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Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Cold, Flu and Sore Throat

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 650 mg/20 mL
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2017
Label revision date
October 27, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 650 mg/20 mL
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2017
Label revision date
October 27, 2025
Manufacturer
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. ,
Registration number
M012
NDC root
49035-771

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Drug Overview

Equate™ is a maximum strength medication designed to provide relief from symptoms associated with the common cold, flu, and sore throat. It contains several active ingredients: acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), guaifenesin (an expectorant that helps loosen mucus), and phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant). Together, these ingredients work to temporarily relieve nasal and sinus congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, sore throat, and headaches, while also helping to reduce fever and promote drainage of mucus.

This product is suitable for individuals aged 12 and older and is intended to make coughs more productive by thinning and loosening mucus in the bronchial passageways. With its combination of ingredients, Equate™ aims to help you feel more comfortable when dealing with cold and flu symptoms.

Uses

This medication is designed to help you feel better when you're dealing with common cold and flu symptoms. It can temporarily relieve nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation. If you're experiencing minor aches, pains, a sore throat, or a headache, this medication can also provide relief.

In addition to alleviating these symptoms, it temporarily reduces fever and promotes drainage from your nasal passages and sinuses. It helps to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making it easier to clear out bothersome mucus and making your coughs more productive.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to ensure your safety. You should not take more than the recommended amount, which is 20 mL every 4 hours for adults and children aged 12 years and older. Make sure to use the dosing cup provided with the medication to measure your dose accurately. Avoid using this cup for any other products to prevent confusion.

If you are caring for a child under 12 years of age, do not use this medication for them. Additionally, remember that you should not exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period. Always adhere to these guidelines to avoid any potential overdose.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this medication if you are currently taking any other drug that contains acetaminophen, whether it's a prescription or over-the-counter product. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, this medication is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.

If you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication used for certain mental health conditions, you should not use this product. You must also wait at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI before using this medication. Always prioritize your safety and consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns.

Side Effects

You should be aware that this product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 6 doses in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it.

If you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, cough lasting more than 7 days, or fever lasting more than 3 days, you should stop using the product and consult a doctor. Additionally, if you notice redness or swelling, new symptoms arise, or if your cough returns with a rash or persistent headache, these could indicate a serious condition. It's also important to talk to your doctor before using this product if you have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate. If you are taking the blood thinner warfarin, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 6 doses in 24 hours, take it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. If you have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate, consult your doctor before using this product. Additionally, if you are taking the blood thinner warfarin, check with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Be cautious if you experience severe sore throat that lasts more than 2 days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting; seek medical advice promptly. You should also stop using the product and call your doctor if you notice nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than 7 days, or if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days. Redness, swelling, new symptoms, or a cough that returns with a rash or persistent headache are also reasons to consult your doctor, as these could indicate a serious condition.

Overdose

Taking more than 6 doses of this medication in a 24-hour period can lead to severe liver damage. It's also important to be cautious if you are using other medications that contain acetaminophen, as combining them can increase the risk of liver harm. Additionally, if you regularly consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks each day while using this product, you may also be at risk for serious liver issues.

If you suspect an overdose, look for signs such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, confusion, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). In such cases, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical help. Always remember to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your medication or alcohol use.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

It’s important to be cautious when considering this medication for children. You should not use it in children under 12 years of age. For those who are 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL, taken every 4 hours using the dosing cup provided.

Additionally, if you or your child are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have stopped taking one within the last two weeks, this product should not be used. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about medication for your child.

Geriatric Use

As you consider using this medication, it's important to know that there are no specific dosage adjustments or safety concerns noted for older adults. However, caution is advised if you have certain health conditions, such as liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate. These issues can be more common in older adults.

Before starting the medication, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor, especially if you have any of these conditions. This will help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if you have renal impairment (kidney issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your health situation. They can help monitor your kidney function and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. To avoid severe liver damage, do not take more than 6 doses in a 24-hour period, and be careful not to combine it with other medications that also contain acetaminophen. Additionally, limit your alcohol intake to fewer than 3 drinks per day while using this product, as drinking more can increase the risk of liver damage.

Before using this product, please consult your doctor if you have liver disease. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs and help ensure your safety while using this medication.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious when taking medications, especially when it comes to potential interactions. You should avoid using this medication alongside any other products that contain acetaminophen, as this combination can significantly raise the risk of severe liver damage.

