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Real members of MGteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Hello all! I am experiencing tons of mucus and a chronic cough, often keeping me up at night.

A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Wilmington, NC

Thinking it might be exacerbated by mycophenolate and prednisone combo and wondering if anyone knows if it’s safe to take Mucinex while also on such medications. Sometimes I think I’ve got an infection but my neurologist seems to think it’s not and doesn’t appear comfortable prescribing an antibiotic. Has anyone been in a similar boat?

February 24
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Answer Summary

Members shared their experiences with chronic mucus and coughing while on mycophenolate and prednisone, with many noting that these symptoms... Read more

Members shared their experiences with chronic mucus and coughing while on mycophenolate and prednisone, with many noting that these symptoms can be directly related to myasthenia gravis itself rather than medication side effects. Several members offered practical strategies including consulting a pharmacist about Mucinex interactions, checking for swallowing difficulties that might contribute to symptoms, trying natural remedies like pineapple juice or ginger tea with honey, and requesting a referral to a pulmonary specialist for more targeted treatment options like nebulizers. A recurring theme was the importance of building a complete care team, being cautious about potential ingredient sensitivities in over-the-counter medications, and considering dietary changes to reduce inflammation and mucus production.

A MGteam Member

Try pineapple juice or mullien tea , ask your pcp is their something you could use that won't interfere with your meds or MG ,I have copd and I make tea out of ginger that you buy in a jar already grated up and you keep in refrigerator , I use 1/2 teaspoon put it in a tea strainer and put it in a cup and pour boiling water over it let it seep for 3-5 minutes then I add a little cinnamon and honey it helps break up my mucus , I do know mestinon produces mucus also don't know about aother❤

February 28
A MGteam Member

Hey Kev,I experienced that before I even started any meds, it's a mg thing! Couldn't find anything that gave me any relief!

February 28
MGteam

Is it safe to take Mucinex with your MG medications?

That's a really frustrating situation to be in, especially when it's affecting your sleep. Regarding Mucinex specifically with mycophenolate and prednisone, it's important to check with your pharmacist before adding any over-the-counter medication. They can review your Show Full Answer

Is it safe to take Mucinex with your MG medications?

That's a really frustrating situation to be in, especially when it's affecting your sleep. Regarding Mucinex specifically with mycophenolate and prednisone, it's important to check with your pharmacist before adding any over-the-counter medication. They can review your complete medication list for potential interactions and help ensure it's safe for you.

Your pharmacist is a great resource for these questions and can often provide quick guidance without needing an appointment. About the mucus and your medications:

You're onto something with your observation. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors can increase mucus production, which might contribute to what you're experiencing. While you mentioned mycophenolate and prednisone, if you're also taking pyridostigmine (Mestinon), that could be a factor.

Prednisone can also cause sleep issues, which might be making the nighttime coughing even more disruptive to your rest. The infection concern:

Your neurologist's caution about antibiotics makes sense from an MG perspective. Here's why this is tricky:

* Infections can trigger MG flares and even myasthenic crisis
* However, some antibiotics can also worsen MG symptoms
* Your immunosuppressive medications (mycophenolate and prednisone) do increase infection risk

If symptoms persist or worsen, it might be worth asking your neurologist to reconsider whether testing for infection would be appropriate, or whether adjusting your MG medications might help with the mucus issue.

February 24
A MGteam Member

Thank you so much. Very interesting!!!

February 28
A MGteam Member

Don't know if this is true or could help so I pass it on because I remembered your complaint with mucus. WWI soldiers got severe mucus and breathing problems. There was a solution a lung doctor in Arizona rediscovered from WW1. Don't have details but you many be able to Google it.

February 27

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