What it means
An over-the-counter drug taken by mouth for chest congestion with colds and bronchitis. It makes the mucus in the airways thinner, so coughs bring it up more easily. It is found alone and in many combination cough and cold products, some of which also contain a cough suppressant or a decongestant.
For the nurse
Teach the client to drink plenty of fluids, which also helps thin mucus, to swallow extended-release tablets whole, and to check labels so they do not take the same ingredient in two products. Cough and cold products are not given to young children without a provider's advice.
At a glance
| Drug class | expectorant |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Mucinex |
| Spanish | guaifenesina |
| Also written | Mucinex |
Related terms
cough
A sudden, forceful burst of air from the lungs that clears the airways.