Mucinex and Mucinex DM are similar medications aimed at remedying the same conditions but the strength levels of the two vary and also the promptness and efficacy with which the two medicines work are quite different.
The Differences Between Mucinex and Mucinex DM
Mucinex is primarily taken to fight mucus. When you are down with cold and are coughing incessantly or have considerable congestion in your nasal tracts and in the chest, Mucinex is an effective medicine to have handy. The tablet has two layers and generally starts to work in the first fifteen minutes. The dosage of this medicine varies and would depend on the recommendation of the doctor. The manufacturer recommends about one or two tablets every twelve hours. One shouldn’t consume more than four tablets in the span of twenty four hours. The effect of one tablet is usually prevalent for about six to seven hours. It must be noted that children below the age of twelve must not take Mucinex. Also, this tab is not the strongest in its family.
Mucinex DM is a strong medicine that has the power to fight both wet and dry cough. It can break down the mucus and clear the nasal passage and ease out chest congestion. Mucinex DM is not only recommended to fight cold and cough but can also be prescribed to people who have sinus infections. Mucinex DM is usually recommended with a dosage of about one tablet every twelve hours. One shouldn’t take more than two tablets in a day. The effect of one Mucinex DM tablet usually lasts well enough for twelve hours and a bit more.
There are other grounds of difference between Mucinex and Mucinex DM. Mucinex contains a powerful expectorant in guaifenesin. Mucinex DM has guaifenesin and dextromethorphan HBr. The latter is a cough suppressant. Mucinex can relieve chest congestion, thins and loosens up mucus and the tablet comes in packs of 20, 40, 60 and 100 counts. Mucinex DM can control severe cough, break down very thick mucus and is available in pack of 20 and 40 tablets.
Both the medications are recommended by doctors but they can be bought online or over the counter. People with mild cough should try out Mucinex first and only when there is no respite should opt for Mucinex DM. The latter is a stronger med.