US Mucinex cold medicine may contain cancer-causing benzene

Benzene, a known carcinogen, has been discovered in Mucinex (guaifenesin) generics in CVS, Walgreens, Target and other chain stores, according to Bloomberg.

Carbomers — which are thickening agents — used for the extended-release versions of cold medicine might contain benzene, according to a Bloomberg analysis of government data. The chemical appears in multiple products — including dyes, detergents and some plastics — and prolonged exposure can cause leukemia and lymphoma.

The FDA has warned drugmakers about the risk of benzene contamination, and multiple recalls followed. By 2026, the United States Pharmacopeia plans to omit carbomers that are manufactured with benzene, Bloomberg reported.

Millions of consumers may have unknowingly purchased benzene-containing drugs, according to a Bloomberg analysis of government data.

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