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Mucus Relief

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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 2015
Label revision date
March 23, 2026
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 2015
Label revision date
March 23, 2026
Manufacturer
Dolgencorp, Inc. (DOLLAR GENERAL & REXALL)
Registration number
M012
NDC root
55910-336

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Drug Overview

Maximum Strength Mucinex® Fast-Max® Cold, Flu & Sore Throat is a fast-acting medication designed to provide relief from multiple symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It helps alleviate nasal congestion, headache, sinus pressure, sore throat, and cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation. Additionally, it temporarily reduces fever and promotes nasal and sinus drainage, making it easier to clear mucus from the airways.

The active ingredients in this product include acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), guaifenesin (which helps relieve mucus), and phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant). Together, these components work to loosen phlegm and thin bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive and providing you with the relief you need during cold and flu season.

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, sinus pressure, sore throats, and coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation. You may also find relief from minor aches and pains, and it can help reduce fever.

Additionally, this medication promotes nasal and sinus drainage, making it easier to breathe. It works by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, which helps clear out bothersome mucus and makes your coughs more productive.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully when using this medication. You should not take more than the recommended amount, which is a maximum of 6 doses within a 24-hour period. To ensure accurate dosing, always use the dosing cup that comes with the product and keep it with the medication.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours as needed while symptoms persist. However, if your child is under 12 years old, you should not use this medication for them. Always consult with a doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the dosage.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this medication if you are under 12 years of age. Additionally, do not take it if you are currently using a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication for depression or certain other conditions, or if you have stopped taking an MAOI within the last two weeks. If you're unsure whether your current medication includes an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

It's also important not to combine this medication with any other products that contain acetaminophen, which is a common pain reliever found in many over-the-counter and prescription drugs. If you have any doubts about whether a medication contains acetaminophen, ask a healthcare professional. Lastly, always follow the dosing instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount.

Side Effects

Taking this medication can lead to some serious side effects, so it's important to be aware of them. You should avoid exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period, taking it with other acetaminophen-containing products, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily, as these can increase the risk of severe liver damage. Additionally, be cautious of potential severe skin reactions, which may include symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you experience any of these, stop using the medication and seek medical help immediately.

You should also consult a doctor if you have a sore throat that is severe, lasts more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. Other signs that warrant medical attention include nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, cough lasting more than seven days, or any new symptoms. If you suspect an overdose, which can also lead to liver damage, seek medical help right away, even if you don't notice any symptoms.

Warnings and Precautions

It's important to be aware of some key warnings when using this product. First, it contains acetaminophen, which can cause severe liver damage if you take more than 4,000 mg in 24 hours, use it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, be cautious of potential severe skin reactions, such as 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 sore throat that is severe, lasts more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult your doctor promptly.

Always follow the dosage instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away, even if you don't notice any symptoms. You should also 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 your fever worsens or lasts more than three days. New symptoms or a cough that returns with a rash or persistent headache could indicate a serious condition, so it's best to get medical advice.

Overdose

Taking more than the recommended dose of medication can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage. If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately, even if you or the person affected do not show any signs or symptoms. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Remember, quick action is crucial for both adults and children in these situations. Always err on the side of caution and get help right away if you think an overdose has occurred.

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 for anyone under 12 years of age. For those who are 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL every 4 hours as needed while symptoms persist. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about using this medication for your child.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication, there are no specific recommendations or dosage adjustments for older adults. This means that the standard dosage applies, and there are no unique safety concerns or precautions noted for elderly patients. However, it's always a good idea to discuss any medications with your healthcare provider, especially if you or your loved ones are older, to ensure they are 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 your kidneys are not functioning properly.

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 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period, and you should avoid using it alongside other medications that also contain acetaminophen. Additionally, consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product can lead to severe liver damage.

Before using this product, please consult your doctor if you have liver disease. Be aware that taking more than the recommended dose can result in an overdose, which may cause 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 medical attention is crucial for both adults and children.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you.

Always feel free to ask questions and share your complete list of medications and any lab tests you may be undergoing. This way, you can receive the best possible care tailored to your needs.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best use of your product, store it at room temperature, specifically between 20-25ºC (68-77ºF). It's important not to refrigerate it, as this can affect its effectiveness. Always keep the dosing cup with the product for accurate measurement, and remember to discard the product after opening to maintain safety and quality.

By following these simple storage and handling guidelines, you can help ensure that the product remains safe and effective for your use.

Additional Information

You can take this medication orally, with a recommended dose of 20 mL every 4 hours for adults and children aged 12 and older, as long as symptoms persist. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using this medication to ensure it's safe for you.

FAQ

What is Maximum Strength Mucinex® Fast-Max® Cold, Flu & Sore Throat used for?

It is used to temporarily relieve common cold and flu symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, sore throat, cough, and minor aches and pains.

What are the active ingredients in this product?

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

How should I take Maximum Strength Mucinex® Fast-Max® Cold, Flu & Sore Throat?

Adults and children 12 years and older should take 20 mL every 4 hours while symptoms last, but do not exceed 6 doses in 24 hours.

Are there any age restrictions for this medication?

Yes, do not use this product for children under 12 years of age.

What should I do if I experience severe skin reactions?

If you notice symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash, stop use and seek medical help immediately.

