Which Mucinex Is Best For High Blood Pressure?

Introduction

What is Mucinex?

Mucinex is a common over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicine that increases mucus production in the major air passages of the lungs (bronchi), to facilitate mucus removal (expectoration)  through coughing. Mucinex is the brand name for Guaifenesin, which is one of the legally marketed expectorants in the United States, and is used to treat wet coughs and chest congestion caused by the common cold.^{1 2}

Mucinex and Mucinex DM

These two drugs are often confused with each other, and although they are quite similar, there is a slight difference: 

• Mucinex: is an expectorant and mucolytic.
• Mucinex DM: is an expectorant and cough reliever.³

Active ingredients

Although both Mucinex and Mucinex DM have guaifenesin as an active ingredient, Mucinex DM uniquely has an extra active ingredient: Dextromethorphan.

The main role of  guaifenesin is to increase the frequency of coughing by thinning the mucus, while the ingredient Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant synthesized drug, acting on the brain center to relieve the cough.³

How does it work?

In simple words, guaifenesin acts by stimulating the parasympathetic reflexes, which in turn causes glandular hypersecretion, triggering the coughing reflex. ² Coughing up the secretions out of your lungs will help relieve the symptoms of heaviness in your chest.

Mucinex and high blood pressure

Most of the common cold drugs are a bit of concern for high blood pressure patients. Certainly, some of the over-the-counter drugs can affect your blood pressure because they might contain some ingredients such as pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, phenylephrine, naphazoline, and oxymetazoline.

On the other hand, Mucinex has not been reported to increase blood pressure, because it only contains guaifenesin.⁴

Different forms of Mucinex

Mucinex is present in the market in different forms:-

1. Immediate-release formulation 
2. Extended-release formulation 

These formulations can be found in syrup or liquid form.

Tablets

Guaifenesin tablet forms have different dosages and could be taken every 4 or 12 hours depending on the formulation. For more information, see the dosage information section.²

Liquid

Mucinex syrup forms are taken every 4 hours in children aged 2 to 12. The doses ranges from  50 to 200 mg. Please check your doctor before usage, as restrictions on these drugs for certain age groups may apply in some countries..²

Uses of Mucinex

The treatment of mucus-related symptoms in acute upper respiratory tract infections (such as acute bronchitis and the common cold), rhinosinusitis, and stable chronic bronchitis with guaifenesin is thought to be both safe and effective.²

Side effects of Mucinex

Guaifenesin has generally been shown to have few side effects. Dizziness, headaches, and gastrointestinal disturbances are often reported side effects of the medication when taken in large doses.²

The rare reports of major adverse effects associated with the use of guaifenesin that have been reported have largely dealt with overdoses and usage in multi-drug combinations for various cough and cold purposes.²

Interactions

Mucinex can sometimes interact with other types of medications. Establish an up-to-date list of all your medications, including supplements, and maintain contact with your primary care physician whenever there are changes.⁶

When Mucinex DM is combined with cyclobenzaprine, because it contains Dextromethorphan, it increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a rare but serious condition that can cause confusion, hallucination, seizure, extreme changes in blood pressure, increased heart rate, fever, excessive sweating, shivering or shaking, blurred vision, muscle spasm or stiffness, tremor, lack of coordination, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases can lead to comas and even death. If you experience these symptoms while taking the medications, you should seek immediate medical attention.⁶

If you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor.

During pregnancy or breastfeeding

Recent studies have not shown clear evidence for avoiding Mucinex or Mucinex DM during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Thus, apply caution when using  guaifenesin during pregnancy, and always consult with a healthcare professional before usage.⁶

Dosage information

There are two forms of Mucinex: immediate-release and extended-release. The table below shows the comparison of Mucinex doses relative to the formulation and population between the American and Canadian systems.²

Formulation:

Immediate-release - Children – 2 to <6 years

• Recommended Doses: US: 50–100 mg up to 4-hourly; max 600 mg/day
• Canada: Not recommended

Immediate-release - Children – 6 to <12 years

• Recommended Doses: US: 100–200 mg up to 4-hourly; max 1200 mg/day
• Canada: Not recommended

Immediate-release - Adults and children 12 years and older

• Recommended Doses: US: 200–400 mg up to 4-hourly; max 2400 mg/day
• Canada: 200–400 mg up to 6-hourly; max 1600 mg/day

Extended-release - Adults and children 12 years and older

• Recommended Doses: US: 600–1200 mg up to 12-hourly; max 2400 mg/day
• Canada: 600 mg (1 tablet) up to 12-hourly; max 1200 mg/day (2 tablets)

When to get medical advice

Mild itching to severe anaphylactic responses are all possible allergic reactions. Get immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms of a Mucinex allergy: hives, breathing difficulties, face, lip, tongue, or neck swelling.⁷

Summary

Mucinex is a drug used for upper respiratory tract infections to enhance mucus excretions and in turn produce a productive cough. In general, this drug is safe to use for high blood pressure patients; However , it should be used cautiously in individuals who are pregnant and breastfeeding. Side effects are minimal, but allergies to this drug can occur. You should seek medical help if you experience any allergy symptoms.