From the FDA Drug Label
DIRECTIONS Follow dosage below or use as directed by a physician. do not take more than 6 doses in any 24-hour period. age dose adults and children 12 years and over10 to 20 mL (2 to 4 teaspoonfuls) every 4 hours The recommended dosage of Mucinex (Guaifenesin) for treating chest congestion in adults is 10 to 20 mL (2 to 4 teaspoonfuls) every 4 hours, with a maximum of 6 doses in 24 hours 1.
From the Research
The recommended dosage of Mucinex (guaifenesin) for adults with chest congestion is 1200 mg every 12 hours, as demonstrated in a recent study 2. This dosage is based on the extended-release formulation of guaifenesin, which has been shown to be well-tolerated and effective in treating chest congestion associated with upper respiratory tract infections.
- The medication should be taken with a full glass of water to help thin mucus secretions.
- It's essential to maintain adequate hydration while taking guaifenesin to enhance its mucus-thinning effects.
- If chest congestion persists beyond 7 days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever, rash, persistent headache, or prolonged cough, you should consult a healthcare provider.
- Those with chronic respiratory conditions, kidney disease, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding should speak with their doctor before using Mucinex, as supported by various studies 3, 4. The safety profile of guaifenesin has been well-established, with most adverse events being mild in severity, as reported in a study published in 2019 2. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with guaifenesin, particularly in cases of overdose, as highlighted in a case study from 2013 5. Additionally, some studies have raised questions about the effectiveness of guaifenesin in treating acute respiratory tract infections, with one study finding no significant difference in sputum volume or properties between guaifenesin and placebo groups 6. Despite these findings, guaifenesin remains a commonly used expectorant for the treatment of mucus-related symptoms in acute upper respiratory tract infections and stable chronic bronchitis, as discussed in a comprehensive review published in 2019 4.