Additionally, if you are taking warfarin, a blood-thinning medication, it's crucial to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this drug. Combining these medications may increase your risk of bleeding. Always discuss your current medications and any lab tests with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and well-being.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F). It's important not to refrigerate the product, as this can affect its effectiveness.

When using the product, a dosing cup is provided to help you measure the correct amount safely. Always handle the product with care to maintain its quality and effectiveness.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally, using the dosing cup provided. The recommended dose for adults and children aged 12 and older is 20 mL every 4 hours, or as directed by your doctor. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using this medication. Additionally, make sure to keep it out of reach of children to ensure their safety.

FAQ

What is equate™ used for?

Equate™ is used to temporarily relieve symptoms of the common cold and flu, including nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, and minor aches and pains.

What are the active ingredients in equate™?

The key active ingredients in equate™ are acetaminophen (pain reliever/fever reducer), dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant), guaifenesin (expectorant), and phenylephrine HCl (nasal decongestant).

Who can use equate™?

Equate™ is indicated for adults and children aged 12 years and older. It should not be used in children under 12 years of age.

How should I take equate™?

Adults and children 12 years and older should take 20 mL every 4 hours, using the dosing cup provided. Do not exceed 6 doses in 24 hours.

Are there any warnings associated with equate™?

Yes, you should not use equate™ with other drugs containing acetaminophen, and it should be used with caution if you have liver disease, heart disease, or high blood pressure.

What should I do if symptoms worsen or persist?

Stop using equate™ and consult a doctor if your symptoms worsen, last more than 7 days, or if you experience new symptoms.

Is there a satisfaction guarantee for equate™?

Yes, equate™ comes with a satisfaction guarantee; if you are not satisfied, you can get a replacement or your money back.

What should I do if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should ask a health professional before using equate™.

How should equate™ be stored?

Store equate™ between 15-30°C (59-86°F) and do not refrigerate.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Cold, Flu and Sore Throat (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Cold, Flu and Sore Throat.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Cold, Flu and Sore Throat, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of common cold and flu symptoms, including nasal congestion, sinus congestion and pressure, cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, minor aches and pains, sore throat, and headache. Additionally, it temporarily reduces fever and promotes nasal and/or sinus drainage. The drug also aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, facilitating the clearance of mucus from the bronchial passageways and making coughs more productive.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Patients should adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and administration guidelines. The maximum dosage should not exceed the specified limits to avoid potential overdose (refer to Overdose Warning).

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL, to be measured using the dosing cup provided, every 4 hours as needed. It is imperative that the dosing cup is used exclusively for this product and not with any other medications.

For children under 12 years of age, the use of this product is not recommended.

In any case, patients should not exceed 6 doses within a 24-hour period.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Co-administration with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose.

  • In children under 12 years of age, as safety and efficacy have not been established in this population.

  • In patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing an MAOI, due to the potential for serious drug interactions. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage guidelines. Specifically, patients should not exceed 6 doses within a 24-hour period, which constitutes the maximum daily amount. Caution is also warranted when this product is used in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, as this can further increase the risk of liver damage. Additionally, patients should be informed that consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product may exacerbate the risk of liver injury.

In cases of severe sore throat that persists for more than 2 days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients should be instructed to consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Patients should be advised to discontinue use and seek medical advice if they experience any of the following symptoms: nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than 7 days; fever that worsens or lasts more than 3 days; presence of redness or swelling; emergence of new symptoms; or a cough that recurs or occurs with a rash or persistent headache. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Healthcare professionals should also inquire about the following conditions before recommending this product: liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, and persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Additionally, patients with a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) should be evaluated before use.

Furthermore, it is essential to advise patients to consult a doctor or pharmacist prior to using this product if they are currently taking the anticoagulant medication warfarin, as interactions may occur. Regular monitoring of liver function and other relevant parameters may be warranted in patients with pre-existing conditions or those taking concomitant medications.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients taking this product containing acetaminophen if they exceed 6 doses in 24 hours, use it in conjunction with other drugs containing acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients are advised to stop use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists for more than 7 days, or if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, medical advice should be sought. Signs such as redness or swelling, the emergence of new symptoms, or a cough that returns or occurs with a rash or persistent headache may indicate a serious condition, warranting immediate medical attention.

Before using this product, patients should consult a doctor if they have a history of liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Those with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or a cough that occurs with excessive phlegm (mucus) should also seek medical advice prior to use. Furthermore, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Drug Interactions

Co-administration of this medication with any other drug containing acetaminophen is contraindicated due to the potential for increased risk of severe liver damage.

