Thinner mucus is easier to cough up and out of your airway. Certain Mucinex® products contain guaifenesin, an expectorant, which helps to thin and loosen the mucus in your airways and make your coughs more “productive".
Some Mucinex® products also use the cough suppressant dextromethorphan, an antitussive, which helps you cough less. While coughing is good (it helps get excess mucus out of your airways), sometimes you need a break. For example, dextromethorphan can be used at nighttime when you need to quiet your cough and get some sleep.
The medicine dextromethorphan carries risks if abused. If you’re a parent, learn more about medicine abuse and how to combat it.
Use as directed.