A cough can be a nuisance—and a painful one at that. But enduring a wet, dry or incessant cough during pregnancy may feel extra irritating and even worrisome. Colds are also very common during pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that adults have an average of 2–3 colds per year. The chances of catching a cold while pregnant are higher because the immune system is less robust during pregnancy.
Catching a cough or cold during pregnancy will not harm the fetus. However, it can be uncomfortable for the person who is pregnant, and they may also worry about which treatments and medications they can use safely.
What is Mucinex DM?
Mucinex DM is an over-the-counter (OTC) combination medication that relieves cough and chest congestion caused by the common cold, flu, and allergies. Each tablet combines dextromethorphan hydrobromide, a cough suppressant, with guaifenesin, a drug that loosens mucus and bronchial secretions in the lungs. Guaifenesin has a short duration, so each Mucinex “bi-layer” tablet contains both immediate-release and extended-release versions of guaifenesin for long-term effectiveness.
How Mucinex DM is taken
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor, usually every 12 hours with a full glass of water. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not take more than 2 doses in 24 hours. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed.
Do not crush or chew this medication. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split the tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.
Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Fluids will help to break up mucus and clear congestion.
Improper use of this medication (abuse) may result in serious harm (such as brain damage, seizure, death). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer time than directed.
Tell your doctor if your cough returns, or if it is accompanied by a headache that doesn’t go away, fever, severe sore throat, rash, or if it lasts or gets worse after 7 days. These may be signs of a serious medical problem. Get medical help right away if you think you may have a serious medical problem.
Will Mucinex DM harm my unborn child?
According to a source in American Academy of Family Physicians, it’s not yet known if Mucinex DM is safe to use during pregnancy due to its guaifenesin content. Therefore, doctors recommend that you avoid using Mucinex DM during the first trimester of pregnancy.
What happens if I accidentally took Mucinex DM while pregnant?
If you accidentally took Mucinex DM while pregnant call your doctor immediately. Taking too much Mucinex DM can lead to serious problems, including seizures, brain damage, heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), loss of consciousness, and death. Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well after taking Mucinex DM.
Most studies suggest that guaifenesin-containing medications like Mucinex DM are not associated with an increased risk of birth defects over background risk. However, guaifenesin has been shown to cross the placenta. Neonatal levels immediately after delivery can sometimes reach up to 30%.
Mucinex DM side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
This medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:
• mood changes;
• severe headache; or
• severe dizziness or anxiety, feeling like you might pass out;.
Common side effects of Mucinex DM may include:
• dizziness, drowsiness;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• diarrhea; or
• feeling nervous, restless, anxious, or irritable;.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
