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Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough

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Active ingredients
  • 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 2018
Label revision date
October 28, 2025
Active ingredients
  • 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 2018
Label revision date
October 28, 2025
Manufacturer
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. ,
Registration number
M012
NDC root
49035-976

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Drug Overview

Equate Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough is a medication designed to help you manage symptoms associated with colds and respiratory irritants. It works by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, making it easier to clear your airways and produce a more effective cough. This product temporarily relieves cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, reduces the urge to cough, and alleviates nasal congestion.

The active ingredients include dextromethorphan HBr, which acts as a cough suppressant; guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps clear mucus; and phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant that reduces swelling in the nasal passages. This combination helps you breathe easier and can assist you in getting a better night's sleep when you're feeling under the weather.

Uses

This medication is designed to help you breathe easier by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions. This action helps clear out bothersome mucus from your airways, making your coughs more productive.

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, which can happen with the common cold or from inhaling irritants. It also helps reduce the intensity of your cough and the urge to cough, making it easier for you to get to sleep. Additionally, it can help relieve nasal congestion associated with a cold.

Dosage and Administration

When using this medication, it's important to follow the dosing instructions carefully to ensure your safety and effectiveness. You should not take more than 6 doses within a 24-hour period. Always measure your dose using the dosing cup that comes with the medication, as this ensures you get the correct amount. Avoid using this dosing cup for any other products to prevent confusion.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL taken every 4 hours. If you are caring for children under 12 years of age, do not use this medication for them. If you have any questions or need further guidance, consult your doctor.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are a child under 12 years old. Additionally, do not take it if you are currently using a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease. You must also wait at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI before using this product. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended amount. Taking more than directed can lead to serious health risks. Always prioritize your safety and well-being by adhering to these guidelines.

Side Effects

You may experience some side effects while using this medication. If you notice nervousness, dizziness, or trouble sleeping, it's important to stop using the product and consult your doctor. Additionally, if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, or if you develop a fever, a returning cough, a rash, or a persistent headache, these could indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Before using this medication, talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. It's also important to mention if your cough is accompanied by excessive mucus.

Warnings and Precautions

You should not use this medication if you are under 12 years old. Additionally, avoid it if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease, or if you have stopped taking an MAOI within the last two weeks. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Before using this product, it's important to talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. If you experience an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

You should stop using this medication and call your doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days or are accompanied by a fever, or if your cough returns with a rash or persistent headache, as these may indicate a more serious condition.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

Always err on the side of caution—if you notice any concerning symptoms or if you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to get help right away. Your health and safety are the top priority.

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 is important to note that this medication should not be used in children under 12 years of age. If you are a parent or caregiver, please ensure that your child meets this age requirement before considering this treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about the appropriate use of this medication for your child.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult considering this medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

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 know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Before starting any new medication, including this one, you should discuss your liver health with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach for your treatment and ensure your safety.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious when taking this product, especially if you are currently using a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have stopped taking one within the last two weeks. Combining these medications can lead to serious interactions that may affect your health.

Always discuss any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products, with your healthcare provider. They can help ensure that your treatment is safe and effective, and they can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at room temperature. It's important to avoid refrigerating it, as this can affect its effectiveness. When using the product, a dosing cup is provided to help you measure the correct amount safely and accurately.

Always handle the product with clean hands and ensure that the dosing cup is used as directed to maintain safety 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. Always keep it out of reach of children, and in case of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

FAQ

What is Equate Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough used for?

It helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to make coughs more productive and relieve nasal congestion due to a cold.

What are the active ingredients in this medication?

The active ingredients are Dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant), Guaifenesin (expectorant), and Phenylephrine HCl (nasal decongestant).

Who should not use this product?

Do not use this product for children under 12 years of age or if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one in the last 2 weeks.

What is the recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years and older?

The recommended dosage is 20 mL every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop use and ask a doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, or if symptoms do not improve within 7 days.

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

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

How should I store this medication?

