Richie asked
Can you take Mucinex and Mucinex DM together?
Answer
No, Mucinex and Mucinex DM should not be taken together.
Both Mucinex and Mucinex DM contain the active ingredient guaifenesin. While guaifenesin is the only active ingredient in the Mucinex, Mucinex DM contains both guaifenesin and dextromethorphan.
As Mucinex and Mucinex DM contain the same ingredient (guaifenesin), they should not be taken together and you should choose the best product for your specific symptoms.
As mentioned, Mucinex contains solely guaifenesin as its active ingredient. It works by loosening and thinning mucus/bronchial secretion. Due to the reduced thickness and viscosity of these sections, our bodies more effectively remove them from the airways. Often times, Mucinex will change a unproductive cough to a productive one. Mucinex is the good product to use if you have a dry, unproductive cough but are having problems with chest congestion or are unable to remove airway mucus.
Mucinex DM contains dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant, as an added ingredient. Both ingredients (guaifenesin & dextromethorphan) work together to suppress cough. Mucinex DM is a good choice for post nasal drip and in situations where you have excessive coughing and throat irritation.
To reiterate, you should not take Mucinex and Mucinex DM together since they contain the same active ingredient. You should select one or the other based on your symptoms.