Mucinex is the brand name of a popular cough medication that is sold over-the-counter (OTC) in most drugstores as well as online. The main ingredient in Mucinex (and many other cough medications) is guaifenesin, an expectorant. Expectorants work by encouraging the secretion or ejection of matter such as phlegm or mucus from the bronchi, lungs, trachea, and airways. It does not usually destroy or eliminate the mucus; it just thins it out enough so that it can be drained more freely during a cough.
It is most popularly taken to relieve the unwanted effects that are produced because of a cold or fever. It relieves the congestion in the chest by making the mucus less thick and easier to cough. It has been shown to last around 10 to 12 hours.
It comes in a few different products, methods of consumption, and age groups. Some of their products include Mucinex Expectorant, Mucinex D, DM, Fast-Max, Sinus-Max and Children’s Mucinex. There are a variety of ways it can be consumed, such as tablets, caplets, cough liquid, mini-melts, chewing gum, and nasal spray. Most of these come in a wide selection of flavors.
People need to use Mucinex two times a day. This is considered a fairly low amount considering that two doses of Mucinex would roughly be the equivalent of taking Robitussin up to 6 times in a day. The previously mention many forms (and flavors) of Mucinex also make it a more attractive option that its competitors. This can also help sciatica or back pain patients to get cured.
Mucinex has also been known to be used for purposes other than cough medication. A few examples include singers using it for performing in humid climates, asthma relief, and controlling gout. Some people also believe that taking the drug helps assist in promoting pregnancy – this has not been proven.
Another chief reason for the popularity of Mucinex is that is usually has a relatively low cause of side effects. Apart from dry or “cotton” mouth, many people have experienced Mucinex without any side effect. However, it is not a completely side effect free drug, as it does contain many possible side effects – click here for a full list. Again, the main ingredient is guaifenesin, and if you are allergic to it, you may experience a serious allergic reaction. You should always consult a doctor before taking a new medication.
“Mr. Mucus”
The closest thing to Mucinex’s spokesman is their computer generated “Mr. Mucus”, which is more of an anti-spokesman. He is featured in most of their advertising, including TV commercials, print adverts, and the Mucinex website; he is also shown on the packaging of select Mucinex products. He is an animated, comical visual representation of the mucus in an afflicted person. Mr. Mucus is portrayed as an anthropomorphic green blob (presumably of mucus) with a hat and traveling suitcase. He is overweight, sloppy, dirty, rude and crass. The commercial usually begins with him “moving in” and ends with him being forced out by Mucinex.
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Original Liquid Black ElderberryMore About Mucinex
The purpose of guaifenesin ( the main component of Mucinex) is to treat congestion and coughs that are a result of breathing illnesses (like bronchitis) or something more simple, like the common cold. It is not administered for ongoing problems that come from things like smoking or emphysema (although it can be if instructed by the doctor). Mucinex is an expectorant, which functions by making the mucus in the airway thinner and looser; this clears the congested area which obviously makes it easier to breathe.
If you are taking Mucinex on your accord (not with a doctor’s instruction), it is very important that you read the instructions that are on the package carefully. Make sure that it is the correct medication for you to take. Also, confirm that it doesn’t negatively interact with any other medication you are taking.
For kids under six years old, Mucinex and other cough medications (containing guaifenesin) for the common cold have not proven to be effective or safe for use. Unless you are specifically told by a doctor, you should not administer it to a child under six. Similarly, some products (like an extended-release tablets or capsule) should not be used on children that are under the age of twelve.
To lessen the chances of side effects, whether in children or adults, follow the directions of the product as closely as possible. Mind the dosage as well; do not double up on similar medications. Consult a pharmacist or doctor regarding other methods for easing the symptoms of a cough or cold, such as drinking plenty of water, or using nasal sprays.Mucinex Dosage and Administration
The medication should be taken by mouth every four hours (it is unimportant whether it is with or without food). Obviously, your doctor’s instructions supersede these. If you are taking Mucinex by your decision, you must make sure to read all the directions and instructions on the box.
Guaifenesin can sometimes produce a bitter flavor. It’s not advised to split the tablet (however, if it has a score line you may). Do not crush or chew on it; you must swallow the entire tablet.If you bought the liquid and not the tablet, make sure to meticulously measure the amount you take with a measuring utensil. Using a normal spoon can be disastrous as it is not always an exact measurement.If you bought the powder packets, all you need to do is pour out the entire packet onto your tongue and immediately swallow. Again, don’t chew or crush (as this will give you that bitter taste).The dose is determined by the age, expected the response, and medical condition of the taker. It is not advised to take over six doses in one day.Always drink more than enough water and fluid when you take Mucinex. It will help clear up congestion by breaking apart the mucus.
If in addition to your cough, you get a headache, fever, rash, serious sore throat, or gets worse, seek medical help.
Mucinex Side Effects
Before reading this article, please understand that this list may not contain every single possible side effect of Mucinex. This is because some instances may not have been documented or reported. Make sure to talk to a doctor for medical advice pertaining specifically to your needs.
If you didn’t already know, the main and most important ingredient in Mucinex is guaifenesin. It is an expectorant that allows for the loosening of mucus in lungs. Apart from Mucinex, it is also the base ingredient in medications such as Robitussin and MucaPlex. Thus, guaifenesin side effects are the same for most of the aforementioned medications.
The Mucinex expectorant is tolerated well by a healthy person
List of Common Side Effects:Dizzy feeling (lightheadedness)A headache (feeling of discomfort or pain in your head)Rashes (an area of your skin that changes in appearance and texture)Upset stomach (discomfort in the stomach)Vomiting (puking, throwing up)Nausea (feeling like you need to vomit)Anaphylactic reaction (a serious allergic reaction)
If you are allergic to Mucinex (aka guaifenesin), side effects can potentially include: HivesTrouble breathingSwelling or puffing.
