Mucinex DM Uses, Side Effects & Warnings (2024)

Generic name: dextromethorphan and guaifenesin [DEX-troe-meth-OR-fan-and-gwye-FEN-e-sin]
Brand names: Alka-Seltzer Plus Maximum Strength, Children Giltuss Cough and Chest Congestion, Children's Delsym Cough+Chest Congest DM, Children's Robitussin Cough and Chest, Children's Robitussin Cough and Chest Congestion DM, ... show all 98 brands
Drug class: Upper respiratory combinations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 9, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Mucinex DM?

Mucinex DM is a combination medicine used to treat cough and chest congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

Mucinex DM may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Mucinex DM side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Mucinex DM may cause serious side effects. Stop using Mucinex DM and call your doctor at once if you have:

• mood changes;

• severe headache; or

• severe dizziness or anxiety, feeling like you might pass out.

Common side effects of Mucinex DM may include:

• dizziness, drowsiness;

• sleep problems (insomnia);

• diarrhea; or

• feeling nervous, restless, anxious, or irritable.

  See Also

  Mucinex DM (guaifenesin / dextromethorphan): Uses, Side Effects, Dosage & More - GoodRxMucinex D vs Mucinex DM: What’s the Difference?Mucinex (Dextromethorphan Guaifenesin Bi-Layer Tablets): Side Effects, Uses, Dosage, Interactions, WarningsMucinex DM: Package Insert - Drugs.com

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Do not use this medicine if you are using or if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take Mucinex DM if you are allergic to it.

Do not use Mucinex DM if you are using or if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:

• a cough with mucus; or

• asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis.

This medicine may contain phenylalanine and could be harmful if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take Mucinex DM?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or cough medicine is only for short-term use.

Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice. Follow all directions when giving this medicine to a child. Do not use the medicine to make a child sleepy. Misuse of this medicine may cause death in very young children.

Measure liquid medicine with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

You may need to shake the liquid before you measure a dose. Follow all directions on the label.

Swallow the extended-release tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

Dissolve the effervescent tablets in at least 4 ounces of water. Stir and drink right away. Add more water to the glass, swirl and drink.

Sprinkle the granules directly onto your tongue and swallow right away.

Drink extra fluids to help loosen the congestion and lubricate your throat while you are taking this medicine.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if you have a fever, rash, or headaches.

Follow the storage instructions provided with this medicine. Your pharmacist can provide more information about how to store this medicine.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Mucinex DM is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Mucinex DM?

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how Mucinex DM will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.

What other drugs will affect Mucinex DM?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicines that can cause drowsiness (such as opioid medication, sleep medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures). Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.

Popular FAQ

More FAQ

• I have high blood pressure. Can I take Mucinex DM safely?
• Can I take Claritin with Mucinex DM?

View more FAQ

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circ*mstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 8.04.