Peter asked
I am on Tamiflu as are my two children. Can we use Mucinex?
At a glance
- There is no known drug interaction between Tamiflu and Mucinex.
Answer
Mucinex (guaifenesin) may safely be taken with Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate. There is no known interaction between the two medications.
In fact, Mucinex may help provide some relief of flu symptoms such as chest congestion. It can be a beneficial add-on medication to Tamiflu since Tamiflu is an antiviral that doesn't directly help to reduce flu symptoms...it just (hopefully) shortens flu duration and overall severity.
About The Drugs
Tamiflu is an antiviral prescription medication and is available in both capsules and as a liquid suspension (which is the typical dosage form prescribed for children). Tamiflu is generally very well tolerated and has few drug interactions. It may be taken with or without food but food is generally recommended to decrease the risk of gastrointestinal related side effects.
As Tamiflu treats confirmed and suspected flu infections, it is common for individuals to have a variety of flu-related symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Fever
- Muscle soreness
- Nasal congestion
- Chest congestion
Individuals often turn to over the counter medication to help with the symptoms. As mentioned above, Tamiflu has few drug interactions and most over the counter cough/cold medications are safe to take with it, including Mucinex.
Mucinex contains the active ingredient guaifenesin. It acts as an expectorant and helps to thin and clear viscous mucus secretions. It is safe and beneficial medication to help relieve symptoms of the flu while taking Tamiflu.
References
- Tamiflu Prescribing Information. Gene
- Guaifenesin Monograph. ClinicalKey (Subscription Required)
