Jess84 asked
Will Mucinex ER make you have hot flashes?
Answer
Mucinex contains the active ingredient guaifenesin in a 12 hour extended release (ER) tablet. Mucinex is also available in combination with dextromethorphan, as Mucinex DM.
Mucinex Hot Flashes
Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to treat dry, unproductive coughs associated with colds and other upper respiratory infections. Guaifenesin helps to loosen up mucus and make coughing more productive. Common side effects associated with guaifenesin include but are not limited to:
- Nausea
- Rash
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Mucinex is not known to cause hot flashes in individuals and the side effect is not listed in the prescribing information for products containing the active ingredient, guaifenesin.
The FAERS (FDA Adverse Event Reporting System) has very limited submissions that relate to hot flashes and it appears unlikely that the use of Mucinex will cause hot flashes for most individuals.
Mucinex DM Hot Flashes
Dextromethorphan, which is contained in Mucinex DM products, is an anti-tussive used in the treatment of cough associated with cold and other upper respiratory infections and well as COPD. Common side effects of dextromethorphan include but are not limited to:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Impaired coordination
- Slurred speech
- Fatigue
- Nausea
If you are taking Mucinex DM, there is a small, but serious risk of serotonin syndrome if it is taken in combination with drugs that affect serotonin, such as SSRI antidepressants.
Serotonin syndrome is the name given to a certain group of symptoms that can occur with the use of serotonergic drugs. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and include but are not limited to the following:
- Hyperthermia/heavy sweating
- Shaking/tremors
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Agitation
- Delirium
- Confusion
As noted above, symptoms of serotonin syndrome include hyperthermia and excessive sweating. This may or may not be responsible for "hot flashes" experienced while taking Mucinex DM, and the risk increases if using Mucinex DM with other serotonergic drugs.
If you think you may be experiencing the symptoms of serotonin syndrome, you should seek medical evaluation as cases of serotonin syndrome are often serious.
Summary
- Mucinex is not associated with hot flashes and the side effects is listed very rarely in the The FAERS (FDA Adverse Event Reporting System).
- Mucinex DM contains dextromethorphan, which could potentially increase serotonin levels to dangerous levels if taken with other serotonergic drugs. Excess serotonin levels are associated with symptoms of hot flashes such as sweating and hyperthermia.
