ADD CONDITION
Cold and Flu
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- Active ingredients
- Acetaminophen 325 mg
- Guaifenesin 200 mg
- Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
- Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
- Other brand names
- Dosage form
- Tablet, Film Coated
- Route
- Oral
- Prescription status
- OTC (over the counter)
- Pregnancy
- See Pregnancy Use Section
- Lactation
- See Lactation Use Section
- Marketed in the U.S.
- Since 2021
- Label revision date
- May 10, 2025
- Drug Information (PDF)
- Prescribing information, PDF file
- Active ingredients
- Acetaminophen 325 mg
- Guaifenesin 200 mg
- Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
- Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
- Other brand names
- Dosage form
- Tablet, Film Coated
- Route
- Oral
- Prescription status
- OTC (over the counter)
- CSA schedule
- Not a scheduled drug
- Pregnancy
- See Pregnancy Use Section
- Lactation
- See Lactation Use Section
- Marketed in the U.S.
- Since 2021
- Label revision date
- May 10, 2025
- Manufacturer
- Rite Aid Corporation
- Registration number
- M012
- NDC root
- 11822-5034
- Drug Information (PDF)
- Prescribing information, PDF file
If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.
If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.
Drug Overview
COLD & FLU SEVERE is a medication designed to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It helps alleviate cough, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, minor aches and pains, sinus pressure, sneezing, and a runny nose. The daytime formulation also aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive, while the nighttime version is formulated to help you sleep by relieving cough and reducing fever.
This product contains a combination of active ingredients, including Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan HBr, Guaifenesin, and Phenylephrine HCl for daytime relief, and Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HBr, and Phenylephrine HCl for nighttime use. It is important to note that COLD & FLU SEVERE is free of pseudoephedrine, a common decongestant.
Uses
This medication is designed to help you feel better when you're dealing with common cold and flu symptoms. It can temporarily relieve a variety of discomforts, including cough, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, minor aches and pains, sinus congestion and pressure, as well as sneezing and a runny nose, especially at night.
During the day, it helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making your coughs more productive. It also works to clear your nasal passages and can relieve cough to help you sleep better. Additionally, this medication temporarily reduces fever, providing you with some much-needed relief when you're not feeling well.
Dosage and Administration
When taking this medication, it's important to follow the instructions carefully. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 caplets every 4 hours. Make sure to swallow the caplets whole; do not crush, chew, or dissolve them. Remember, you should not exceed 10 caplets in a 24-hour period.
If the patient is under 12 years old, it's best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. Always adhere to the recommended dosage to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What to Avoid
It's important to be cautious when using this product. You should never take the DAYTIME and NIGHTTIME versions at the same time. Additionally, avoid using this product if you are currently taking any medication that contains acetaminophen (a common pain reliever) or if you have taken a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression or other conditions within the last two weeks. If you're unsure whether your medications contain these ingredients, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.
You should also refrain from using this product if you have had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients in the past. Always prioritize your safety and well-being by following these guidelines.
Side Effects
You should be aware of some important warnings and potential side effects when using this product. It contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 4,000 mg in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, be cautious of severe skin reactions, which may include symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you experience any of these, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.
You should also consult a doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, if your pain or cough worsens or lasts more than seven days, or if you develop new symptoms. Other signs to watch for include a worsening fever lasting more than three days, redness or swelling, or a cough that returns with a rash or headache. In children, excitability and marked drowsiness may occur, especially at night. It's advisable to avoid alcohol and be cautious when driving or operating machinery, as these can increase drowsiness.
Warnings and Precautions
This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you take more than 4,000 mg in 24 hours, use it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Be aware that acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately. If you have a severe sore throat that lasts more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult your doctor promptly.
Before using this product, talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: high blood pressure, liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, heart disease, glaucoma (especially at night), or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate. If you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than seven days, or if new symptoms arise, stop taking the product and contact your doctor. In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, even if no symptoms are present.
