Mucinex DM is a medication used to treat a cough and chest congestion. According to Drugs.com, it is a combination of guaifenesin and dextromethorphan. Dextromethorphan acts to suppress your cough and guaifenesin breaks up the congestion in your chest. Mucinex DM is available in liquid form and as an extended-release tablet. You should take this medication as your doctor instructs.
Frequent Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Mucinex DM's most common side effects include dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Other frequent side effects also include stomach pain and headaches. Discontinue Mucinex and call your doctor if these symptoms remain for three days or more. If your dizziness leads to unsteadiness, you may fall and injure yourself. Persistent nausea and vomiting can dehydrate you and deplete you of essential electrolytes (minerals) such as potassium. Persistent stomach pain and headaches can wreak havoc on your life and become extremely bothersome.
Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com states that Mucinex DM's serious side effects can include slow breathing, anxiety or restlessness. You may also experience nervousness, extreme dizziness, confusion and hallucinations. Go to the emergency room when you experience these symptoms.
Additional Concerns
You should avoid Mucinex DM if you are allergic to either dextromethorphan or guaifenesin. Drugs.com states that serious side effects may include difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of your face, lips and throat.
Mucinex DM can also slow your reactions and cause you to be drowsy. Avoid driving or taking part in activities that require you to be alert.
Drugs.com recommends that you not combine Mucinex DM with alcohol and such stimulants as caffeine, diet pills and medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This mixture can increase your risk of suffering from Mucinex DM's side effects.
Dextromethorphan and guaifensin are contained in many other cold and cough medications, says Drugs.com. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your medications to prevent a potential overdose. Symptoms of a Mucinex DM overdose include nervousness and restlessness.
According to MedlinePlus, you should not take such medications as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), phenilzine and tranylcypromine. Other drugs to avoid include celecoxib, darifinacin and cinacalcet says Drugs.com. This combination can lead to serious drug interactions and result in dangerous side effects. Talk to your physician to find out if your current medications can interact with Mucinex DM.
