Patients who experience persistent cough symptoms may find relief through the use of an over-the-counter medication called Mucinex. Mucinex contains guaifenesin, an active ingredient that helps clear chest congestion by making chest mucus thinner and easier to expel from the lungs. This medication is not an appropirate form of treatment for all patients however, and patients should discuss the contraindications of Mucinex with a medical professional prior to beginning treatment.
Children 12 Years Old and Younger
Mucinex should not be used to treat children between the ages of two and 12 who have chronic cough symptoms until they are evaluated by a doctor, Drugs.com reports. Children in this age group may have alternate medical problems, such as asthma, that may be exacerbated or masked following treatment with Mucinex.
Infants and toddlers younger than age two should not be given Mucinex. The safety and efficacy of this medication have not been clinically established in children within this age group, RxList explains.
Guaifenesin Allergy
A patient with a known allergy to guaifenesin should not receive treatment with Mucinex, Drugs.com explains. Improper use of this medication by a hypersensitive patient can result in a life-threatening anaphylactic or allergic reaction.
Pregnant or Nursing Women
Pregnant or nursing mothers should avoid using Mucinex unless directed by a doctor. Health professionals with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have assigned this medication to Pregnancy Category C, meaning use of this medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding may cause fetal or infant medical complications.