What are the overdose risks associated with this medication?

Taking more than the recommended dose may cause liver damage. In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Can I take this medication if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before use.

What should I do if my symptoms worsen or new symptoms occur?

Stop use and consult a doctor if symptoms like nervousness, dizziness, or cough worsen, or if new symptoms appear.

How should I store this medication?

Store between 20-25ºC (68-77ºF) and do not refrigerate. Keep the dosing cup with the product.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Mucus Relief.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Mucus Relief, 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, headache, sinus congestion and pressure, sore throat, cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, and minor aches and pains. Additionally, it temporarily reduces fever and promotes nasal and/or sinus drainage. The formulation 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 6 doses within a 24-hour period. It is imperative to measure the dosage using only the dosing cup provided with the product; the use of dosing cups from other products is not advised. The dosing cup should be kept with the product at all times to ensure proper measurement.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours, as needed, while symptoms persist. The use of this product is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Healthcare professionals should instruct patients to follow these guidelines or any specific directions provided by their physician.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Children under 12 years of age.

  • Patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or those who have discontinued MAOI therapy within the past 2 weeks. Consultation with a healthcare professional is advised if there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in any prescription medication.

  • Concurrent use with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. Healthcare professionals should be consulted if there is uncertainty about the acetaminophen content of any medication.

  • Exceeding the recommended dosage is also contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to avoid exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, to refrain from using other medications that also contain acetaminophen, and to limit alcohol consumption to fewer than three drinks daily while using this product.

Acetaminophen has been associated with severe skin reactions. Symptoms may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. If any of these symptoms occur, patients should be instructed to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

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

It is essential that patients do not exceed the recommended dosage of this product.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is critical. Patients should be instructed to contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical help, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.

Patients should also be advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider 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 develop; or if a cough recurs or is accompanied by a rash or persistent headache. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients who exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, use other medications containing acetaminophen concurrently, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients should be aware of the potential for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen, which may 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.

In cases where a sore throat is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients are advised to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Patients should discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts longer than seven days; if fever worsens or lasts more than three days; if redness or swelling is present; if new symptoms arise; or if a cough recurs or occurs with a rash or persistent headache. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition.

An overdose of acetaminophen can lead to liver damage. Patients are urged to seek immediate medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) if they suspect an overdose, even if no signs or symptoms are present. Quick medical attention is critical for both adults and children in such cases.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there is no information available regarding interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted at this time.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Mucus Relief.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not use this medication. For patients aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL every 4 hours as needed while symptoms persist. Safety and efficacy have not been established in children younger than 12 years.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not require specific dosage adjustments or special precautions when using this medication, as there are no recommendations or safety concerns outlined in the provided drug insert. However, healthcare providers should remain vigilant in monitoring the overall health status of geriatric patients, as individual responses to treatment may vary. It is advisable to consider the general principles of pharmacotherapy in the elderly, including the potential for altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, when prescribing this medication.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully considered in these populations to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus or infant.

Lactation

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

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the drug insert. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the lack of data 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 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in 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 a history of liver disease consult a healthcare professional prior to use. Due to the potential for overdose, which may lead to liver damage, it is crucial for patients to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) should be contacted without delay. Prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms of overdose are present.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to recognize that exceeding the recommended dosage may lead to significant liver damage. Healthcare professionals should be aware that immediate medical intervention is essential for both adults and children, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

Recommended Actions In cases of suspected overdose, it is imperative to seek medical assistance without delay. Healthcare providers should advise patients or caregivers to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Prompt action can be critical in mitigating potential harm.

Potential Symptoms While specific symptoms of overdose may not always be evident, the risk of liver damage underscores the importance of vigilance. Healthcare professionals should monitor for any signs of liver impairment and be prepared to initiate appropriate management protocols.

Management Procedures Upon confirmation of an overdose, healthcare providers should follow established clinical guidelines for the assessment and treatment of liver toxicity. This may include supportive care and monitoring of liver function tests, as well as considering the need for further interventions based on the severity of the overdose.

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 about the potential risks associated with overdose, emphasizing that taking more than the recommended dose may lead to liver damage. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) immediately, as prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.

It is important to inform patients that this product is not intended for use in children under 12 years of age. Additionally, patients should be cautioned against using this product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have stopped taking an MAOI within the past two weeks. If patients are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI, they should be encouraged to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.

Patients should be instructed not to use this product in conjunction with any other medications containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If there is any doubt regarding the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, patients should seek clarification from a healthcare professional.

Healthcare providers should also inform patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Furthermore, patients should 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. New symptoms that arise should also prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider.

Patients should be made aware that if a cough returns or occurs alongside a rash or persistent headache, these could indicate a serious condition, and they should seek medical attention promptly. When using this product, patients must adhere strictly to the directed dosage.

Healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor before using this product if they have any of the following conditions: diabetes, liver disease, heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, persistent or chronic cough (such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema), cough accompanied by excessive phlegm, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Additionally, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied with a dosing cup included in the package. It should be stored at a temperature range of 20-25ºC (68-77ºF) and must not be refrigerated. After opening, the product should be discarded to ensure safety and efficacy.

Additional Clinical Information

Patients should be informed that 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 provider. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Mucus Relief, 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, 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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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.