Additionally, caution is advised when using this medication in conjunction with warfarin, a blood-thinning agent. The combination may elevate the risk of bleeding. It is recommended that patients consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to initiating therapy if they are currently taking warfarin. Monitoring of coagulation parameters may be warranted in such cases to ensure patient safety.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Cold, Flu and Sore Throat (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Cold, Flu and Sore Throat.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not use this product. For those aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL, administered using the dosing cup provided, every 4 hours as needed.

Caution is advised for patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI, as the use of this product is contraindicated in these circumstances.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not require specific dosage adjustments when using this product, as no safety concerns have been identified in the provided information. However, caution is advised when administering the product to individuals with pre-existing conditions that are commonly found in geriatric populations, such as liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or urinary difficulties due to an enlarged prostate gland.

Healthcare providers should closely monitor elderly patients for any potential adverse effects, particularly in the presence of these conditions. It is recommended that patients consult their healthcare provider prior to use if they have any of the aforementioned health issues, as these may influence the safety and efficacy of the treatment in this demographic.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and lactation. Healthcare providers should consider individual circumstances and the specific health needs of the patient when making recommendations.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating mothers.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the drug insert regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should exercise caution when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed the maximum daily dosage of 6 doses within a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should avoid concomitant use with other medications containing acetaminophen, as this may further increase the risk of liver injury.

Patients with compromised liver function are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product, particularly if they have a history of liver disease. Furthermore, it is recommended that patients limit alcohol consumption to fewer than 3 alcoholic drinks daily while using this product to mitigate the risk of liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with existing hepatic impairment to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment.

Overdosage

In cases of overdosage, significant health risks are associated with exceeding the recommended dosage of this product.

Risk of Severe Liver Damage Administration of more than six doses within a 24-hour period, which constitutes the maximum daily allowance, can lead to severe liver damage. Healthcare professionals should be vigilant in monitoring patients who may have exceeded this limit.

Additionally, the concomitant use of this product with other medications containing acetaminophen poses a substantial risk for severe liver damage. It is crucial for healthcare providers to assess a patient's complete medication history to prevent potential interactions that could exacerbate liver toxicity.

Furthermore, patients who consume three or more alcoholic beverages daily while using this product are at an increased risk of severe liver damage. Healthcare professionals should counsel patients on the dangers of alcohol consumption during treatment and consider alternative therapies for those with a history of alcohol use.

Recommended Actions In the event of suspected overdosage, immediate medical evaluation is warranted. Healthcare providers should initiate appropriate management procedures, which may include supportive care and monitoring of liver function tests. Prompt intervention is essential to mitigate the risk of irreversible liver injury.

Nonclinical Toxicology

There is currently no available information regarding teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects associated with the compound. Additionally, no data has been provided concerning nonclinical toxicology, including animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs. These include nervousness, dizziness, and sleeplessness. Additionally, reports of pain, nasal congestion, and cough worsening or persisting for more than 7 days have been noted. Instances of fever worsening or lasting more than 3 days, as well as redness or swelling, have also been documented. New symptoms occurring, along with cough returning or occurring in conjunction with rash or persistent headache, have been observed in the postmarketing setting.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Patients should be instructed not to use this product in conjunction with any other medications containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain whether a drug contains acetaminophen, they should be encouraged to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

It is important to inform patients that this product is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age. Additionally, patients should be cautioned against using this medication if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the last two weeks. Patients should be advised to seek clarification from a healthcare professional if they are unsure whether their prescription includes an MAOI.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. They should also be advised to stop using the product and seek medical advice if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists for more than 7 days, if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if any redness or swelling occurs. Furthermore, patients should be informed to stop use and consult a doctor if new symptoms arise or if a cough returns, especially if accompanied by a rash or persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious condition.

When using this product, patients should be reminded to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount. Healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor before use if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Patients with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should also seek medical advice prior to use. Additionally, patients should be advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist if they are taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied with a dosing cup included for accurate measurement. It should be stored at a temperature range of 15-30°C (59-86°F). It is important to note that refrigeration is not permitted, as the product must not be exposed to temperatures outside the specified range. Proper handling and storage conditions are essential to maintain the integrity of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with a recommended dose of 20 mL every 4 hours for adults and children aged 12 years and older, or as directed by a healthcare professional. Clinicians should advise patients to consult a health professional if they are pregnant or breastfeeding and to keep the medication out of reach of children.

No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Cold, Flu and Sore Throat, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Cold, Flu and Sore Throat, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.