ADD CONDITION

items per page

Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough

Last content change checked dailysee data sync status

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
Solution
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
September 16, 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
Solution
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
September 16, 2025
Manufacturer
Chain Drug Marketing Association, Inc.
Registration number
M012
NDC root
83324-077

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

QC® (Quality Choice) is a maximum strength medication designed to provide relief from severe congestion and cough. It contains three active ingredients: dextromethorphan HBr, which acts as a cough suppressant; guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions; and phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant that alleviates nasal congestion.

This product is intended for individuals aged 12 years and older and temporarily relieves cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, which can occur with the common cold or from inhaled irritants. It also helps reduce the intensity of coughing and the impulse to cough, making it easier for you to rest.

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 cough 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 relieve nasal congestion associated with a cold, helping you feel more comfortable.

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 that comes with the medication to measure your dose accurately.

Remember, you should not exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period. If you are caring for a child under 12 years old, do not use this medication for them. Always stick to the guidelines to avoid any potential risks.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which are medications often prescribed for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, you should not use this product for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

It's also important to follow the recommended dosage carefully. Do not exceed the suggested amount, as misuse can lead to serious health issues. Always prioritize your safety and well-being by adhering to these guidelines.

Side Effects

You should be aware of some potential side effects when using this medication. If you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, it's important to stop using the medication and consult your doctor. Additionally, if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, or if you develop a cough that lasts more than a week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, seek medical advice as these could indicate a more serious condition.

Before using this medication, talk to your doctor if you have any of the following: difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, thyroid disease, a persistent cough from smoking or chronic lung conditions, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or a cough with excessive mucus.

Warnings and Precautions

You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication used 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 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: difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, thyroid disease, a chronic cough (like those caused by smoking or asthma), high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or a cough with excessive mucus. If you experience an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

You should stop using this product 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 lasts more than a week, recurs, or is accompanied by a fever, 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 or contact a Poison Control Center. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual symptoms that are more severe than what you typically experience with the medication.

Always err on the side of caution—if you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance. 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's important to be cautious when using this medication for children. If your child is under 12 years old, you should not use this product. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours, using the dosing cup provided.

Always keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Your child's safety is the top priority, so please follow these guidelines carefully.

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, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting the medication. 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 should be used 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 you understand how to manage your treatment effectively while considering your kidney health.

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 should be used 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 dextromethorphan, 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 drugs, with your healthcare provider. They can help ensure that your treatments are 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, always check the expiration date on the package before use. For proper storage, keep the product at a temperature of 25°C (77°F). It’s acceptable for the temperature to fluctuate between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F), but try to avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures outside this range.

When handling the product, make sure to do so with clean hands and in a safe environment to maintain its integrity. Following these guidelines will help ensure that the product remains effective and safe for use.

Additional Information

There are a few important points to keep in mind when using this medication. It is taken orally, with adults and children aged 12 years and older typically taking 20 mL every 4 hours using the provided dosing cup. However, it is not recommended for children under 12 years old. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using this medication.

Additionally, if you're concerned about the potential for medicine abuse, especially among teens, you can find helpful resources at www.StopMedicineAbuse.org.

FAQ

What is QC® used for?

QC® is used to temporarily relieve cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, as well as nasal congestion due to a cold.

What are the active ingredients in QC®?

QC® contains Dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), Guaifenesin (an expectorant), and Phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant).

Who can use QC®?

QC® is indicated for adults and children aged 12 years and over. It should not be used by children under 12 years.

What is the recommended dosage for adults and children over 12?

The recommended dosage is 20 mL in the dosing cup provided every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 doses in any 24-hour period.

Are there any contraindications for using QC®?

Do not use QC® if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

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

Is QC® safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

How should QC® be stored?

Store QC® at 25°C (77°F), with permitted excursions between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F).

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

What flavor does QC® come in?

QC® is available in a Mixed Berry flavor.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for 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 specified 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 assists in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, thereby facilitating the clearance of mucus from the bronchial passageways and making coughs more productive.

