few to no side effects when used as directed, but it can sometimes cause stomach upset, dizziness, and drowsiness.

Indications for Mucinex DM

  • Short-term relief of coughs caused by minor throat or lung irritation (e.g., common cold)
  • Loosens and breaks up mucus in the airways (chest congestion)

Pros and Cons for Mucinex DM

Pros

  • Available as a tablet, oral liquid, and dissolvable granules
  • Available over the counter without a prescription
  • Sugar-free options available, so okay to use for people with high blood sugar
  • Works within 30 minutes to help lessen cough

Cons

  • Not meant to be used long-term
  • Might need to take multiple times a day to relieve symptoms
  • Many states require you to be over 18 to buy it because of risk of misuse
  • Can't cut or crush extended-release tablets

Common Side Effects for Mucinex DM

  • Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.

Warnings for Mucinex DM

  • Risk of overdose and misuse
  • Interactions with certain medications for Parkinson's disease and depression
  • Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - dissolvable granules only

Summary for Cheratussin AC

Prescription only

Codeine/guaifenesin is a cough syrup that contains an expectorant and an opioid. It's used to help loosen mucus and calm coughs in adults and older children. Codeine/guaifenesin is taken by mouth, typically every 4 hours as needed. But it's meant for short-term use only because it contains codeine, which is a controlled substance and can be habit-forming. Some side effects of codeine/guaifenesin include sleepiness and nausea. Brand name Cheratussin AC has been discontinued.

Indications for Cheratussin AC

  • Temporarily easily cough from throat or lung irritations
  • Loosens mucus so that its easier to cough up

Pros and Cons for Cheratussin AC

Pros

  • Available as a lower-cost generic medication
  • Helps you cough less often
  • A possible option for people who can't swallow pills

Cons

Common Side Effects for Cheratussin AC

Warnings for Cheratussin AC

  • Potential for addiction and misuse
  • Short-term use only
  • Not for children under 12 years old
  • Dangerous interactions

Prices with our coupons for Mucinex DM vs. Cheratussin AC

Price Card Drug Icon
Mucinex DM20 tablets / 600mg/30mg
$9.86$19.60
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Guaifenesin/Codeine120 ml / 100mg/10mg/5ml
$9.90$20.65
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