Homechevron_rightDrugschevron_rightMucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) Prices
Generic Mucinex DM
Used for Cough
Used for Cough
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) is an over-the-counter medication that's used to relieve cough and loosen up mucus. It has two active ingredients: guaifenesin (an expectorant that clears chest congestion) and dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant that relieves cough). Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) is available as tablets, dissolvable granules, and liquid that are taken by mouth. Different formulations have different dosages, directions, and age-cut offs (ranging from ages 4 to 12). Extended-release tablets are taken every 12 hours, and the other formulations are usually taken every 4 hours. Most people have few to no side effects from the medication when it's used as directed, but it can sometimes cause stomach upset, dizziness, and drowsiness.
Reviewed by:
Ally Tsai, PharmD
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on October 22, 2023
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What is Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)?
What is Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) used 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)
How Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) works
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) is a combination of two medications.
Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It loosens mucus in your airways by making it thinner. This makes it easier to cough out mucus and help clear chest congestion.
Dextromethorphan is an antitussive medication, which is another name for a cough suppressant. It works on the part of your brain that makes you cough (your cough reflex). Its actions on the brain make you cough less.
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Are you looking for information on guaifenesin (Mucinex) or dextromethorphan (Delsym) instead?
When does Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
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HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect
Drug Facts
Common BrandsMucinex DM, Adult Tussin Cough and Congestion DM, Robitussin Cough and Chest Congestion DM
Drug ClassExpectorant / Antitussive
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
More on Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) essentials
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Avg retail price
$16.06
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What are the side effects of Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)?
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
Other Side Effects
Possible guaifenesin side effects:
Possible dextromethorphan side effects:
Serious Side Effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
Source:DailyMed
The following side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Headache
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Pros and cons of Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
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
Pharmacist tips for Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
Tell your provider if you have a long-lasting cough that's caused by cigarette smoke or bronchitis, a cough that's linked to a breathing problem (e.g., asthma, emphysema), or a cough with a lot of mucus. Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) might not be appropriate for these type of coughs.
Please talk with your provider if your cough gets worse, comes back after clearing up, or lasts more than a week. Also let them know if you also have rash, fever, or headache. These might be signs of a more serious medical condition that can't be treated with Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan).
For the extended-release tablets: Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water. Don't crush, break, or chew the tablets since it can change how the medication works.
For the oral liquids, solutions, and syrups: Be sure to use the medication dose cup, spoon, or oral syringe that comes in the packaging to measure out your child's dose. Ask your pharmacy if you need extras. Don't use household spoons because they might not be accurate. Using household spoons might cause your child to take the wrong amount of Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan).
For the dissolvable granules: Pour the entire contents of packet onto the tongue and swallow. Make sure you don't chew or crunch the granules because doing so can change how the medication tastes.
Don't give Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) to toddlers to take without speaking to a provider because the medication can cause serious side effects in young children. Some safer options include using a clean humidifier or cool mist vaporizer or giving your toddler ice chips or popsicles to suck on to soothe a sore throat.
Guaifenesin and dextromethorphan can be found in many over-the-counter medications, so make sure you read package labels carefully. Don't use multiple products with these ingredients. In particular, taking too much dextromethorphan can cause serious side effects, such as fast heartbeat, slow breathing, confusion, or seizures.
Keep Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) up and away and out of children's reach and sight. Always put medication away every time you use it. This prevents children from accidentally swallowing any medication that was left out. Call a Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away if your child might’ve accidentally swallowed the medication, even if you aren't completely sure.
More on Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) tips
Frequently asked questions about Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
Does Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) make you sleepy or drowsy?
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Though uncommon, it's possible for Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) to make you drowsy. Avoid drinking alcohol while you're take Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) because it can make you feel even drowsier, which can lead to accidental injuries. Don't drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Is Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) for day or night?
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You can take Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) during the day or at night. But because this medication can sometimes cause drowsiness and dizziness, make sure to avoid activities that require alertness until you find out how it affects you. In addition, the extended-release tablets last for about 12 hours, so you'll typically take it once during the day and once at night. But the other formulations (e.g., oral solution, oral granules) typically last only 4 hours, so you might need to take it multiple times throughout the day and night for symptom relief. Talk to your provider or pharmacist if you need help figuring out which formulation best fits your needs.
How many Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) can I take each day?
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Different formulations of Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) have different directions, strengths, and dosage limits. Make sure you're taking this medication correctly by following the product instructions on the package. If you're not sure, ask your provider or pharmacist about how much medication you can take per day. For Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) extended-release, regular-strength tablets, people 12 years and older can take 1 or 2 tablets by mouth every 12 hours; don't take more than 4 tablets in a 24-hour period. For Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) extended-release, maximum-strength tablets, people 12 years and older can take 1 tablet by mouth every 12 hours; don't take more than 2 tablets in a 24-hour period.
How often can you take Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)?
