Robitussin is an over-the-counter cough medicine that contains guaifenesin and sometimes other ingredients such as dextromethorphan or acetaminophen. Let’s first look at the ingredients.
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Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps thin and loosen mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up. It is generally safe and well-tolerated when used at recommended doses, but it may cause some mild side effects such as headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or diarrhea in some people. These side effects are rare and usually go away when the medicine is stopped or taken with food.

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that blocks the cough reflex in the brain. It is also generally safe and well-tolerated when used at recommended doses, but it may interact with some other drugs such as antidepressants or MAO inhibitors, causing serious side effects such as high blood pressure, serotonin syndrome or neuroleptic malignant syndrome.
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These side effects are very rare and can be avoided by checking with your doctor before taking Robitussin DM or any other product that contains dextromethorphan.
Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer that is often added to Robitussin products such as Robitussin Severe Multi-Symptom Cough Cold+Flu. It is also generally safe and effective when used at recommended doses, but it may cause severe liver damage if you take too much of it, especially if you also drink alcohol or have a liver disease.
The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen for adults is 4 grams (4000 mg), which is equivalent to 12 regular-strength tablets or 6 extra-strength tablets. You should not take more than this amount in any 24 hours, and you should not take any other products that contain acetaminophen while taking Robitussin or any other product that contains acetaminophen.
- Robitussin is safe for your liver if you use it as directed and do not exceed the recommended dose of guaifenesin, dextromethorphan, or acetaminophen.
- Robitussin can cause liver damage if you take too much of it, especially if it contains acetaminophen or if you also drink alcohol or have a liver disease.
- Robitussin does not damage your liver if you use it as directed and does not exceed the recommended dose of guaifenesin, dextromethorphan, or acetaminophen.


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