Both products have the active ingredient guaifenesin, which loosensphlegmand makes it easier to cough out.
This article discusses the similarities and differences between Mucinex D and Mucinex DM.
Mucinex D contains guaifenesin, anexpectorant, and pseudoephedrine, a nasaldecongestant.
Getty Images / AleksandarGeorgiev
Mucinex DM also contains guaifenesin, an expectorant, and dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant, in each tablet.
Dosage Strengths and Forms
Mucinex D is available as an oral extended-release (ER) tablet.
Because of its design, tablets must not be cut, crushed, or chewed.
Mucinex DM is available as an oral ER tablet.
It is marketed under Mucinex Fast-Max DM in cherry and honeyberry flavors.
Each 20 milliliter contains 400 milligrams of guaifenesin and 20 milligrams of dextromethorphan.
Side effects can occur, although you may not have any.
MAOIs can also interact with the dextromethorphan in Mucinex DM, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome.
Safety Warnings
While generally safe, these medications may not be appropriate in some situations.
Due to limited research, the safety of these products when used during pregnancy has not been established.
Long-term abuse is associated with severe addiction.
The use of high doses in combination withalcoholor other drugs is particularly dangerous, with deaths reported.
Which One Is Right for You?
If you are experiencing a cough, deciding between Mucinex D and Mucinex DM may be a tough choice.
Since these products contain guaifenesin, they help reduce chest congestion to move phlegm upwards and out.
Mucinex D is appropriate forproductive coughswith sinus congestion or a stuffy nose.
Summary
Mucinex D and Mucinex DM are cough and cold products containing guaifenesin to loosen phlegm.
Dextromethorphana cough suppressantcan cause hallucinations and euphoria at high doses, which increases the risk of abuse and dependence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, generic versions of both medications exist.
The generic version of Mucinex D is pseudoephedrine/guaifenesin, and the generic version of Mucinex DM is dextromethorphan/guaifenesin.
Mucinex DM contains two medications: Anexpectorantand acough suppressant.
Mucinex DM can be taken either in the daytime or at nighttime.
It will help reduce chest congestion and suppress cough at night, allowing for restful sleep.
Mucinex D contains anexpectorantand adecongestant.
The decongestant component can cause sleep disturbances/insomnia and is therefore not advised to be used at night.
A product with DM at the end, such as Mucinex DM or Robitussin DM, contains dextromethorphan.
DailyMed.Label: Mucinex DM- guaifenesin and dextromethorphan hydrobromide tablet, extended release.
DailyMed.Mucinex Fast-Max DM Max- dextromethorphan hydrobromide and guaifenesin solution.
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