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You can take the extended-release tablets every 12 hours as needed for cough and chest congestion. For most other formulations (e.g., oral solution, oral granules), you can take the medication every 4 hours on an as-needed basis if you have cough or chest congestion. Make sure you follow the product instructions on the package or talk with your provider or pharmacist about how often you can use your medication.
What does "DM" mean on Mucinex DM?
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The "DM" on Mucinex DM products stands for dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant. It works to lessen cough by blocking your cough reflex. Mucinex DM contains dextromethorphan and another ingredient called guaifenesin, which helps relieve cough. Note that Mucinex DM is different than Mucinex D. Mucinex D contains guaifenesin and pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that relieves stuffy nose.
Is Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) safe during pregnancy?
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Speak with your provider about the risks and benefits of taking Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) for your cough during pregnancy. Mucinex DM contains two ingredients, dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. Although some studies didn't find a link between using dextromethorphan and birth defects, there aren't many studies on the use of guaifenesin during pregnancy. To be safe, it's best to avoid taking Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) in your first trimester. Ask your provider or pharmacist about safe options to relieve your cough if you're pregnant.
Can you take Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) and Nyquil together?
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You shouldn't take Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) with Nyquil. Most products under the brand Nyquil contain dextromethorphan, which is one of the active ingredients in Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan). Taking too much dextromethorphan can lead to overdose symptoms, such as feeling "high," hallucinations, fast heartbeat, slow breathing, and seizures. Keep in mind that many over-the-counter cough, cold, and flu medications contain similar ingredients, and it's best to avoid taking medications with overlapping ingredients. Always check with your provider or pharmacist before taking multiple over-the-counter cough, cold, and flu medications to make sure they're safe for you to take together.
Can you take ibuprofen or Tylenol with Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)?
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Yes, it's generally considered safe to take ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)) with Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan). These medications contain different ingredients and relieve different symptoms of cold and flu. Ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are used to relieve pain and fever. And Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) is used to soothe cough and chest congestion. Keep in mind that these pain relievers have risks as well. Ibuprofen (Advil) has heart risks and can cause kidney problems, and acetaminophen (Tylenol) has a risk for liver damage. Before taking over-the-counter cold or flu medications, speak with your provider to make sure it's safe for you to do so.
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What are the risks and warnings for Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)?
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Risk of overdose and misuse
Risk factors: Taking with other similar medications
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) contains two common ingredients that are found in many other over-the-counter products. Using more than one product with the same ingredients can lead to an accidental overdose that can be dangerous. In addition, some people might misuse dextromethorphan on purpose, which can lead to poisoning, especially if it's taken at high doses. This is why many retail stores require you to be over 18 years old to purchase products containing dextromethorphan.
Talk to your provider or pharmacist before you start Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) if you're not sure whether you're already taking a medication that has dextromethorphan or guaifenesin in it. To prevent an accidental overdose, carefully follow the product instructions on the package.
Call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away if you or anyone else might’ve accidentally taken too much Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan), even if you aren't completely sure. Also call the Poison Control Center or get medical help if you or someone else has trouble breathing, hallucinations, or changes in behavior after taking the medication because these can be signs that someone's taken too much.
Interactions with certain medications for Parkinson's disease and depression
Talk to your provider first before using Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) if you're taking or have recently taken medications for Parkinson's disease or depression known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These medications can interact with Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) and cause dangerously high blood pressure. This drug interaction can also lead to a rare, but serious side effect called serotonin syndrome. Ask your provider about other options to relieve your cough symptoms if you've taken these medications in the past two weeks.
Caution use in people with phenylketonuria (PKU) - dissolvable granules only
The dissolvable granule formulation of Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) contain phenylalanine, a sweetener that's often added to medications. Phenylalanine is harmless to most people. But it can be dangerous to people with an inherited medical condition called phenylketonuria (PKU). Avoid using the dissolvable granules if you or your child has a history of PKU. Consider using the oral solution or tablet, which don't contain phenylalanine. Talk to a provider if you're not sure which products contain phenylalanine and which products are safer options before using any over-the-counter products.
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) dosage forms
The average cost for 20 tablets of 600mg/30mg of Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) is $11.72 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 27.06% off the average retail price of $16.06.
Capsule
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200mg/10mg | 20 capsules | $4.60 | $0.23 |
Ml of oral solution
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200mg/10mg/5ml | 118 ml | $5.55 | $0.05 |
| 200mg/20mg/10ml | 237 ml | $5.91 | $0.02 |
| 200mg/20mg/20ml | 118 ml | $4.89 | $0.04 |
| 400mg/20mg/20ml | 236 ml | $6.85 | $0.03 |
Ml of syrup
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100mg/10mg/5ml | 237 ml | $5.14 | $0.02 |
Tablet
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400mg/20mg | 30 tablets | $5.40 | $0.18 |
| 600mg/30mg | 20 tablets | $11.72 | $0.59 |
| 1200mg/60mg | 14 tablets | $6.58 | $0.47 |
Typical dosing for Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
This medication is made by many different manufacturers in different formulations. These formulations can have different directions and strengths.