Additionally, this drug temporarily relieves the intensity of coughing and the impulse to cough, which may help patients achieve restful sleep. It also alleviates nasal congestion associated with colds.

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

Dosage and Administration

Patients should adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and administration guidelines. The maximum dosage should not exceed the directed amount, and no more than 6 doses should be taken within a 24-hour period.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL, administered using the dosing cup provided, every 4 hours as needed. It is essential to utilize only the dosing cup included with the product to ensure accurate measurement.

This medication is not indicated for use in children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, use is contraindicated for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Exceeding the recommended dosage while using this product is also contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

The use of this product is contraindicated in individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing such medication. MAOIs are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, and Parkinson’s disease. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult with a doctor or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether their prescription includes an MAOI.

General precautions should be taken prior to use. Patients should seek medical advice if they have any of the following conditions: difficulty urinating due to prostate gland enlargement, thyroid disease, a persistent or chronic cough (such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema), high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted without delay.

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 7 days or are accompanied by fever, or if a cough persists for more than one week, recurs, or is associated with fever, rash, or a 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 are advised to 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, further evaluation is necessary. A persistent cough lasting more than one week, particularly if it tends to recur or is associated with fever, rash, or a persistent headache, may indicate a serious underlying condition and should be assessed by a healthcare provider.

Before initiating treatment, patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have any of the following conditions: difficulty in urination due to prostate gland enlargement, thyroid disease, persistent or chronic cough (such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema), high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus). These pre-existing conditions may influence the safety and efficacy of the medication.

Drug Interactions

The concurrent use of dextromethorphan with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. Patients should not take dextromethorphan while on MAOIs or for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of MAOI therapy. This combination can result in serious interactions that may pose significant health risks.

No additional drug interactions or drug and laboratory test interactions have been identified. Therefore, monitoring for interactions is not necessary beyond the specified contraindication with MAOIs.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Mucus Relief Severe Congestion and Cough.
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 20 mL administered every 4 hours using the dosing cup provided.

It is essential to keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or a Poison Control Center should be contacted without delay.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the potential for altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in 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 medication. 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. Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with the overdose.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that the specific symptoms of overdose may vary depending on the substance involved. Therefore, a thorough assessment of the patient's condition is essential to determine the appropriate course of action.

Management of an overdose typically involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment. Continuous monitoring of the patient's vital signs and clinical status is recommended. In cases where the substance is known, specific antidotes or treatments may be indicated, and healthcare providers should refer to established guidelines for the management of the particular overdose scenario.

It is essential for healthcare professionals to remain vigilant and act swiftly in the event of an overdose to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

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 revealed reports of various adverse reactions associated with the use of the product. These include nervousness, dizziness, and sleeplessness. Additionally, allergic reactions such as rash, itching, and swelling have been documented. Gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea and vomiting, were also reported. Cardiovascular events, notably elevated blood pressure and palpitations, have been observed, along with respiratory issues such as difficulty breathing. It is important to note that these reactions were reported in patients using the product and may not be directly related to the drug.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of an overdose. It is crucial to inform patients that this product should not be used concurrently with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Patients should also be cautioned against using this product for at least two weeks after discontinuing an MAOI. 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 instructed to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, they should seek medical advice if their symptoms do not improve within seven days, or if they experience a cough that persists for more than one week, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious condition.

While using this product, patients must be reminded not to exceed the recommended dosage. Furthermore, healthcare providers should recommend that patients consult a doctor prior to use if they have any of the following conditions: difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, thyroid disease, a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus).

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied with an expiration date clearly indicated on the package. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 25°C (77°F). Temporary excursions from this temperature are permissible, provided they remain within the range of 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

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

Clinicians should be aware that the medication is administered orally, with a recommended dosage of 20 mL every 4 hours for adults and children aged 12 years and older. It is contraindicated for children under 12 years. Patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to use. Additionally, resources are available for understanding the risks of medicine abuse among teens at www.StopMedicineAbuse.org.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for 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 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.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

Last AI update:

Primary FDA sources:

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.