Taking Mucinex With Sudafed

Answer

Yes, you can safely take Mucinex (guaifenesin) with Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) as there is no interaction between them. In fact, both drugs can be found combined in a single product, Mucinex-D, which is available behind the pharmacy counter.

It is important to note that there are several Mucinex products on the market. They include:

• Mucinex (guaifenesin)
• Mucinex DM (guaifenesin; dextromethorphan) 
• Mucinex D (guaifenesin; pseudoephedrine) 
• Mucinex Fast-Max Severe Congestion And Cough (guaifenesin; dextromethorphan; phenylephrine)
• Mucinex Fast-Max Cold, Flu And Sore Throat Congestion And Cough (guaifenesin; acetaminophen; dextromethorphan; phenylephrine)
• Mucinex Sinus-Max (guaifenesin; acetaminophen; phenylephrine)

You don't want to combine Sudafed with a Mucinex product that already contains a decongestant. The two decongestants to avoid doubling up on are:

• Pseudoephedrine
• Phenylephrine

So, to be specific, Sudafed is safe to take with only two Mucinex products:

• Mucinex (guaifenesin)
• Mucinex DM (guaifenesin; dextromethorphan)

All other Mucinex products already contain a decongestant. Taking too high of a dose of a decongestant can increase the risk of side effects, such as:

• Increased blood pressure
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Increased heart rate
• Restlessness

The next sections provide some additional information regarding guaifenesin, pseudoephedrine, and phenylephrine.

About Guaifenesin

Guaifenesin is an oral expectorant, commonly used to treat cough due to colds and minor upper respiratory infections. It helps to loosen and thin mucus and bronchial secretions by reducing both their viscosity and adhesiveness. This makes secretions easier to expectorate and remove.

Guaifenesin is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter products and is available in both immediate and extended-release formulations.

About Pseudoephedrine

Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is a nasal decongestant that is also used to relieve sinus pressure in adults and children 4 years of age and older. Immediate release products work quickly, within 15-30 minutes. The typical duration of action is 4-6 hours although 12 and 24-hour formulations are also available.

Unlike many nasal decongestant sprays (e.g. Afrin), Sudafed does not typically cause rebound congestion and can often be safely taken for more than 3 days.

As a result of the 2005 Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act, pseudoephedrine must be locked securely or stored behind the pharmacy counter.

About Phenylephrine

Phenylephrine is a nasal decongestant available over the counter. It is available as a single ingredient (phenylephrine) or in combination with other medications in various cough/cold products.

It works to reduce congestion by constricting the blood vessels in the nose, reducing inflammation, and opening the airways.

It may be taken with or without meals and reaches peak concentrations about 1-2 hours after taking by mouth. The duration of action of the drug is around 4 to 6 hours.

Unlike pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine does not need to be stored behind the pharmacy counter.