Mucinex ER 600 mg Dosing Frequency
Mucinex ER (extended-release guaifenesin) 600 mg should be given every 12 hours, with a maximum of 2 doses (1200 mg total) in 24 hours. 1
Standard Dosing Regimen
- Adults and children ≥12 years: Take 1-2 tablets (600-1200 mg) every 12 hours 1, 2
- Maximum daily dose: Do not exceed 2400 mg (4 tablets) in 24 hours 1
- The extended-release formulation was specifically developed to reduce dosing frequency from every 4 hours (required for immediate-release guaifenesin) to every 12 hours while maintaining therapeutic efficacy 2
Key Pharmacokinetic Considerations
- Bioequivalence: The 1200 mg ER formulation given every 12 hours provides steady-state exposures equivalent to 400 mg immediate-release guaifenesin given every 4 hours 2
- Food effects: Food may delay absorption (later Tmax) but does not affect overall drug exposure (AUC), so the medication can be taken with or without food 2
- The bi-layer tablet design allows for both immediate and extended release, maintaining therapeutic levels throughout the 12-hour dosing interval 2
Clinical Application
- The 12-hour dosing schedule offers significant convenience and improved adherence compared to the 4-hour dosing required for immediate-release formulations 2, 3
- Multiple daily doses are unnecessary with the ER formulation, as it maintains 24-hour therapeutic effect with twice-daily administration 3
- The safety profile is well-established, with predominantly mild gastrointestinal and nervous system adverse events when used at recommended doses 4