Hi Casper,
There aren't too many CFers that I know on this forum that got pregnant without needing to use either Robitussin or Mucinex to help thin out the cervical mucus. My feeling is that half that did eventually get pregnant needed to do more than just Robitussin or Mucinex. I will most likely fall in that category.
I really have no idea if you can find this in Ireland since I'm from the Pennsylvania, United States. I will admit that Mucinex is pricey. Your better bet price-wise is Robitussin. I tend to buy them off of Ebay.
I have used both Robitussin and Mucinex. Mucinex tends to tick off my CF. I felt really sick and seemed to cough that much more while taking it. Robitussin was a much better choice for me.
With Robitussin, you take 3 teaspoons three times a day. You start it about 1 week prior to ovulation and stop using it about 3 days after ovulation (just in case). Charting and ovulation kits are very helpful in helping you determine when to start and stop Robitussin and/or Mucinex.
Mucinex I took the same way but in the pill form. I took it about 1 week prior to ovulation until about 3 days post ovulation.
Here is some other information that you might find useful...
<b>Robitussin works on the cervical mucus and increases your chances of getting pregnant
Robitussin is a popular brand of cough syrup and it might be surprising to consider its relation with fertility. But the fact is that this expectorant is used to loosen and thin mucus of a different kind too, called cervical mucus, in women. Robitussin is only a specific brand and any expectorant that contains guaifenesin as the only active ingredient can be used in its place. Generic versions are most likely available as well. Be sure to carefully inspect the ingredients list to make sure the ONLY active ingredient as guaifenesin. Any other ingredients can diminish the effect you are looking for.
What is the recommended dose of Robitussin?
The recommended dose for improving cervical mucus is two teaspoons (200 mg) taken orally three times per day. Recommended dosage is two teaspoons (200 mg) taken orally three times per day. If mucus still appears thick, you can take as the maximum dosage as listed on the label of the cough medicine. Water intake should be increased to encourage cervical mucus production and a full glass should take with each dose of guaifenesin.
If you re taking Clomid (clomiphene citrate, Serophene) as an ovulation inductor, it may help to know that it can cause hostile mucus in 30 percent or more of women using it. Higher doses of Clomid tend to be more associated with less cervical fluid and a thinner uterine lining, than the 50 mg dose and Robitussin can help to reverse this.
What cycle days should I take Robitussin?
Most doctors suggest taking Robitussin five days before and including the day of ovulation for a total of 6 days during your cycle.This helps provide the optimal environment to help the sperm survive and get to where they need to go.If you take Clomid, waiting until the day after the last Clomid pill is taken before starting Robitussin is suggested.
Is Robitussin available in pill form?
Guaifenesin is also available in pill format, but this format usually requires a Doctor's prescription. The actual cost of the pill format can be less expensive than the OTC liquid format but when you figure in the cost of the doctor's visit, there may not me much of a savings.</b>
<u><b>***One should buy the plain Robitussin kind with no letters after it. The only active ingredient is guaifenesin, and it contains 100 mg per teaspoon. It is very important to avoid the versions that contain decongestants as those may dry up cervical mucus. Also, there is some conflicting information about whether dextromethorphan, the DM in some cough medicine names, may be linked to birth defects such as neural tube defects and cleft palate.</b></u>
As far as Mucinex, I couldn't find anything to post that was really any good to you. You again would have to buy the plain version. I only took it during 1 cycle, but when I did I took 1 tablet twice a day. Even that, I couldn't tolerate. Some CFers take it as a daily therapy, but others "feel" sick from it. I've never had a problem with Robitussin.
Good luck! Keep us posted! <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0">