Guaifenesin is also known as: Amibid LA, Benylin E, Breonesin, Buckley's Chest Congestion, Dristan Chesty Cough Guaiphenesin, Drituss G, Family Meltus Chesty Coughs, Giltuss Children's EX Expectorant, Glytuss, Guaiatussin, Guiacough, Guiatuss, Halotussin, Humibid, Mucinex, Mucinex Maximum Strength, Mucus Relief, Pneumomist, Refenesen Chest Congestion Relief, Robafen, Robitussin Chest Congestion, Siltussin, Sorbutuss, Tussin, Tussin Expectorant Show
Guaifenesin Pregnancy WarningsThe Collaborative Perinatal Project reported 197 first-trimester exposures to guaifenesin. Fourteen malformations were reported for a relative risk not significantly different from 1.0. In a review of 229,101 deliveries to Michigan Medicaid patients, 141 first-trimester exposures to guaifenesin and 349 exposures anytime during pregnancy were recorded. A total of 9 birth defects were reported with first trimester exposure (6 expected) and included 2 cardiovascular defects. These data do not support an association between guaifenesin and birth defects. (written communication, Franz Rosa, MD, Food and Drug Administration, 1994) Guaifenesin has been assigned to pregnancy category C. by the FDA. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy. Guaifenesin is only recommend for use during pregnancy when benefit outweighs risk. See references Guaifenesin Breastfeeding WarningsThere are no data on the excretion of guaifenesin into human milk. The manufacturer recommends that due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. See references References for pregnancy information
References for breastfeeding information
Further informationAlways consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. No one wants to get sick during pregnancy. And whether it’s caused by allergies, a cold, or bronchitis, a cough can be one of the most stubborn conditions to treat. So what are you supposed to do about a cough while you’ve got a baby on board? Are the most common medications safe for you to take right now? Make yourself a hot drink, and we’ll look at the question of taking Mucinex while pregnant. In this article 📝
What is Mucinex?Mucinex is a brand-name over-the-counter medicine that lots of people keep in the cabinet for when they feel congested. It comes in different formulations and strengths, but the main active ingredients are:
Is Mucinex safe during pregnancy?If you’re wondering, ‘Can I take Mucinex while pregnant?’ the answer is a little complicated. The FDA has categories to describe how safe it is to take different medications during pregnancy. The ingredients above – guaifenesin and dextromethorphan – are both listed as category C. This means there’s good news and bad news when it comes to the question: ‘Does Mucinex cause birth defects?’ (Note: We prefer the term ‘birth differences’, though. See our #RenamingRevolution Glossary.) The bad news is that animal trials have shown that category C drugs affect fetal development. The good news is that the same effects haven’t been observed in humans. But, unfortunately, the bottom line is that we simply don’t have enough data to say for sure that the active ingredients in Mucinex are safe for mamas-to-be and their babies. Often, the verdict on category C medications is this: if the benefit (i.e. finally being able to sleep without coughing yourself awake and/or avoiding a serious chest infection) outweighs the risk, it’s possible that your doctor would prescribe Mucinex during your pregnancy. So can I take Mucinex while pregnant?As with all cold and flu medications, like Mucinex, NyQuil, and Theraflu it’s important to ask your doctor directly before you take Mucinex during pregnancy. This isn’t just because of the category C risk, but also because there are so many different products on pharmacy shelves. It’s really important to take the correct dose and avoid certain ingredients. While the guaifenesin and dextromethorphan in Mucinex are sometimes considered reasonably safe, that’s not the case for the common decongestant (a drug that helps unblock your nose), phenylephrine. With this medication, there’s more evidence to show that it can cause a higher rate of birth differences, especially if it’s taken during the first trimester. Your doctor or pharmacist will help you avoid medications that contain this ingredient. How much Mucinex is safe during pregnancy?The recommended dose of Mucinex for pregnant women isn’t different from the recommended dose for other adults. But you might prefer to take the smallest dose you can for the shortest possible time. Some extra tips when taking cold meds:
Home remedies for a coughIf your cough is mild and you’re only slightly congested, these home remedies can make a big difference: Can I take any Mucinex while pregnant?Mucinex, Mucinex D, Mucinex DM, and the extra-strength versions of each, because the six forms of Mucinex contain guaifenesin. Avoid taking any of these during the first trimester of pregnancy. However, they may be safe to use during later trimesters.
What category is Mucinex for pregnancy?Guaifenesin is considered pregnancy category C. Guaifenesin has not been studied as extensively as other OTC products. In one study of 197 pregnant women, there was an association between guaifenesin exposure in the first trimester and an increased incidence of inguinal hernias.
Is Mucinex DM okay during pregnancy?Cough medicines and cough drops are generally regarded as safe during the second and third trimesters and include those containing dextromethorphan. Brand names are: Mucinex.
How many mg of Mucinex can I take while pregnant?Cough suppressants can come in immediate-release and extended-release preparations. The maximum dose for pregnant women is 120 mg in 24 hours.
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