disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
uses
This combination medication is used to temporarily treat cough and runny/stuffy nose (nasal congestion) caused by infections (such as the common cold), allergies (such as hay fever), and other breathing illnesses. This product is usually not used for ongoing cough from smoking or long-term breathing problems (such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema) unless directed by your doctor. Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It works by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, clearing congestion, and making breathing easier. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant (sympathomimetic). It reduces nasal congestion by narrowing the blood vessels in the nose.If you are self-treating with this medication, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to be sure it is right for you.
See also Precautions section.
)Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients
See also Drug Interactions section.
Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).
how to use
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. To prevent trouble sleeping, do not take this medication close to bedtime. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.Guaifenesin may have a bitter taste. Swallow capsules and tablets whole. Some tablets may be split if they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Chewable tablets may be swallowed whole or chewed.Dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed.Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication. Fluids will help to break up mucus and clear congestion.Caffeine can increase the side effects of this medication. Avoid drinking large amounts of beverages containing caffeine (coffee, tea, colas), eating large amounts of chocolate, or taking nonprescription products that contain caffeine.Tell your doctor if your condition is accompanied by headache that doesn't go away, fever, severe sore throat, rash, or if it lasts, returns, or gets worse after 7 days. These may be signs of a serious medical problem. Get medical help right away if you think you may have a serious medical problem.
side effects
Nausea or headache may occur. If either of these effects lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: dizziness, fainting, fast/irregular/pounding heartbeat, mental/mood changes (such as anxiety, confusion, nervousness, irritability), shaking (tremor), trouble sleeping, difficult/painful urination.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
precautions
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to pseudoephedrine or guaifenesin; or if you have any other allergies. Also tell your doctor if you have had a bad reaction to similar drugs (sympathomimetics such as ephedrine, phenylephrine). This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma, smoker's cough), cough with blood or large amounts of mucus, high blood pressure, heart disease (such as chest pain, heart failure, heart attack), fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, diabetes, a certain eye problem (glaucoma), difficulty urinating (such as due to enlarged prostate), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).Liquid products or chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Liquid products may also contain alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).Caution is advised when using this product in children because they may be more sensitive to its side effects, especially nervousness, irritability, and high blood pressure.
See also Uses Section.
)Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially fast/irregular heartbeat, dizziness, problems urinating, trouble sleeping, or confusion.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.The pseudoephedrine in this product passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. It is unknown if guaifenesin passes into breast milk. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before breast-feeding.
drug interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some drugs that may interact with this product include: other decongestants (taken by mouth or sprayed into the nose), tricyclic antidepressants (such as nortriptyline, amitriptyline).Taking MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine) during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.Pseudoephedrine may decrease the effectiveness of some blood pressure medications (such as beta blockers, guanethidine, methyldopa, mecamylamine).Some products have ingredients that could raise your heart rate or blood pressure. Tell your pharmacist what products you are using, and ask how to use them safely (especially cough-and-cold products or diet aids).Pseudoephedrine and guaifenesin are available in both prescription and nonprescription products. Check the labels of all your medications carefully to make sure you are not taking more than one product containing these medications.The guaifenesin in this product can affect the results of certain lab tests (such as urine levels of certain acids). Make sure laboratory personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe dizziness/fainting, fast irregular heartbeat, slow/fast/shallow breathing, hallucinations, seizures.
notes
If your doctor prescribed this medication, do not share this medication with others.Keep all medical and lab appointments.This medication is for temporary use only. Do not take this medication for more than 7 days unless your doctor tells you to do so. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts longer than 7 days.
missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
storage
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
document information
Information last revised January 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
FAQs
What medications interact with NyQuil? ›
Avoid taking isocarboxazid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, or tranylcypromine during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication.
What are the side effects of NyQuil pills? ›- headache, sleep problems (insomnia);
- upset stomach, diarrhea or constipation;
- dry eyes, blurred vision, dry mouth or nose;
- mild dizziness or drowsiness, trouble concentrating;
- feeling restless or excited (especially in children); or.
- mild skin rash.
Some products that may interact with this drug are: antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray), ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, rolapitant. Taking certain MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction.
What are the side effects of Vicks cold and flu pills? ›Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, nervousness, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
What is bad to mix with NyQuil? ›Doxylamine, one of the other ingredients in Nyquil, can cause extreme sedation when mixed with alcohol. Combining these two substances can increase your chances of experiencing an overdose. Overdose can occur when mixing alcohol and Nyquil, and sometimes can be difficult to notice.
What can NyQuil not be mixed with? ›Be careful combining NyQuil with other medications that cause drowsiness, like sedatives. Examples include benzodiazepines and other sleep medications. Other medications that cause drowsiness include OTC medications that contain diphenhydramine or doxylamine (which are also in some Nyquil products).
Who should avoid NyQuil? ›Nyquil Cold and Flu shouldn't be used in people with certain medical conditions, for example if you have long-term coughing caused by conditions such as asthma, emphysema, smoking, and chronic bronchitis.
Does NyQuil affect your blood pressure? ›Decongestants provide relief by narrowing blood vessels to reduce nasal stuffiness, but this can potentially affect other blood vessels, which may increase blood pressure.
Is NyQuil safe for high blood pressure? ›Manufactured by Vicks, there are different NyQuil Cold and Flu products,⁶ including one specifically formulated for people with high blood pressure. Vicks NyQuil High Blood Pressure Cold and Flu Medicine are marketed as a product that will safely relieve cold and flu symptoms in people with high blood pressure.
