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Mucus control.

I was wondering if any of you folks have an opinion on Mucinex or like medicines versus natural alternatives for controlling mucus? Kind of concerned about using a medicine that could make the mucus move and maybe bring on an attack. My doctor told me it would be okay to use Mucinex but he doesn't have asthma so I figured maybe someone here would have a tip that he wouldn't know? Perhaps the most effective time to use Mucinex or other medicine, maybe you have found something that works better Thank you in advance!

  1. Though pretty much under control, my adult asthma come with a strong mucus component that waxes and wanes. My excitement pulmo has me taking extra-strength Mucinex twice daily. He’s says it’s fine to take daily and he has patients that have been augmenting their asthma control with Mucinex (or an equivalent) for over 30 years.

    1. anytime I get a cold or anything where I'm going to have any chance of extra mucus production or just feel like I have extra mucus I will take a generic equate brand Mucinex and it seems to work well for me 12 hour release. Especially after an asthma attack for a while just to help my lungs so they don't have to work so hard while they're recovering. Maybe about a month after an attack depending on severity and how I feel of course. Ask your doctor he might be able to write you a prescription.

    2. Hi again, Eric, and thanks for sharing the success you're having using this type of medication (generic form of Mucinex). We appreciate your feedback and willingness to share with the community.
      All the best,
      Leon (site moderator asthma.net)

  2. Hi. Thank you for the great question. I see you received a great response from . And, I would tend to agree. Mucus is a thick, sticky substance that, when in excess as it can be in asthmatics, can stick to airways and obstruct airways. Mucinex is a nice medicine for thinning mucus, making it easier to remove from your airways so you can cough it up. That's why my doctor prescribes it at times as well. Hope you find this helpful. And wishing you all the best. John. asthma.net community moderator

    1. Hi Eric - If it's coming up that far, you may want to make an extra effort (if you are able to), to cough it further up and out. It's always better, when feasible, to get the mucus/sputum out of one's system.
      Have you had an opportunity to discuss this with your physician? The doctor may have a perspective to share with you as well.
      Enjoy the weekend, and the new year!
      Leon (site moderator asthma.net)

    2. I spoke with him about it he mentioned the Mucinex and using ProAir if needed.

  3. I did speak with my doctor about it he mentioned trying Mucinex and using ProAir to clear it if needed.


    1. Hi again, Eric - glad to hear you spoke with the physician and he advised you.
      Let's see now how this all works out for you.
      Please do check back and keep us apprised of your progress
      Warmly,
      Leon (site moderator asthma.net)

  4. Mucinex has been a life-saver for me. I was hospitalized for 5 days some time ago, right before Mucinex came on the market. The doctor gave guifenisen (active ingredient in Mucinex) and it worked like a charm. I don't like taking any medicine, so I limit use to only when I really need it, maybe 4x a month during allergy season, but the doctor had told me that it doesn't have any real side effects. Try it, it might work for you.

    1. Thank my you for sharing what you've discovered works for you. I also use the generics and find them quite helpful when I need them. It's nice having this option. Wishing you all the best. John. asthma.net community moderator.

    2. thanks for sharing this tidbit of info. I recently had a cold/URI and my husband picked up the generic brand at a major drugstore. It worked wonders to loosen up that phlegm and managed to get it out. Appreciate your most courteous response.

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