Taking Mucinex With Mitral Valve Problem And Several Heart Medications

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses if Mucinex is safe to take with several different medications and prior heart problems.

Question

I am 67 years old female with a heart problem (Mitral valve was replaced in 1997). My medications are warfarin 5mg, carvedilol 6.25 mg, tenofovir 300 mg, furosemide, and levothyroxine 200 mg. To relieve cough and mucus, can I take safely Mucinex 600 mg (guaifenesin) expectorant bi later tablets?

Asked by Pjs On Oct 20, 2022

Answered by
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist Staff

Published Oct 20, 2022
Last updated Apr 15, 2024

Key points

  • Mucinex is not thought to have clinically significant drug interactions.
  • Mucinex is safe to use if you have had a mitral valve replacement.

Answer

Thanks so much for reaching out to us! Mucinex is safe to take in those with a prior mitral valve replacement, and with the medications you listed in your question, which are:

  • Warfarin
  • Carvedilol
  • Tenofovir
  • Furosemide
  • Levothyroxine

In general, Mucinex (guaifenesin) is a very safe medication in terms of both potential drug interactions and side effects.

In fact, most drug resources report that Mucinex has no clinically significant interactions to be concerned about, and only causes mild side effects if they occur at all. These side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

Again, although these side effects can happen, they are quite uncommon at the usual dosages of Mucinex.

Additionally, there is no concern with using Mucinex if you have had a mitral valve replacement or prior heart issues. Mucinex does not raise blood pressure and is not known to increase the risk of any kind of cardiovascular complication.

Mucinex With Levothyroxine

The only thing I'll point out here in your medication list is taking levothyroxine with Mucinex. There is no drug interaction per se between them, but to ensure optimal absorption of your levothyroxine, you want to be sure to take it (levothyroxine) at least 30 minutes before food or other medication.

Taking levothyroxine inconsistently, or with other foods or medications can significantly alter how much you absorb of the drug, which could alter your thyroid levels. Just be sure to separate it from Mucinex.

Final Words

I hope this answer helped and reach back out anytime!

References

  • Guaifenesin Monograph, PubChem
  • Role of guaifenesin in the management of chronic bronchitis and upper respiratory tract infections, PubMed

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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