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Compare Mucinex vs. Cheratussin AC

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

Key takeaways

Guaifenesin ER (Mucinex ER, Mucus Relief ER) and codeine/guaifenesin (Cheritussin AC) are both used to treat cough, but they have some key differences. Guaifenesin ER is an over-the-counter expectorant that helps loosen mucus in your chest, making it easier to cough up. It is taken every 12 hours and is generally well-tolerated with few side effects. On the other hand, codeine/guaifenesin is a prescription-only medication that combines an expectorant with an opioid to both loosen mucus and reduce the urge to cough. It is taken every 4 hours as needed and is meant for short-term use due to the risk of addiction and side effects like drowsiness and nausea. While guaifenesin ER is available as a generic medication, codeine/guaifenesin is also available in generic form but is a controlled substance due to the presence of codeine. Both medications can be used by those 12 and older.

  • Guaifenesin er
    Codeine/guaifenesin
  • Guaifenesin er
    Codeine/guaifenesin

  • Summary of Mucinex vs. Cheratussin AC

    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 Opioid / Expectorant
    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 of Mucinex vs. Cheratussin AC

    Indications for
    •Loosens and breaks up mucus in the airways (chest congestion)
    Indications for
    •Temporarily easily cough from throat or lung irritations
    •Loosens mucus so that its easier to cough up

  • Pros and Cons of Mucinex vs. Cheratussin AC

    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 Opioid / Expectorant
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Helps you cough less often
    •A possible option for people who can't swallow pills
    Cons
    •Not for long-term use because can be habit-forming
    •Not for children under 12 years old
    •Can cause dizziness and drowsiness

  • Common Side Effects of Mucinex vs. Cheratussin AC

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea
    •Diarrhea
    •Dizziness
    •Headache
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (40%)
    •Nausea (37%)

  • Warnings of Mucinex vs. Cheratussin AC

    Common Side Effects for
    •Accidentally taking too much medication (overdose)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Potential for addiction and misuse
    •Short-term use only
    •Not for children under 12 years old
    •Dangerous interactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Mucinex vs. Cheratussin AC

    Learn more about Guaifenesin er
    Learn more about Codeine/guaifenesin

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