How long does NyQuil stay in your system? ›How long does it take to get NyQuil out of your system? It takes about 65 to 78 hours to get all the ingredients from NyQuil Cold and Flu Nighttime Relief Liquid out of your system.
What opioid is in NyQuil? ›
Examples of well-known opioids used medically in the U.S.: Dextromethorphan (available in the U.S. without prescription as, e.g., NyQuil, Robitussin, TheraFlu, Vicks)
What happens if you take NyQuil and Tylenol together? ›No, you should not take Tylenol and NyQuil together. Both contain acetaminophen. Taking them together can result in an overdose of acetaminophen, which can cause liver damage. Severe overdoses can even lead to death.
Can Vicks cause side effects? ›What are the side effects of Vicks Vaporub (Camphor, Eucalyptus, And Menthol)? Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.
Does Vicks VapoRub raise blood pressure? ›Topical nasal decongestants such as Afrin (oxymetazoline), Neo-Synephrine (phenylephrine), Privine (naphazoline), and Vicks VapoRub Inhaler (l-desoxyephedrine/levmetamfetamine) can also cause an increase in blood pressure.
Can I take NyQuil and ibuprofen? ›Advil/ibuprofen is in a different drug class than Tylenol/ibuprofen, so it is fine to combine ibuprofen doses with Dayquil/Nyquil.
Is it bad to sleep with NyQuil? ›Though NyQuil contains ingredients like doxylamine that are often prescribed for sleep, relying on NyQuil for sleep is not advised. Besides doxylamine, NyQuil contains other active ingredients like alcohol that should not be used for sleep.
Can I take 2 doses of NyQuil at once? ›Do not give Nyquil more often than every 6 hours and do not give more than 4 doses per day. For NyQuil liquid caps the dosage is: Teenagers aged 12 years or older: 2 capsules every 6 hours if needed. Adults: 2 capsules every 6 hours if needed.
What's the difference between DayQuil and NyQuil? ›Official answer. The main difference is that DayQuil is a non-drowsy formula with the decongestant phenylephrine to help treat your cold or flu symptoms during the day, while many NyQuil products contain a sedating antihistamine and can help you sleep at night.
What is a good substitute for NyQuil? ›Mucinex and NyQuil are both products that relieve symptoms of the common cold or flu. The symptoms they treat are different. You can take Mucinex and NyQuil together safely if you follow the recommended dosage for each drug.
What ingredient makes you sleepy with NyQuil? ›Most formulations of NyQuil contain three active ingredients: doxylamine succinate, dextromethorphan, and acetaminophen. Both doxylamine succinate and dextromethorphan have the potential to cause drowsiness.
What kind of alcohol is in NyQuil? ›
Alcohol (ethanol) is considered an inactive ingredient in NyQuil. Ethanol is another name for alcohol, a common type of alcohol used in medicine.
What is the FDA warning about NyQuil? ›Even if you don't eat the chicken, you could be ingesting large amounts of NyQuil by inhaling the medicine's vapors while cooking it or just standing in the room while it's cooking. The FDA warns this inhalation could lead to lung damage.
Why does NyQuil make me feel weird? ›Dextromethorphan HBr
You will develop a feeling of dissociation, detachment from yourself, and the environment. Low doses of DXM can also induce a NyQuil high that give you psychedelic trips if your body is unusually slow in metabolizing it.
About NyQuil
Dextromethorphan is also a stimulant, but symptom relief plus the calming effects of other ingredients ensures that the overall effect is one of relaxation. For most people. Although lingering drowsiness is a common side effect, many people who take NyQuil experience nervous anxiety instead.
Nyquil Cold and Flu shouldn't be used in people with certain medical conditions, for example if you have long-term coughing caused by conditions such as asthma, emphysema, smoking, and chronic bronchitis.
Does NyQuil interact with blood pressure meds? ›If you're taking medication to control your high blood pressure, combining it with certain types of antihistamine may affect your heart rate and your blood pressure. Therefore, if you have high blood pressure, you should consult your doctor before taking any NyQuil Cold and Flu products.
Is it bad to take NyQuil before bed? ›Though NyQuil contains ingredients like doxylamine that are often prescribed for sleep, relying on NyQuil for sleep is not advised. Besides doxylamine, NyQuil contains other active ingredients like alcohol that should not be used for sleep.
Why do I feel weird after taking NyQuil? ›Dextromethorphan HBr
You will develop a feeling of dissociation, detachment from yourself, and the environment. Low doses of DXM can also induce a NyQuil high that give you psychedelic trips if your body is unusually slow in metabolizing it.
That's because decongestants such as pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, phenylephrine, naphazoline and oxymetazoline can increase your blood pressure and heart rate.
What nighttime cold medicine can I take with high blood pressure? ›If you have a history of high blood pressure, there are cold medications specifically designed for you. One such medication is Coricidin HBP and doesn't contain a decongestant. Another option for nasal congestion is to use nasal sprays which do not affect blood pressure.
How much Tylenol is in NyQuil? ›
| Active ingredients (in each LiquiCap) | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Acetaminophen 325 mg | Pain reliever/ fever reducer |
| Dextromethorphan HBr 15 mg | Cough suppressant |
| Doxylamine succinate 6.25 mg | Antihistamine |
FAQs. Q: What's the difference between NyQuil and NyQuil SEVERE? A: NyQuil SEVERE delivers maximum symptom-fighting ingredients* to relieve your worst cold symptoms. Besides the active ingredients in NyQuil, NyQuil SEVERE contains 10 mg of phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant.