Mucinex Side Effects
Summary
Mucinex is a medication used to treat coughing and congestion. The most common side effects of Mucinex include; dizziness, upset stomach, drowsiness, diarrhea, and nausea. These effects are typically mild and short lived however; if they persist or become bothersome notify your health care provider.
Common Mucinex Side Effects
The most commonly reported Mucinex side effects include the following:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
Though the side effects listed above have been reported, Mucinex is generally well tolerated. If any of common side effects become worrisome to you, contact your health care provider.
Serious Mucinex Side Effects
An allergic reaction can occur with Mucinex. If you experience any of the following symptoms indicating an allergic reaction get emergency medical help immediately.
- Swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue
- Breathing problems
- Tightness of the chest
- Rash or hives
Other guaifenesin side effects can occur that are not indicative of an allergic reaction but are still very serious. If you experience any of following side effects notify your doctor immediately.
- Increased heart rate
- Hypertension
- Irregular heartbeat
- Lightheadedness
- Seizures
- Extreme dizziness
- Difficulty urinating
Types of Cough
If a cough is accompanied by excessive mucus or if it occurs as a result of smoking, emphysema, or bronchitis, you should talk to your doctor before taking Mucinex to treat the condition.
Additionally if a cough returns while taking this medication or is accompanied by a persistent headache, fever, or rash; notify your doctor right away as these symptoms could be indicative of a more serious condition. Mucinex is not to be used in treating the long term coughing associated with certain medical conditions.
Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Children
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult with their doctor before taking Mucinex; effects of this medication on the fetus or on a breastfeeding child are unknown at this time. Mucinex has been placed in pregnancy category C, which means there are no adequate studies regarding side effects on pregnancy or breastfeeding; doctors usually advise you weigh the potential benefits against the risks for drugs of this type. Children under the age of 12 should not use Mucinex as it has the potential to invoke life threatening side effects.
Existing Medical Conditions
If you have diabetes or liver disease, caution is advised while taking Mucinex as the liquid form contains sugar and alcohol; it may be necessary to avoid taking Mucinex if you have diabetes or liver conditions. Another condition which may interfere with Mucinex is Phenylketonuria or any other condition requiring a limited consumption of aspartame which is found in Mucinex.
Phenylketonuria is a genetic disorder in which a mutation occurs in the gene responsible for metabolizing the amino acid phenylalanine; maintaining a strict diet and avoiding this acid allows an individual to successfully manage this condition. Mucinex should be avoided because several forms of it may contain aspartame, an artificial sweetener consisting of two amino acids; phenylalanine and aspartic acid. Individuals with this condition should avoid taking Mucinex.
Other Medications
Currently there are no known drug interactions for Mucinex; however, other inactive ingredients in this medication could cause a drug interaction to occur in some individuals. It is important to avoid taking other products containing guaifenesin at the same time as Mucinex as it could lead to an accidental overdose. There is also a potential for drug interactions to occur when herbal supplements are taken with this medication as much remains unknown about these types of supplements; a physician should be notified of all medications that you are taking prior to administering Mucinex.
Mucinex is a medication used to treat the coughing associated with the common cold or respiratory infections; it is available in several forms, over the counter or by prescription. Though it is generally well tolerated, a physician should be notified immediately if any serious side effects occur. Children under age 12 should not use this medication and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to a health care provider before taking it.