Follow the specific product instructions on the package or talk with your provider or pharmacist about how to take this medication correctly. Some examples are listed below:
Extended-release tablets
Regular strength (Mucinex DM and generic): Each tablet contains 600 mg of guaifenesin and 30 mg of dextromethorphan.
People 12 years and older: The typical dose is 1 or 2 tablets by mouth every 12 hours. Don't take more than 4 tablets in a 24-hour period.
Children under age 12: Don't use. Ask your child's provider for other options.
Maximum strength (Mucinex DM Maximum Strength and generic): Each tablet contains 1,200 mg of guaifenesin and 60 mg of dextromethorphan.
People 12 years and older: The typical dose is 1 tablet by mouth every 12 hours. Don't take more than 2 tablets in a 24-hour period.
Children under age 12: Don't use. Ask your child's provider for other options.
Oral liquids
Children’s Robitussin Cough and Chest Congestion DM: Each teaspoon (5 mL) contains 50 mg of guaifenesin and 5 mg of dextromethorphan. Don't take more than 6 doses in a 24-hour period.
People 12 years and older: The typical dose is 20 mL by mouth every 4 hours.
Children 6 to 12 years: The typical dose is 10 mL by mouth every 4 hours.
Children 4 to 6 years: The typical dose is 5 mL by mouth every 4 hours.
Children under age 4: Don't use. Ask your child's provider for other options.
Oral granules
Mucinex Children's Cough and Chest Congestion Mini-Melts: Each packet contains 100 mg of guaifenesin and 5 mg of dextromethorphan. Don't take more than 6 doses in a 24-hour period.
People 12 years and older: The typical dose is 2 to 4 packets by mouth every 4 hours.
Children 6 to 12 years: The typical dose is 1 to 2 packets by mouth every 4 hours.
Children 4 to 6 years: The typical dose is 1 packet by mouth every 4 hours.
Children under age 4: Don't use. Ask your child's provider for other options.
How much does Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) cost?
To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) (generic)
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) contraindications
Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person shouldnot take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditionsor if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) will not be safe for you to take.
Currently take or have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) within the last 14 days
What are alternatives to Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)?
There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)
Used 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)
$11.72 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
Codeine/guaifenesin
Used for:
Temporarily easily cough from throat or lung irritations
Loosens mucus so that its easier to cough up
$6.11 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
Benzonatate (Tessalon Perles)
Used for:
Cough in people ages 10 years and older
$12.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
What is the latest news about Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan)?
Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan) images
This medicine is White And Yellow, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "Mucinex", "Adams", And "600".White And Yellow Oval Mucinex, Adams, And 600 - Mucinex DM 30mg-600mg Extended-Release Tablet
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References
starsBest studies we found
Albrecht, H. H., et al. (2017). Role of guaifenesin in the management of chronic bronchitis and upper respiratory tract infections. Multidisciplinary Respiratory Medicine.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Sore throat.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Put your medicines up and away and out of sight.
View All References (16)
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Dolansky, G., et al. (2008). What is the evidence for the safety and efficacy of over-the-counter cough and cold preparations for children younger than six years of age? Paediatrics & Child Health.
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Inc. (2023). Guaifenesin and dextromethorphan HBR tablet, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.
Haleon US Holdings LLC. (2024). Childrens Robitussin cough and chest congestion DM- dextromethorphan hydrobromide and guaifenesin liquid [package insert]. DailyMed.
Journey, J. D., et al. (2023). Dextromethorphan toxicity. StatPearls.
Kroger Company. (2022). Guaifenesin and dextromethorphan HBR- guaifenesin and dextromethorphan hbr tablet, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.
May, M. E. (n.d.). Dextromethorphan abuse. Poison Control.
National Human Genome Research Institute. (2014). About phenylketonuria.
Oh, S. R., et al. (2023). Dextromethorphan. StatPearls.
Proctor & Gamble. (n.d.). Powerful max strength symptom relief.
RB Health (US) LLC. (2022). Mucinex childrens cough and chest congestion mini-melts orange creme- dextromethorphan hydrobromide and guaifenesin granule [package insert]. DailyMed.
RB Health (US) LLC. (2022). Mucinex DM- guaifenesin and dextromethorphan hydrobromide tablet, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.
RB Health (US) LLC. (2023). Mucinex DM maximum strength- guaifenesin and dextromethorphan hydrobromide tablet, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.
Siu, A., et al. (2007). Dextromethorphan: A review of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist in the management of pain. Central Nervous System Drug Reviews.
Spangler, D. C., et al. (2016). Dextromethorphan: A case study on addressing abuse of a safe and effective drug. Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy.
Thomas, S. J., et al. (2015). Combination therapy with monoamine oxidase inhibitors and other antidepressants or stimulants: Strategies for the management of treatment-resistant depression. Reviews of Therapeutics.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Should you give kids medicine for coughs and colds?
GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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