Recommended Dosage of Mucinex (Guaifenesin) for Chest Congestion
The recommended dose of Mucinex (guaifenesin) for treating chest congestion is 200-400 mg every 4 hours for immediate-release formulations, or 600-1200 mg every 12 hours for extended-release formulations, with a maximum daily dose of 2400 mg. 1, 2
Dosage Forms and Administration
Immediate-Release Formulation
- 100 mg per 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) of liquid formulation 1
- Recommended dosing: 200-400 mg (2-4 teaspoons) every 4 hours 3
- Maximum of 6 doses (2400 mg) in 24 hours 3
Extended-Release Formulation
- Available as 600 mg tablets 2
- Recommended dosing: 1200 mg (two 600 mg tablets) every 12 hours 4
- Extended-release formulation provides convenient 12-hour dosing compared to 4-hour dosing of immediate-release formulation 2
- Can be taken with or without food, though food may delay peak concentration (Tmax) 2
Mechanism of Action
- Guaifenesin acts as an expectorant by loosening mucus in the airways 3
- Makes coughs more productive by improving mucociliary clearance 2
- Helps relieve chest congestion associated with upper respiratory tract infections 4
Clinical Evidence
- Extended-release guaifenesin has been shown to be bioequivalent to corresponding doses of immediate-release guaifenesin 2
- Studies demonstrate that steady-state exposures are equivalent between 1,200 mg extended-release guaifenesin every 12 hours and 400 mg immediate-release guaifenesin every 4 hours 2
- Clinical pharmacology and patient studies support the clinical utility of guaifenesin in respiratory conditions where mucus hypersecretion is prevalent 3
Safety Profile
- Guaifenesin has a well-established and favorable safety and tolerability profile in adult and pediatric populations 3
- In a study of 552 adults with URTI symptoms taking extended-release guaifenesin 1200 mg every 12 hours for 7 days, all adverse events were mild in severity with no serious adverse events reported 4
- Most common adverse events include gastrointestinal effects, nervous system effects, and skin reactions 4
Important Considerations
- Guaifenesin should not be used in combination with cough suppressants like dextromethorphan if there is a risk of increased airway obstruction 5
- If symptoms persist beyond 7 days or are accompanied by fever, consult a healthcare provider 3
- Adequate hydration should be maintained while taking guaifenesin to help thin mucus secretions 3