Overdose
If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. This is crucial for both adults and children, even if you don’t see any signs or symptoms of an overdose.
Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference, so don’t hesitate to get help.
Pregnancy Use
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.
Lactation Use
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.
Pediatric Use
If you are considering this medication for your child, it's important to know that children under 12 years old should consult a doctor before use. This is to ensure safety and proper guidance. You may notice that some children experience excitability or marked drowsiness, especially when taken at night.
For children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours, but be careful not to exceed 10 caplets in a 24-hour period. Always follow these guidelines to help keep your child safe and healthy.
Geriatric Use
If you are an older adult or a caregiver, it's important to be aware of a few considerations when using this medication. While there are no specific dosage adjustments or safety concerns noted for elderly patients, you should always consult with a doctor before starting the medication, especially if you have conditions like high blood pressure, liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, heart disease, or glaucoma.
Additionally, be cautious when driving or operating machinery, as the medication may cause drowsiness, particularly if taken at night. It's also wise to avoid alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers, as these can increase feelings of drowsiness. Always prioritize safety and communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any concerns.
Renal Impairment
If you have kidney problems, it's important to consult your doctor before using this medication, especially if you experience difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Your healthcare provider can help determine if this medication is safe for you.
Additionally, be cautious when driving or operating machinery, as renal impairment can affect your ability to perform these tasks safely. Always prioritize your health and safety by following your doctor's advice.
Hepatic Impairment
If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using products that contain acetaminophen. Taking more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period, using it alongside other medications that also contain acetaminophen, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product can lead to severe liver damage.
Before using this product, you should consult your doctor if you have liver disease. They can provide guidance on safe usage and any necessary adjustments to your dosage. Your health and safety are paramount, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.
Drug Interactions
It's important to be cautious when taking this medication, especially regarding potential interactions with other drugs. You should avoid using it alongside any other products that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. Additionally, if you are currently taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)—a type of medication often used for depression or certain other conditions—or have taken one in the past two weeks, you should not use this medication.
Before starting this medication, it's wise to consult with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin, or if you use sedatives or tranquilizers, particularly at night. Combining alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers with this medication can increase drowsiness, so discussing your full list of medications and any alcohol use with your healthcare provider is essential for your safety.
Storage and Handling
To ensure the best quality and safety of your product, store it at room temperature, ideally around 25°C (77°F). It’s acceptable for the temperature to vary between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F), but try to keep it within this range. Always check the outer package before use; if it’s opened or if the blister is torn or broken, do not use the product. Additionally, make sure to look at the end flap for the expiration date and lot number to confirm its validity.
Handling your product with care is essential for safety. Always keep it in a secure, dry place to maintain its integrity. Following these guidelines will help ensure that you use the product safely and effectively.
Additional Information
You should take this medication orally, with adults and children aged 12 and over advised to swallow 2 caplets every 4 hours. It's important not to crush, chew, or dissolve the caplets, and you should not exceed 10 caplets in a 24-hour period. If you are under 12 years old, consult a doctor before use. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, make sure to speak with a healthcare professional before taking this medication.
Additionally, it's crucial to be aware of the potential for medicine abuse, especially among teens. For more information on this topic, you can visit www.StopMedicineAbuse.org.
FAQ
What is COLD & FLU SEVERE used for?
COLD & FLU SEVERE temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms such as cough, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, and minor aches and pains.
How should I take COLD & FLU SEVERE?
Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 caplets every 4 hours, swallowing them whole. Do not exceed 10 caplets in 24 hours.
Are there any warnings I should be aware of?
Yes, this product contains acetaminophen, which can cause severe liver damage if taken in excess. Avoid using it with other acetaminophen-containing drugs or if consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily.
What should I do if I experience side effects?
Stop use and consult a doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, or if symptoms worsen or persist beyond the recommended duration.
Can I use COLD & FLU SEVERE if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before using COLD & FLU SEVERE.
