If mucus sits in your airways, bacteria can collect and grow there as well. That bacteria can lead to infection. Show
If you need help breaking up the mucus in your chest, you might consider a type of medication known as an expectorant. Expectorants are used to treat chest congestion and cough. They help relieve chest congestion by breaking up mucus that’s stuck in your airways so you can cough it up. The drug guaifenesin is currently the only expectorant that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved for over-the-counter (OTC) use. It’s found in many popular products, including Mucinex. Guaifenesin is safe and well-tolerated. It’s quite possible that you can take it or Mucinex and have no side effects. In fact, most people do not. Still, they can cause side effects in some people. There are multiple versions of Mucinex. The products that contain guaifenesin are available as a liquid, a tablet, or granules. Products with DM in their names also include small amounts of the ingredient dextromethorphan, which helps suppress cough. Mucinex products with guaifenesin as their main active ingredient are:
Most other versions of Mucinex also contain guaifenesin but have acetaminophen as their main active ingredient. The side effects that people can experience with Mucinex are usually mild to moderate. Some of the common side effects typically affect three different systems of the body. The digestive systemMucinex may cause the following digestive issues:
The nervous systemMucinex may also cause:
The integumentary system (skin)Mucinex can sometimes lead to a rash or hives. Generally, if you use guaifenesin or Mucinex as directed, you should not have serious side effects. However, overuse or misuse can cause problems. Taking a dosage that’s too high may increase your risk of:
Only people who are at least 12 years old should take Mucinex tablets. The FDA has not approved them for use in children younger than that. However, children as young as 4 years old can use liquid Mucinex or Mucinex Mini-Melts. Mini-Melts are granules that you sprinkle on the tongue. These products are specifically marked for children on the packaging. If your child is younger than 4 years old, speak with their doctor about the best way to treat their cough. Side effects of Mucinex in children are generally the same as they are in adults. Overall, if you use Mucinex as directed, you probably will not have side effects. If you do have any, they’re usually mild. There are some things you can do to help ease any bothersome side effects. For example, if Mucinex upsets your stomach, try taking it with food or a glass of milk. Only use Mucinex for cough and chest congestion from mucus buildup. If you have another type of cough or are unsure what’s causing your cough, speak with a doctor before using Mucinex. Also, check with a doctor before using Mucinex if you take other medications or have other medical conditions. They can help you avoid potentially harmful drug interactions.
ACETAMINOPHEN; DEXTROMETHORPHAN; GUAIFENESIN; PHENYLEPHRINE (a set a MEE noe fen; dex troe meth OR fan; gwye FEN e sin; fen il EF rin) is a combination of a pain reliever, a cough suppressant, an expectorant, and a decongestant. It is used to treat the aches and pains, fever, cough and congestion of a cold. This medicine will not treat an infection.
COLD HEAD CONGESTION (Generic for MUCINEX FAST-MAX COLD-FLU) Information
DISCLAIMER: This drug information content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should always consult their physician with any questions regarding a medical condition and to obtain medical advice and treatment. Drug information is sourced from GSDD (Gold Standard Drug Database ) provided by Elsevier. Medicine Chestcold head congestion has been added to your Medicine Chest. Log InYou need to log into the site to use this feature You may find alternative ways to save with this medication. Talk to your pharmacist about the potential option(s) noted below.
Close Does Mucinex Fast Max Cold and Flu make you drowsy?This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy.
What is the most common side effect of Mucinex?Common side effects of Mucinex may include:
rash; nausea; vomiting; stomach upset.
Who should not take Mucinex Fast Max?Mucinex Fast-Max Cold/Flu MS Contraindications
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to acetaminophen (Tylenol®), or to any other ingredients in the medicine you are using. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old.
Can Mucinex cause problems?Generally, if you use guaifenesin or Mucinex as directed, you should not have serious side effects. However, overuse or misuse can cause problems. Taking a dosage that's too high may increase your risk of: dizziness.
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