Which of the following is an OTC expectorant commonly used for chest congestion?

Which of the following is an OTC expectorant commonly used for chest congestion?

• A. Delsym
• B. Robitussin
• C. Guaifenesin
• D. Tylenol

Answer: (C)

An OTC remedy for chest congestion works best when it helps thin and loosen thick mucus so it can be cleared more easily by coughing. Guafienesin is the active ingredient in many of these expectorants and is commonly used specifically to thin mucus in the airways. Delsym contains dextromethorphan, which acts as a cough suppressant rather than an mucus-thinning agent, so it doesn’t function as an expectorant. Tylenol is acetaminophen, used for pain or fever, not for mucus or coughing. Robitussin can be formulated with guaifenesin, but the ingredient most closely aligned with the role of an expectorant for chest congestion is guaifenesin. That’s why this option is the best choice.

An OTC remedy for chest congestion works best when it helps thin and loosen thick mucus so it can be cleared more easily by coughing. Guafienesin is the active ingredient in many of these expectorants and is commonly used specifically to thin mucus in the airways. Delsym contains dextromethorphan, which acts as a cough suppressant rather than an mucus-thinning agent, so it doesn’t function as an expectorant. Tylenol is acetaminophen, used for pain or fever, not for mucus or coughing. Robitussin can be formulated with guaifenesin, but the ingredient most closely aligned with the role of an expectorant for chest congestion is guaifenesin. That’s why this option is the best choice.