Compare Mucinex vs. Mucinex D

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

Over-the-counter

Over-the-counter

Breaks up mucus that causes cough.

Mucinex (Guaifenesin) is a useful medicine for loosening congestion in your chest and throat, and it lasts longer than other guaifenesin products.

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3.8/ 5 average rating with 902 reviewsforMucinex

Breaks up mucus and relieves congestion.

Mucinex D (Guaifenesin / Pseudoephedrine) is good if you have a stuffy nose and a cough with mucus, but it could keep you up at night.

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3.8/ 5 average rating with 1249 reviewsforMucinex D

Upsides

Mucinex (Guaifenesin) reduces the thickness and amount of mucus in your throat and chest.
Lasts longer than some other products that contain guaifenesin, such as Robitussin, because it's an extended-release form.
It’s available at the drugstore either by itself or in combination with other medications to treat cold and flu symptoms.
Available in liquid and tablet forms.
Mucinex (Guaifenesin) is alcohol- and sugar-free.

Mucinex D (Guaifenesin / Pseudoephedrine) is a combination medicine that relieves multiple cold symptoms. It's good to use if you have sinus and chest congestion.
Helps loosen the mucus in your airways so that you can cough it up more easily.
Works well to clear nasal congestion and help you breathe better.

Downsides

Mucinex (Guaifenesin) is more expensive than other medications that treat congestion.
You need to drink a lot of fluids while taking this medication or it won't work as well.
Mucinex (Guaifenesin) isn’t useful if you have a dry cough.
Can cause nausea, headache, and an upset stomach.

Pseudoephedrine, the decongestant in Mucinex D (Guaifenesin / Pseudoephedrine), can make your heart race or make you feel anxious and restless.
Doesn't work as well if you use it for more than 4 days at a time.
Although you don't need a prescription to get Mucinex D (Guaifenesin / Pseudoephedrine), you need to show a photo ID to buy it in the drugstore.
Mucinex D (Guaifenesin / Pseudoephedrine) isn’t useful if you have a dry cough.

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