Mucinex is an over-the-counter medication that can be used to alleviate chest congestion. This medication contains the active ingredient guaifenesin, an expectorant that works by decreasing the thickness of chest mucus. Certain people should not take Mucinex. People who have questions regarding Mucinex contraindications should consult a physician.
Guaifenesin Hypersensitivity
Patients who are allergic or hypersensitive to guaifenesin should not take Mucinex, PDRHealth reports. Treatment with this medication can cause a severe allergic reaction in hypersensitive patients.
Under Age Two
Pediatric patients under the age of two should not be treated with Mucinex unless otherwise recommended by a doctor, Drugs.com warns. The effects of this medication in children in this age group have not been clinically evaluated.
Under Age 12 with Chronic Cough
Use of Mucinex in children under age 12 is cautioned. Children in this age group who have chronic cough symptoms or produce excessive amounts of mucus should be evaluated by a medical professional before taking Mucinex, Drugs.com advises.
Pregnancy
Guaifenesin has been assigned to pregnancy category C by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, MIMS warns. Consequently, women who are pregnant should not take Mucinex unless otherwise directed by a medical professional. The safety of this medication has not been evaluated in pregnant women.
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