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Compare Mucinex DM vs. Delsym

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

Key takeaways

Mucinex DM (guaifenesin/dextromethorphan) and Delsym (dextromethorphan) are both over-the-counter medications used to relieve cough caused by minor throat or lung irritation, such as the common cold. They both contain dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant. However, Mucinex DM also includes guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps loosen mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough out. Mucinex DM is available in tablets, oral liquid, and dissolvable granules, while Delsym is available as an extended-release syrup and immediate-release caplets. Mucinex DM is typically taken every 4 to 12 hours depending on the formulation, whereas Delsym is taken every 6 to 12 hours, depending on the formulation. Both medications can cause drowsiness and stomach upset. Do not take either medication with other products containing dextromethorphan.

  • Mucinex dm (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
    Dextromethorphan (Delsym)
  • Mucinex dm (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
    Dextromethorphan (Delsym)

  • Summary of Mucinex DM vs. Delsym

    Summary for Expectorant / Antitussive

    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.

    Summary for Antitussive

    Dextromethorphan (Delsym) is an over-the-counter cough suppressant (antitussive). It helps relieve "dry" cough in adults and children by suppressing the cough reflex. Dextromethorphan (Delsym) is available as an extended-release (ER) cough syrup that's taken by mouth, typically every 12 hours. It also comes as an immediate-release (IR) caplet that's usually taken every 6 to 8 hours. Dextromethorphan might also come in additional formulations, under other brands. Some common side effects of dextromethorphan (Delsym) include nausea and stomach upset. Rarely, it can also make you sleepy.

  • Indications of Mucinex DM vs. Delsym

    Indications for
    •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)
    Indications for
    •Short-term relief of cough caused by minor throat or lung irritation (e.g., common cold)

  • Pros and Cons of Mucinex DM vs. Delsym

    Pros and Const for Expectorant / Antitussive
    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
    Pros and Const for Antitussive
    Pros
    •Available as pills or oral liquids
    •Sugar-free options available
    •Available over the counter without a prescription
    Cons
    •Might need to take multiple times a day
    •Meant for short-term treatment of cough only
    •Found in many OTC products, so you can accidentally take too much

  • Common Side Effects of Mucinex DM vs. Delsym

    Common Side Effects for
    •Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Belly discomfort

  • Warnings of Mucinex DM vs. Delsym

    Common Side Effects for
    •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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Overdose and misuse
    •Medication interactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Mucinex DM vs. Delsym

    Learn more about Mucinex dm
    Learn more about Dextromethorphan

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