Is there a specific dosage for children?
For children under 12 years, you should ask a doctor before use.
What are the active ingredients in COLD & FLU SEVERE?
The daytime formulation includes Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan HBr, Guaifenesin, and Phenylephrine HCl, while the nighttime formulation includes Acetaminophen, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Dextromethorphan HBr, and Phenylephrine HCl.
What should I avoid while taking COLD & FLU SEVERE?
Avoid alcoholic beverages, as they may increase drowsiness, and do not take this product with other drugs containing acetaminophen.
What should I do in case of an overdose?
In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
Packaging Info
Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cold and Flu (acetaminophen, chlorpheniramine maleate, dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.
Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tablet, Film Coated |
| ||
Kit Contents Each carton contains 2 components packaged together. Regulatory status — Marketed All current FDA data sets list this NDC as actively marketed. FDA record dates for this NDC:
Part 1 — Tablet
Part 2 — Tablet
| ||||
Drug Information (PDF)
This file contains official product information for Cold and Flu, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.
Description
NDC 11822-5034-8 is a combination medication indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with cold and flu. The formulation includes active ingredients comparable to those found in Tylenol® COLD + FLU SEVERE Day and Night products.
The daytime formulation contains acetaminophen, dextromethorphan HBr, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine HCl, serving as a pain reliever and fever reducer, cough suppressant, expectorant, and nasal decongestant. It is indicated for the relief of fever, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, cough, mucus, and chest congestion.
The nighttime formulation includes acetaminophen, chlorpheniramine maleate, dextromethorphan HBr, and phenylephrine HCl, functioning as a pain reliever and fever reducer, antihistamine, cough suppressant, and nasal decongestant. It is indicated for the relief of fever, headache, sore throat, runny nose, cough, and nasal congestion.
This product is formulated without pseudoephedrine and is available in a package containing 16 daytime caplets and 8 nighttime caplets. The packaging is tamper-evident; do not use if the package is opened or if the blister unit is torn, broken, or shows any signs of tampering. This product is not manufactured or distributed by Johnson & Johnson Corporation, the owner of the registered trademarks Tylenol® COLD + FLU SEVERE Day and Tylenol® COLD + FLU SEVERE Night.
Uses and Indications
This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of common cold and flu symptoms, including cough, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, minor aches and pains, sinus congestion and pressure, sneezing, and runny nose (for nighttime use only). It assists in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions to enhance cough productivity (for daytime use only) and aids in clearing nasal passages. Additionally, it provides relief from cough to facilitate sleep and temporarily reduces fever.
There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.
Dosage and Administration
Adults and children aged 12 years and older are instructed to take 2 caplets orally every 4 hours as needed. It is essential that the caplets are swallowed whole; they should not be crushed, chewed, or dissolved. The maximum allowable dosage is 10 caplets within a 24-hour period. For children under 12 years of age, it is advised to consult a physician before administration.
Contraindications
The concurrent use of DAYTIME and NIGHTTIME products is contraindicated. Additionally, this product should not be used in conjunction with any other medication containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription; if there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in a medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.
Use is also contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for conditions such as depression, psychiatric or emotional disorders, or Parkinson’s disease, and for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. If there is uncertainty about whether a prescription medication contains an MAOI, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.
Lastly, this product is contraindicated in individuals with a history of allergic reactions to it or any of its ingredients.
Warnings and Precautions
This product contains acetaminophen, which carries significant risks for liver damage. Healthcare professionals should advise patients that severe liver damage may occur if they exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, use other medications containing acetaminophen concurrently, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.
Patients should be alerted to the potential for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen. Symptoms may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of any skin reaction, patients must discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.
In cases of severe sore throat that persists for more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients should be instructed to consult a physician promptly.
General precautions should be taken when considering the use of this product. Patients should be advised to consult a healthcare provider prior to use if they have any of the following conditions: high blood pressure, liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, heart disease, glaucoma (specifically for nighttime use), a cough that produces excessive phlegm, difficulty urinating due to prostate enlargement, or persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Additionally, patients with breathing problems such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis should use caution, particularly at night.
