What is the best expectorant for cough?

By our independent rating, mucinex d currently ranks highest among Expectorant drugs used for cough. Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data — always consult a professional.

Which expectorant drugs treat cough?

pharmaranks lists 2 Expectorant products indicated for cough, per FDA drug-label data — each independently rated and ranked above.

How are these ranked?

By our independent score, currently based on FDA regulatory recall-safety data (the methodology blends additional sources as they come online). See the How we rate page.

Best Expectorant for cough

2 Expectorant drugs indicated for cough, ranked by our independent rating. The current highest-rated is mucinex d. Compare them with all treatments for cough or the full Expectorant class. Not medical advice — always consult a professional.

Rated against independent regulatory sources·Last updated June 7, 2026·How we rate

Top expectorant for cough: 1. Mucinex D · 2. Mucinex

Best-rated Expectorant for cough, ranked by pharmaranks score
#	Drug	Rating	Type	Typical price
1	Mucinex D	Not yet rated	Over-the-counter	$0	View →
2	Mucinex	Not yet rated	Over-the-counter	$0	View →

Full ranking · 2 drugs

mucinex d

Over-the-counterFDA-sourced

New

Uses ■ helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to rid the bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus and make coughs more productive.

expectoranthistamine-1 receptor antagonistopioid agonist

Typical price

From ~$0.01· 6 forms

View details →

Frequently asked

What is the best expectorant for cough?: By our independent rating, mucinex d currently ranks highest among Expectorant drugs used for cough. Ratings are based on FDA regulatory (recall-safety) data — always consult a professional.
Which expectorant drugs treat cough?: pharmaranks lists 2 Expectorant products indicated for cough, per FDA drug-label data — each independently rated and ranked above.
How are these ranked?: By our independent score, currently based on FDA regulatory recall-safety data (the methodology blends additional sources as they come online). See the How we rate page.