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Compare Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

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

Key takeaways

Guaifenesin ER (Mucinex ER) and Mucinex DM (guaifenesin/dextromethorphan) are both over-the-counter cough medications used to relieve chest congestion, but they have some key differences. Guaifenesin ER is an expectorant that helps loosen mucus in your airways, making it easier to cough out. It is available as a generic and is typically taken every 12 hours by people ages 12 and older. On the other hand, Mucinex DM combines guaifenesin with dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant that reduces the urge to cough by acting on the brain. Mucinex DM comes as tablets and liquids. Depending on the formula, it can be taken by children 4 years and up. The dose depends on what formula you use, but varies from every 4 hours to twice day. While Guaifenesin ER is generally well-tolerated with few side effects, Mucinex DM can cause drowsiness and has a risk of misuse due to its dextromethorphan content. Additionally, Mucinex DM should not be taken with certain medications for Parkinson's disease or depression. Neither medication should be used long-term and both should be taken as directed to avoid overdose.

drug combination

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  • Guaifenesin er
    Mucinex dm (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
  • Guaifenesin er
    Mucinex dm (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)

  • Summary of Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

    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 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.

  • Indications of Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

    Indications for
    •Loosens and breaks up mucus in the airways (chest congestion)
    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)

  • Pros and Cons of Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

    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 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

  • Common Side Effects of Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Diarrhea
    •Dizziness
    •Headache
    Common Side Effects for
    •Side effects aren't common. See Other Side Effects.

  • Warnings of Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

    Common Side Effects for
    •Accidentally taking too much medication (overdose)
    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

  • Prices with our coupons for Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

    Learn more about Guaifenesin er
    Learn more about Mucinex dm

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