Does Benylin Mucus Cough Max Contain Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)?
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not a particular Benylin product contains paracetamol (acetaminophen).
Does BENYLIN® Mucus Cough Max Honey and Lemon contain paracetamol?
Dec 20, 2022- Benylin Mucus Cough Max Honey & Lemon does not contain paracetamol or acetaminophen.
- This product contains only guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps thin mucus and makes it easier to cough up.
- Other Benylin products may have different ingredients, so always check the label on the specific product you are using.
Answer
Thanks so much for reaching out!
I am a United States based pharmacist, so I had to do a little research since Benylin is a brand name that is only available in the UK.
I did find the product you are asking about (BENYLIN® Mucus Cough Max Honey & Lemon) and can confirm that it does not contain paracetamol (what we call 'acetaminophen' over in the United States), a pain reliever and fever reducing medication.
This product only contains the expectorant guaifenesin. This drug is taken to help clear mucus secretions and chest congestion. It works by thinning out mucus and reducing how adhesive it is, which allows it to be more easily expectorated (i.e., coughed up).
A comparable product in the United States would be Mucinex.
I do want to point out that, as mentioned, Benylin is a brand name and it looks like there are several different Benylin products available, all with different ingredients.
The one you asked about (BENYLIN Mucus Cough Max Honey & Lemon Flavour Syrup) only contains guaifenesin, but always be sure to look at the product labels since other Benylin products will contain different drugs.
Final Words
I hope you found this helpful!
Reach back out anytime.
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Paracetamol
- A medication used to reduce pain and lower fever, also known as acetaminophen in the United States.
- Expectorant
- A type of medication that helps clear mucus and phlegm from the airways by making it thinner and easier to cough up.
- Guaifenesin
- An expectorant drug that thins mucus and reduces its stickiness to help relieve chest congestion.
- Expectorated
- The act of coughing up and clearing mucus or phlegm from the lungs and airways.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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