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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>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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