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Mucus Relief Cold Flu and Sore Throat

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Tablet, Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
December 11, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Tablet, Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
December 11, 2025
Manufacturer
VALU MERCHANDISERS COMPANY
Registration number
M012
NDC root
63941-497

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Drug Overview

Best Choice® is a medication designed to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. 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 components work to alleviate nasal congestion, headaches, coughs, minor aches and pains, and sore throats, while also helping to reduce fever and make coughs more productive by thinning bronchial secretions.

This medication is suitable for individuals aged 12 and older and is particularly effective in relieving symptoms such as nasal and chest congestion, headaches, and sore throats. By loosening phlegm (mucus), it aids in clearing the bronchial passageways, making it easier to cough up bothersome mucus.

Uses

If you're dealing with the discomfort of a common cold or flu, this medication can help. It temporarily relieves symptoms such as nasal congestion, headaches, coughs, minor aches and pains, and sore throats. Additionally, it can help reduce fever, making you feel more comfortable as you recover.

This medication also works to loosen phlegm (a thick mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, which can help clear your airways and make your coughs more productive. This means you can expect to cough up bothersome mucus more easily, aiding in your overall recovery.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to ensure your safety. If you're an adult or a child aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 caplets every 4 hours as needed. However, make sure not to exceed 12 caplets in a 24-hour period.

If you are caring for a child under 12 years of age, do not use this medication for them. Always remember to stick to the recommended dosage and avoid taking more than directed to prevent any potential overdose.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are currently taking any other medication that contains acetaminophen, whether it's a prescription or over-the-counter drug. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, do not use this product if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication used for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease, or for two weeks after stopping an MAOI. Again, if you're uncertain about your medications, it's best to ask a healthcare professional.

While using this product, make sure not to exceed the recommended dosage. Misusing or abusing this medication can lead to serious health issues, including dependence (a condition where your body becomes reliant on a substance). Always prioritize your safety and well-being by following these guidelines.

Side Effects

You should be aware that taking more than 12 caplets in 24 hours, using other medications containing acetaminophen, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product can lead to severe liver damage. Additionally, acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, including skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

If you have a severe sore throat that lasts more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult a doctor promptly. It's also important to stop using the product and contact a healthcare professional if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, or if your pain, cough, or fever worsens or lasts longer than the specified time. Always seek medical advice if new symptoms arise or if your cough returns with a rash or headache.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 12 caplets in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Be aware that acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions, such as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you notice any skin reactions, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately. If your sore throat is severe, lasts more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult your doctor promptly.

Before using this product, talk to your doctor if you have liver disease, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate. If you are taking the blood thinner warfarin, check with your doctor or pharmacist first. Always follow the recommended dosage and do not exceed it. If you suspect an overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away at 1-800-222-1222. Additionally, stop using the product and call your doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than seven days, or if you develop new symptoms.

Overdose

Taking more than the recommended dose of this medication can lead to serious liver damage. If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Quick medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if you don’t see any signs or symptoms of an overdose. Remember, acting fast can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and health.

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. If your child is under 12 years of age, you should not use this medication for them. For those who are 12 years old and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours.

Be aware that if an overdose occurs, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately, even if your child shows no signs or symptoms. Always prioritize safety and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about using this medication for your child.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information about how this medication should be used by older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. Since older adults may have different health needs and may be taking multiple medications, it’s always a good idea to discuss any new prescriptions with your healthcare provider. They can help ensure that the medication is safe and appropriate for you or your loved one, considering any existing health conditions or medications.

If you have concerns about how this medication might affect you or an older adult in your care, please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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 your kidneys are not functioning optimally.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can help monitor your condition 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. You should not take more than 12 caplets in a 24-hour period, as this is the maximum daily amount. Additionally, avoid using other medications that also contain acetaminophen, and limit your alcohol intake to fewer than three drinks per day while using this product.

Before using this medication, please consult your doctor if you have liver disease. Taking more than the recommended dose can lead to serious liver damage. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, even if you do not notice any symptoms. Quick action is essential for both adults and children.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be aware of how certain medications can interact with each other and with your lifestyle choices. For instance, taking acetaminophen (a common pain reliever) alongside other products that also contain acetaminophen can increase the risk of liver damage. Additionally, if you consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily, this risk is further heightened.

You should also avoid using acetaminophen if you are taking prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as this combination can lead to serious health issues. Always discuss any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and alcohol consumption, 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 dry place at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the product's effectiveness and safety.

When handling the product, be sure to keep it in a clean environment to avoid contamination. Following these storage and handling guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication to ensure it's safe for you and your baby.

FAQ

What is Best Choice® used for?

Best Choice® temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, cough, minor aches and pains, and sore throat. It also helps reduce fever and loosen phlegm.

Who can use Best Choice®?

Best Choice® is intended for adults and children aged 12 and older. Children under 12 years of age should not use this product.

What are the active ingredients in Best Choice®?

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

How should I take Best Choice®?

Adults and children 12 years and older should take 2 caplets every 4 hours, not exceeding 12 caplets in 24 hours.

What should I avoid while taking Best Choice®?

Do not take Best Choice® with any other drug containing acetaminophen or if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).

What are the warnings associated with Best Choice®?

Severe liver damage may occur if you exceed the recommended dose, take it with other acetaminophen-containing drugs, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

What are the side effects of Best Choice®?

Acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions, including skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you experience these symptoms, stop use and seek medical help.

Can I use Best Choice® if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before using Best Choice®.

What should I do if my symptoms persist?

If your pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days, or if fever lasts more than 3 days, stop use and consult a doctor.

Packaging Info

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

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

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for 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 drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of common cold and flu symptoms, including nasal congestion, headache, cough, minor aches and pains, and sore throat. Additionally, it temporarily reduces fever and assists in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, thereby facilitating the expulsion of bothersome mucus and enhancing the productivity of coughs.

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

Dosage and Administration

Patients should adhere strictly to the recommended dosage guidelines. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours as needed. It is imperative that patients do not exceed 12 caplets within a 24-hour period to avoid the risk of overdose.

For children under 12 years of age, the use of this medication is not recommended. Healthcare professionals should ensure that patients are aware of these guidelines to promote safe and effective use of the medication.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

Co-administration with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, is prohibited due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

The product should not be used in conjunction with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing an MAOI. MAOIs are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric, or emotional conditions, as well as for Parkinson's disease. If there is any doubt about the presence of an MAOI in a current prescription, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

Additionally, exceeding the recommended dosage is contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which poses a risk of severe liver damage if the following conditions are met: exceeding 12 caplets within a 24-hour period, concurrent use with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Acetaminophen may also lead to severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor promptly if they experience a severe sore throat that persists for more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

Overdosing on acetaminophen can result in liver damage. In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial; patients should contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, regardless of whether signs or symptoms are present.

General precautions should be taken prior to use. Patients should be advised to consult a healthcare provider if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, or a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Additionally, patients should seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist if they are taking the anticoagulant warfarin.

While using this product, it is essential that patients adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount.

Patients should be instructed to stop taking the product and contact a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond seven days; if fever worsens or lasts more than three days; if redness or swelling occurs; if new symptoms arise; or if a cough recurs with a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring medical evaluation.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients who exceed the maximum daily dosage of 12 caplets within a 24-hour period, take the product in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients should be aware that acetaminophen may lead to severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

If a patient experiences a severe sore throat that persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, they should consult a healthcare professional promptly.

This product should not be used in conjunction with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. Patients are advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether a drug contains acetaminophen. Additionally, this product should not be taken by individuals currently on a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within two weeks of stopping such medication.

Patients with liver disease, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, or those experiencing trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland should seek medical advice before using this product. Furthermore, individuals with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, as well as those with a cough that produces excessive phlegm, should also consult a healthcare professional prior to use.

Patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should ask a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than seven days; if fever worsens or lasts more than three days; if redness or swelling occurs; if new symptoms arise; or if a cough recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache that persists. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition.

An overdose of this product, defined as taking more than the recommended dose, may result in liver damage. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. Quick medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are immediately apparent.

Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen has notable interactions that warrant careful consideration.

When acetaminophen is taken concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen, there is an increased risk of liver damage. This risk is further amplified in individuals who consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily. Therefore, it is advisable to monitor liver function closely in patients who are using acetaminophen in conjunction with other acetaminophen-containing products or who have a history of significant alcohol consumption.

Additionally, the use of acetaminophen is contraindicated in patients receiving prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). The combination of these agents may lead to severe interactions, and alternative analgesics should be considered in such cases to avoid potential adverse effects.

Packaging & NDC

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

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

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not use this medication. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours.

In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek quick medical attention for both adults and pediatric patients, even if no signs or symptoms are immediately apparent.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. Monitoring for potential adverse effects and therapeutic efficacy is recommended in this population.

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 can offer guidance tailored to individual circumstances, ensuring the safety of both the patient and the developing fetus or nursing infant.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a healthcare 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 amount of 12 caplets within a 24-hour period, take this product in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

It is advised that patients with liver disease consult a healthcare professional prior to use. In the event of an overdose, which may lead to liver damage, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms of overdose are apparent.

Overdosage

Taking more than the recommended dose of the medication may lead to liver damage. It is essential for healthcare professionals to recognize the seriousness of an overdose and the potential for significant health consequences.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought. Healthcare providers are advised to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Quick medical attention is critical for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms. Prompt intervention can be vital in mitigating the effects of an overdose and ensuring patient safety.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the use of the compound in these contexts.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

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 with a doctor or pharmacist.

It is important to inform patients that they should not use this product 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 check with their healthcare provider if they are unsure whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and seek medical advice if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, they should be informed to stop using the product and consult a doctor if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists for more than seven days, or if fever worsens or lasts more than three days. Patients should also be advised to seek medical attention if they notice any redness or swelling, if new symptoms arise, or if a cough returns or occurs alongside a rash or headache that lasts, as these may indicate a serious condition.

While using this product, patients must be reminded not to exceed the recommended dosage. It is essential for patients to consult a doctor before using this medication if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, 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 before use. Furthermore, patients should be advised to consult a doctor if they have a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they are taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a configuration that includes specific NDC numbers, which are essential for identification and inventory management. It is crucial to store the product in a controlled environment, maintaining a temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). The storage area should be dry to ensure the integrity of the product. Proper handling practices should be observed to maintain the quality and efficacy of the product throughout its shelf life.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experiences.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for 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 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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Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

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.