Mucinex helps loosen mucus from the lungs.
Alcohol can interfere with medications, including Mucinex.
However, in limited amounts, there is no immediate danger if you drink alcohol while taking it.
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However, it’s important to be aware ofMucinex combination medications that also contain dextromethorphan (DXM).
Combining high amounts of DXM with alcohol can be very dangerous.
This article will discuss the potential risks of taking Mucinex with alcohol.
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Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Mucinex?
Mucinex, containing guaifenesin, usually does not interact dangerously with alcohol if you happen to have one drink.
DXM interacts dangerously with alcohol.
You should also not take acetaminophen with alcohol.
Alcohol interacts with several medications and can alter the metabolism or effects of the drug.
The interaction with medicines generally occurs in the liver, where alcohol and many medications are metabolized.
Can I Have One or Two Drinks While on Mucinex?
Liver Damage
Drinking excessive alcohol can lead to liver problems.
Mucinex is metabolized in the liver.
Using Mucinex and alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage.
Can Mucinex Enhance the Effects of Alcohol?
Usually, Mucinex does not negatively affect a person taking a limited quantity of alcohol.
An increase in dizziness or nausea may go away within a few hours.
However, it would be best if you tried to avoid taking them together in the first place.
Never use alcohol with Mucinex D or other products containing DXM.
They decrease the activity of the neurons of the brain and spinal cord.
Alcohol can make you sleepy, tired, or lightheaded.
Combining alcohol with cough and cold medicines can cause falls and serious injuries, especially among older people.
Summary
Mucinex does not interact too much with alcohol in limited amounts.
Still, it is better to avoid mixing the two to prevent any side effects from potentially worsening.
Therefore, you should avoid drinking while taking Mucinex.
These brands contain dextromethorphan and acetaminophen, which increase the side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
National Institutes of Health.
DailyMed.Label: Mucinex- guaifenesin tablet, extended-release.
MedlinePlus.Guaifenesin
Department of Justice.
Drug Enforcement Administration.DXM (Dextromethorphan).
Sarkar D, Jung MK, Wang HJ.Alcohol and the immune system.Alcohol Res.
2015;37(2):153-155.
National Institutes of Health.
DailyMed.Label: Mucinex DM- guaifenesin and dextromethorphan hydrobromide tablet, extended release.
American Addiction Centers.What are the side effects of DXM and alcohol?
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.Alcohol’s effect on health.
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Over the counter medicines drug facts.
