Mucinex Information
Mucinex and Sudafed are two popular over-the counter (OTC) drugs in the market to treat common symptoms associated with the usual cold like runny nose, blocked nose and general headache. Sudafed helps to relieve a stuffy or congested nose. Mucinex also contains antihistamines (to reduce the effects of allergies) which is ideal for people who feel that they react badly to allergens. It is not always advisable to use both Mucinex and Sudafed simultaneously because their effect and respective time duration of effect may vary.
The main differences between mucinex and sudafed lie on the ingredients used in their preparation. While mucinex uses mainly flavonoids and caffeine, sudafed uses mainly pseudoephedrine. Pseudoephedrine has no side effects and works fast. But it is quite potent than flavonoids or caffeine and has the highest efficacy in enhancing quick recovery from cold. Caffeine acts as a stimulate agent in the system and helps in increasing the speed of the heart beat while pseudoephedrine works as a decongestant. Therefore it can be concluded that pseudoephedrine is the main ingredient in mucinex whereas sudafed is primarily used as the main ingredient in sudafed.
Mucinex contains no Guaifenesin ingredient, which is the active ingredient in Sudafed, which is known as Sudafed plus. Guaifenesin helps to loosen up mucus, which in turn helps to prevent inflammation and chest congestion. But in case one has sensitive mucus membrane and mucus lining then the effects of mucinex may not be as expected. So for best results one should consult a doctor before starting this kind of medicine.
Main differences between mucinex and sudafed
Mucinex is taken once per day in the morning and evening and can be effective for those who suffer from any of the following conditions treated with mucinex: Asthma, bronchitis, chronic cough, post nasal drip, sinusitis, throat infection, post pruritic dryness. Mucinex is also effective in treating those conditions treated with antibiotics like systemic diseases, systemic Lupus erythematosus, arthritis and osteoarthritis. Mucinex should not be confused with any other asthma medication, so before taking this medication one should contact a doctor. Mucinex is available without prescription in the UK, so parents need not worry about the safety of this medication.
Mucinex is basically an antihistamine, so it cannot be mistaken for any other medication. Before taking this medication a doctor will have to verify that the condition causing the cough is really related to the mucous membranes and not some other disease. The doctor will ask some questions including the history of the patient’s symptoms and the response of the mucus in the last few days. Once all the information has been verified by the doctor, the pharmacist can fill a prescription for Mucinex.
It is always advisable to take this medication with food. If you miss your dose, the medication will not work properly. If the dose is not missed, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible. Some side effects of mucinex may include headache, nausea, fever, chills, diarrhea and vomiting. If you are pregnant, you will have to check with your doctor if it is okay to use this medication while you are pregnant.