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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.

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What’S The Best Cough Medicine? Comparing The Effectiveness Of Over The Counter Vs. Prescription

guaifenesin ER

 

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Mucinex DM

(guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)

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Summary for Mucinex

Over-the-counter

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.

Indications for Mucinex

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

Pros and Cons for Mucinex

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

Common Side Effects for Mucinex

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Headache

Warnings for Mucinex

  • Accidentally taking too much medication (overdose)

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

Prices with our coupons for Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

Price Card Drug Icon
Guaifenesin ER60 tablets / 600mg
$25.07-
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Mucinex DM20 tablets / 600mg/30mg
$9.86$19.60
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