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Compare Mucinex vs. Delsym

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

Key takeaways

Guaifenesin ER (Mucinex) and dextromethorphan (Delsym) are both over-the-counter medications used to treat coughs, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of coughs. Guaifenesin ER is an expectorant that helps loosen and thin mucus in your airways, making it easier to cough up phlegm. It's typically taken every 12 hours and is suitable for adults and children 12 years and older. On the other hand, dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that works by reducing the activity in the part of your brain that triggers coughing, making it effective for dry coughs. It comes in both extended-release and immediate-release forms, with dosing intervals ranging from every 6 to 12 hours depending on the formulation. While guaifenesin ER is generally well-tolerated with few side effects, dextromethorphan can sometimes cause drowsiness and has a risk of misuse and overdose. Both medications are available in generic forms and are found in many over-the-counter products, so it's important to avoid taking multiple medications with the same active ingredients.

  • Guaifenesin er
    Dextromethorphan (Delsym)
  • Guaifenesin er
    Dextromethorphan (Delsym)

  • Summary of Mucinex vs. Delsym

    Summary for Expectorant

    Guaifenesin extended-release (ER) is an over-the-counter expectorant used to relieve wet cough. It helps loosen phlegm in the throat and chest so you can cough it up more easily. Guaifenesin ER can be taken orally by adults and children 12 years and older, typically every 12 hours as needed. Most people experience few to no side effects after taking this medication as directed. Guaifenesin ER is available as a brand-name and generic medication.

    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 vs. Delsym

    Indications for
    •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 vs. Delsym

    Pros and Const for Expectorant
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Taken by mouth
    •Longer-lasting compared to guaifenesin IR
    Cons
    •Tablets can't be cut or crushed
    •Not meant to be taken long-term
    •Guaifenesin in many over-the-counter products, so you can accidentally take too much
    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 vs. Delsym

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Diarrhea
    •Dizziness
    •Headache
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Belly discomfort

  • Warnings of Mucinex vs. Delsym

    Common Side Effects for
    •Accidentally taking too much medication (overdose)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Overdose and misuse
    •Medication interactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Mucinex vs. Delsym

    Learn more about Guaifenesin er
    Learn more about Dextromethorphan

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