How long mucinex dm to work

This reaction can be life threatening. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include:. Keep reading: Serotonin syndrome symptoms, treatment, and more ». Also, dextromethorphan, one of the ingredients in Mucinex DM, is a commonly misused drug. It can cause a high or euphoria when used in high doses. It can even cause hallucinations. For the best results:. What side effects can Mucinex DM cause? Learn about the symptoms that Mucinex and NyQuil treat and more to see if one of these drugs is right for your cold or flu.

Learn more about the ways you can treat a stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, at home, including tips on decongestants, humidifiers, and steam remedies. Steam inhalers are used as personal saunas for skin care or supporting respiratory health.

We created a list of steam inhalers to suit your needs. You may have heard that you can sweat out a cold, but is this an effective remedy?

Learn more here. Typically, postnasal drip can be alleviated at home. Try these remedies and OTC products to relieve your symptoms. Salt water gargles are touted as an effective and easy home remedy for a sore throat. We explain why, plus additional benefits.

Can apple cider vinegar be used for colds? We explain the benefits of apple cider vinegar, and what the science says about it treating the common cold. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.

Comparing Mucinex and Mucinex DM. Medically reviewed by Zara Risoldi Cochrane, Pharm. Active ingredients Dosage Side effects Interactions Takeaway We include products we think are useful for our readers. Introduction When you need some help shaking that chest congestion, Mucinex and Mucinex DM are two over-the-counter drugs that might help. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device not a kitchen spoon.

Drink extra fluids to help loosen the congestion and lubricate your throat while you are taking this medicine. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if you have a fever, rash, or headaches. If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time if you have taken this medicine within the past few days.

Since dextromethorphan and guaifenesin is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time. Health Topics. Health Tools. Generic Name: Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. Reviewed: June 23, Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have: a cough with mucus; or asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis.

Side Effects. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have: mood changes; severe headache; or severe dizziness or anxiety, feeling like you might pass out;. Common side effects may include: dizziness, drowsiness; sleep problems insomnia ; diarrhea; or feeling nervous, restless, anxious, or irritable;. Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects. You may need to shake the liquid before you measure a dose. You should talk to your healthcare provider before taking this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have kidney or liver disease, or if your cough may be caused by illness other than an upper respiratory infection or allergies such as emphysema or COPD.

Guaifenesin is generally well tolerated and considered safe to use, but like all medication may cause side effects. The most common side effects associated with this medication are:. Less common side effects of this medication include but are not limited to:. You should discontinue this medication and seek emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction to this medication which could include:. You should also contact your healthcare provider if your cough persists longer than 7 days or if it is accompanied by a fever that does not go away.

Mucinex has little evidence to suggest that it has a strong effect to help you clear secretions. Some of the combinations listed above also are counter-intuitive. For instance, Mucinex DM has a cough suppressant, when you should be trying to thin your secretions and get rid of the excess mucus by coughing. Caution should always be used when taking combinations of medications that may reduce the efficacy of the other medication. Staying properly hydrated with water is an important factor in helping to reduce the frequency of having thick secretions which are then difficult to cough up.

There are many other medications that can help, but they are typically reserved for chronic issues related to cystic fibrosis, chronic COPD, and other respiratory conditions. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth. At any time, you can update your settings through the "EU Privacy" link at the bottom of any page.

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