Store at room temperature and do not refrigerate. Keep out of reach of children.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

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

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough (dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough, 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 relief of cough associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur due to the common cold or inhaled irritants. It helps to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, facilitating the clearance of bothersome mucus and making coughs more productive.

Additionally, this drug temporarily relieves the intensity of coughing and the impulse to cough, aiding in sleep. It also alleviates nasal congestion associated with colds.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects reported for this drug.

Dosage and Administration

The maximum recommended dosage is 6 doses within a 24-hour period. It is imperative that the dosing cup provided is used exclusively for measuring the medication and not for any other products.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL, administered every 4 hours as needed. For children under 12 years of age, the use of this medication is not recommended.

Healthcare professionals should ensure that patients are instructed to adhere strictly to these guidelines to avoid potential overdose and ensure safe administration.

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. MAOIs are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, and Parkinson's disease. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

  • Use beyond the recommended dosage is also contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

The use of this product is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age. Additionally, it must not be administered to individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within two weeks of discontinuing such medication. MAOIs are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised prior to use.

Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and recommend that patients consult a physician before using this product if they have any of the following conditions: heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, or a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, patients with a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) should also seek medical advice prior to use.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 1-800-222-1222.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve within seven days, or if they are accompanied by fever, or if a cough recurs or is associated with a rash or persistent headache, these may indicate a serious condition requiring medical evaluation.

Side Effects

Patients may experience a range of adverse reactions while using this medication. Serious adverse reactions warrant immediate medical attention and include symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if these symptoms occur. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve within 7 days, or if they are accompanied by fever, patients are advised to seek medical advice. A return of cough, particularly if it is associated with a rash or persistent headache, may indicate a serious underlying condition and should also prompt consultation with a healthcare provider.

Before initiating treatment, patients with pre-existing conditions should consult a healthcare professional. This includes individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or those experiencing trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Furthermore, patients with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, as well as those with coughs producing excessive phlegm, should seek medical advice prior to use.

Drug Interactions

The concurrent use of this product with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. Patients should not use this product while taking an MAOI or for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. The combination may result in serious interactions that could pose significant health risks.

No additional drug interactions or laboratory test interactions have been identified for this product. Therefore, no further dosage adjustments or monitoring recommendations are necessary beyond the contraindication with MAOIs.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough (dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Maximum Strength Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not be administered this medication. There are no established safety or efficacy profiles for this age group, and its use is contraindicated in children younger than 12 years.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available 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. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in efficacy, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

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 weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

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 medication in human 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 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 have not been specifically studied in relation to this drug. Consequently, there are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Healthcare professionals should advise patients or caregivers to call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Prompt intervention is crucial in managing overdose situations effectively. Symptoms of overdose may vary depending on the substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and address any potential complications that may arise.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the specific clinical presentation of the patient. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure patient safety and to mitigate any adverse effects associated with the overdose.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs. These include nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, rash, and persistent headache.

While these reactions may occur in patients using the product, they could also be indicative of a serious condition.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, patients should be instructed to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

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 product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have stopped taking an MAOI drug within the past two weeks. If patients are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI, they should be encouraged to consult with their doctor or pharmacist.

Patients should be advised to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. They should also be instructed to seek medical advice if their symptoms do not improve within 7 days or if they experience symptoms accompanied by fever. Furthermore, patients should stop using the product and contact a healthcare professional if their cough returns or is associated with a rash or persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious condition.

While using this product, patients must be reminded not to exceed the recommended dosage. Healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor before use if they have any of the following conditions: 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. Lastly, patients should be advised to consult a doctor if they have a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus).

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied with a dosing cup included for accurate measurement. It should be stored at room temperature and must not be refrigerated to maintain its efficacy. Proper handling is essential to ensure the integrity of the product throughout its shelf life.

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 who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. It is crucial to keep the medication out of reach of children, and in the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

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 Severe Congestion and Cough, 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 Severe Congestion and Cough, 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.