Can You Take Mucinex And Robitussin Together?

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not Mucinex (guaifenesin) can safely be taken with Robitussin (dextromethorphan).

Question

Can you take Mucinex With Robitussin?

Asked by Russell On Aug 30, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Aug 30, 2022
Last updated Apr 26, 2024

Key points

  • Mucinex contains the active ingredient guaifenesin, which is safe to take with Robitussin that contains dextromethorphan.
  • Watch out for over-the-counter products that contain multiple ingredients to avoid taking two doses of the same drug.

Answer

Mucinex (guaifenesin) can safely be taken with Robitussin (dextromethorphan) and there is no interaction between the two medications. However, Robitussin is a brand name that is used for a variety of products, all of which contain different ingredients. It is important to look at the drug label of the product you are taking to confirm the ingredients.

Taking Mucinex With Robitussin

As stated above, Mucinex is safe to take with plain Robitussin that contains dextromethorphan. Many Robitussin products contain guaifenesin, the same active ingredient in Mucinex.

It is important not to combine Mucinex with a Robitussin product that already contains guaifenesin. Below, we list common Robitussin brand name products and their ingredients.

Robitussin Ingredients

  • Dextromethorphan

Mucinex is safe to take with original Robitussin.

Robitussin Maximum Strength Cough + Chest Congestion DM Ingredients

  • Dextromethorphan
  • Guaifenesin

As guaifenesin is already contained in this Robitussin product, Mucinex should not be taken with it.

Robitussin Maximum Strength Nighttime Cough DM

  • Dextromethorphan
  • Doxylamine

Mucinex is safe to take with Robitussin Maximum Strength Nighttime Cough DM.

Robitussin 12-Hour Cough Relief

  • Dextromethorphan

Mucinex is safe to take with Robitussin 12-Hour Cough Relief.

Robitussin Cough + Chest Congestion DM

  • Dextromethorphan
  • Guaifenesin

As guaifenesin is already contained in this Robitussin product, Mucinex should not be taken with it.

Robitussin Multi-Symptom Cold CF

  • Dextromethorphan
  • Guaifenesin
  • Phenylephrine

As guaifenesin is already contained in this Robitussin product, Mucinex should not be taken with it.

Robitussin Maximum Strength Severe Multi-Symptom Cough Cold + Flu

  • Dextromethorphan
  • Guaifenesin
  • Phenylephrine
  • Acetaminophen

As guaifenesin is already contained in this Robitussin product, Mucinex should not be taken with it.

Summary

There is no interaction between Mucinex (guaifenesin) and original Robitussin. They are safe to take together. However, it is important to be aware that the Robitussin name is used in a variety of products, all of which contain different ingredients. Be sure to look at the drug facts label of the product you are purchasing.

Final Words

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References

About the Pharmacist

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

Dr. Brian has been practicing pharmacy for over 13 years and has wide-ranging experiences in many different areas of the profession. From retail, clinical, program development, and administrative responsibilities, he's your knowledgeable and go-to source for all your pharmacy and medication-related questions! Dr. Brian Staiger also has herbalist training and educational certificates in the field of medical ethnobotany. Feel free to send him an email at [email protected]! You can also connect with Dr. Brian Staiger on LinkedIn.

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