They work differently in the body due to their active ingredients.
Robitussin contains dextromethorphan and guaifenesin as its active ingredients.
Dextromethorphan works as an antitussive(cough suppressant).
Getty Images /Smith Collection/Gado/ Contributor
This works by reducing your urge to cough.
This makes it easier for you to cough upphlegm(sputum).
It is available OTC in various products, including:
Mucinex works as an expectorant.
It thins and loosens the mucus in the lungs and throat to make it easier to cough up phlegm.
Unlike Robitussin, Mucinex contains only one active ingredient: guaifenesin.
Which Is Better: Mucinex or Robitussin?
Robitussin and Mucinex are both effective at relieving cough and congestion symptoms.
However, they will not treat the underlying cause of the cough.
Mucinex contains guaifenesin, an expectorant, which thins and loosens mucus.
This is most helpful if you have a productive cough.
A productive cough is one that brings up mucus.
Mucinex thins and loosens the mucus to help push it upward and out.
Robitussin also contains the ingredient dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant.
A dry cough does not produce or bring up mucus.
While taking Robitussin or Mucinex, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Fluids can help loosen mucus or phlegm in your lungs and clear up congestion.
Side Effects
Both Robitussin and Mucinex share similar side effects.
This can increase your risk for abuse and dependence.
Side effects specific to guaifenesin are:
Are Robitussin and Mucinex Safe for Pregnancy?
Robitussin and Mucinex are generally safe to use during pregnancy at standard OTC doses.
check that to read all of the ingredients, especially in combination cough and cold medication products.
Some products may contain alcohol, which should be avoided during pregnancy.
These medicines have different active ingredients: Robitussin contains dextromethorphan, while Mucinex contains guaifenesin.
The author would like to recognize and thank Chinonso Lloyd Paul for contributing to this article.
2017;12:31. doi:10.1186/s40248-017-0113-4
DailyMed.Label: Robitussin 12 Hour Cough Relief- dextromethorphan polistirex suspension, extended release.
DailyMed.Robitussin Maximum Strength Cough Plus Chest Congestion DM- dextromethorphan hydrobromide and guaifenesin capsule, liquid filled.
DailyMed.Label: Robitussin Maximum Strength Cough Plus Chest Congestion DM- dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin solution.
DailyMed.Robitussin Cough Plus Chest Congestion DM- dextromethorphan hydrobromide and guaifenesin solution.
DailyMed.Label: Robitussin Long-Acting Cough Gels- dextromethorphan hydrobromide capsule, liquid filled.
DailyMed.Label: Children’s Robitussin Cough and Chest Congestion DM- dextromethorphan hydrobromide and guaifenesin liquid.
DailyMed.Label: Mucinex- guaifenesin tablet, extended release.
Sharma V, Sharma A, Kumar V, Aggarwal S.Disulfiram-like reaction with ornidazole.Journal of postgraduate medicinevol.
55,4 (2009): 292-3. doi:10.4103/0022-3859.58940
Drug Enforcement Administration.DXM drug fact sheet.
Erebara A, Bozzo P, Einarson A, Koren G.Treating the common cold during pregnancy.Can Fam Physician.
2008;54(5):687-689.
Mother To Baby | Fact Sheets [Internet].
Brentwood (TN): Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS); 1994-.Dextromethorphan.
2007;333(1):53-55. doi:10.1097/00000441-200701000-00007
DailyMed.Label: Solosec- secnidazole granule.
