This medication is used for the temporary relief of coughs caused by the common cold, bronchitis, and other breathing illnesses. This product is usually not used for ongoing cough from smoking or long-term breathing problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema) unless directed by your doctor. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier.

If you are self-treating with this medication, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to be sure it is right for you. (See also Precautions section.)

Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. This product (sustained-release) is not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.

These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold. To decrease the risk for side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

Indications and Usage
Mucinex is one of many brand names for guarifenesin. Other brand names include Bidex, diabetic Tussin, Ganidin NR, Glytuss, Guaiatussin, Giacacough, Guiatuss, Halotussin, Humibid E, Hytuss, lophen NR, Lotussin, Mallotuss, Mastussin, Miltuss EX, Mytussin, Organ-I NR, Organidin NR, Phanasin, Q-Tussin, Ri-Tussin, Robitussin, Scot-Tussin, Siltussin SA and Tussin. These medications are prescribed to help relieve chest congestion. This medication is available in capsule, tablet, extended release tablet, granules and syrup. Mucinex is also available in many combination products to help relieve other cold symptoms such as antihistamines or cough suppressants.

Extended release tablets should be taken with food every twelve hours and taken with a full glass of water. Most other preparations can be taken without food every 4 hours, or as needed based on the severity of your symptoms. If you are using the liquid form of Mucinex, use the measuring cup which came with your dose to ensure proper dosing. You can ask your pharmacist for a replacement if your dose did not come with a measuring cup. Avoid using more than one over the counter cold product at the same time as this could lead to an overdose. Because Mucinex has such a variety of preparations, you should take care to read all of the instructions so ensure that you are taking the proper dose, especially when giving this medication to children.

Most forms of Mucinex are available over the counter. Because you will be taking this medication without supervision it is important to take care to monitor your use and take the medication the way it has been directed. Make note of any contact information on the package that you can call to ask questions about dosing or safety information. If you are considering giving Mucinex to a child, talk with your doctor about the potential risk for side effects that could occur.

How to use Mucinex Oral
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor, usually every 12 hours with a full glass of water. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not take more than 2400 milligrams in 24 hours. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed.

Do not crush or chew this medication. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.

Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Fluids will help to break up mucus and clear congestion.

Tell your doctor if your condition returns, or if it is accompanied by fever, severe sore throat, rash, persistent headache, or if it persists or worsens after 7 days. These may be signs of a serious medical problem. Seek immediate medical attention if you think you may have a serious medical problem.