Compare Mucinex vs. Mucinex DM

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

Mucinex (Guaifenesin)

Over-the-counter

Mucinex Dm (Dextromethorphan / Guaifenesin)

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 cough.

Mucinex Dm (Dextromethorphan / Guaifenesin) is okay for loosening congestion in your chest and throat, but it could prevent you from coughing the mucus up. It comes as an extended-release tablet and a short-acting liquid.

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3.9/ 5 average rating with 15 reviewsforMucinex DM

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 Dm (Dextromethorphan / Guaifenesin) is a combination medicine that relieves multiple cold symptoms. It's good to use if you have chest congestion and a cough.
Helps loosen the mucus and phlegm that builds up in productive and wet coughs.
The extended release version of Mucinex DM lasts up to 12 hours.

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.

Mucinex Dm (Dextromethorphan / Guaifenesin) isn’t useful if you have a dry cough without mucus or phlegm.
The two medications in this product could potentially work against each other. Guaifenesin makes mucus easier to cough up, while dextromethorphan (the "DM" in Mucinex Dm (Dextromethorphan / Guaifenesin)) stops you from coughing.
Can cause sleepiness, dizziness, and an upset stomach.

Used for