The cancer causing chemical benzene has been found in generic store-brand versions of Mucinex cold medicine, according to a new report by Bloomberg.
While both the brand-name and generic versions contain the same active ingredient, guaifenesin, and have similar packaging, the key difference lies in the inactive ingredients.
The brand-name medicine, made by Reckitt Benckiser, uses a benzene-free carbomer, while the generic versions sold by CVS, Walmart, Target, and Walgreens use a cheaper carbomer containing benzene to achieve the same 12-hour extended-release effect.
Bloomberg writes that despite international warnings, U.S. regulators have permitted the use of benzene in drugs for decades.
Recent tests have revealed dangerously high levels of the chemical in some U.S. products, sparking concern. The FDA announced plans to phase out benzene by 2025, but the deadline was extended to 2026 after pushback from the industry. . .
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Is that why it works?
Strangely, yes. The generic brands use benzene to achieve the 12‐hour release effect.
Oh you pussies. We keep Benzene on tap in the break room instead of coffee here. It's delicious and refreshing, and goes down smooth.
It's also a great remedy for the upset stomach you get from drinking too much benzene. And it has a nice ring to it. Complete with alternating double bonds.
But how much benzene is there in a normal dose? Concentration matters. You get benzene in your gasoline but where's the alarmist reaction to that? Your body releases acetone when it burns stored fat. Many people here on Poal stockpile lead metal. You ingest chemicals of all sorts constantly. Aren't those things worrying too? The concentration matters.
... and the unelected officials are constantly changing the "allowable limits". For instance, limits on water quality like arsenic, cadmium, lead, radon were reduced dramatically during the Obummer reign. They just can't leave shit alone.
... and the unelected officials are constantly changing the "allowable limits". For instance, limits on water quality like arsenic, cadmium, lead, radon were reduced dramatically during the Obummer reign. They just can't leave shit alone.
You and I both lived through the era of leaded gasoline. Think about that with regards to limits and regulation.
Can't disagree with no lead and catalytic converters. I remember driving through our local small city in the winter. Cars with bad carburetors were dumping raw fuel fumes out the exhaust pipes. Cars with bad rings were leaving a fog behind them. Slow traffic could make your eyes water at times. Prior to that, I don't think there were any automotive exhaust regulations. Air quality here has been great the past ~45 years. Yet they continue to tighten up the emission standards - and the price of cars goes up and up.
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