In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial. Patients should be instructed to seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center without delay, as prompt intervention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.
Patients should discontinue use and contact a healthcare provider if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond seven days; if new symptoms arise; if fever worsens or lasts more than three days; if redness or swelling occurs; or if a cough recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.
Side Effects
Patients using this product should be aware of several important warnings and potential adverse reactions.
Severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period, use other medications containing acetaminophen concurrently, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product. Additionally, acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If any of these symptoms occur, patients are advised to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.
In cases of severe sore throat that persists for more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients should consult a healthcare professional promptly.
Patients should also stop use and contact a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than seven days; if new symptoms arise; if fever worsens or lasts more than three days; if redness or swelling is present; or if cough recurs with a rash or headache that lasts, as these may indicate a serious condition.
Additional adverse reactions noted include excitability, particularly in children, and marked drowsiness, which may occur during nighttime use. Patients are advised to avoid alcoholic beverages, as well as sedatives and tranquilizers, which may enhance drowsiness. Caution is recommended when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery during nighttime use due to the potential for increased drowsiness.
Drug Interactions
Concurrent use of this medication with other products containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, is contraindicated due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose.
The use of this medication is also contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease, as well as for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI.
Patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication, as there may be an increased risk of bleeding.
Additionally, caution is advised for patients who are using sedatives or tranquilizers, particularly at nighttime, as these substances may enhance drowsiness when taken in conjunction with this medication. Monitoring for increased sedation is recommended in such cases.
Packaging & NDC
Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cold and Flu (acetaminophen, chlorpheniramine maleate, dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.
Details | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tablet, Film Coated |
| ||
Kit Contents Each carton contains 2 components packaged together. Regulatory status — Marketed All current FDA data sets list this NDC as actively marketed. FDA record dates for this NDC:
Part 1 — Tablet
Part 2 — Tablet
| ||||
Pediatric Use
Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. In children, particularly during nighttime administration, excitability may occur, and marked drowsiness is also a potential side effect.
For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours, with a maximum of 10 caplets in a 24-hour period. Caution is advised when administering this medication to pediatric patients due to the potential for adverse effects.
Geriatric Use
Elderly patients may not require specific dosage adjustments or face unique safety concerns based on the available information. However, it is advisable for geriatric patients to consult a healthcare provider prior to use, particularly if they have pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure, liver disease, diabetes, thyroid disease, heart disease, or glaucoma, especially when using the medication at nighttime.
Caution is recommended for elderly patients when engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery, particularly during nighttime use. Additionally, the concurrent use of alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers may enhance drowsiness, which is a consideration that should be taken into account for this population. Regular monitoring and assessment of the patient's response to treatment are advisable to ensure safety and efficacy.
Pregnancy
Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully considered in these populations to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus or infant.
Lactation
Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data regarding the excretion of this medication in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.
Renal Impairment
Patients with renal impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they experience difficulty in urination due to enlargement of the prostate gland. Caution is advised when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery, especially in individuals with reduced kidney function.
Hepatic Impairment
Patients with hepatic impairment should exercise caution when using this product, as it contains acetaminophen, which is associated with the risk of severe liver damage. It is critical that patients do not exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should avoid concurrent use with other medications that contain acetaminophen, as this may further increase the risk of liver injury.
Patients who consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily should refrain from using this product, as alcohol can exacerbate the potential for liver damage.
Before initiating treatment, patients with known liver disease are advised to consult a healthcare professional to assess the appropriateness of this product for their condition. Monitoring of liver function may be warranted in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment.
Overdosage
In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt medical intervention is crucial for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.
Healthcare professionals should be aware that the lack of immediate symptoms does not preclude the potential for serious health consequences. Therefore, it is essential to monitor the patient closely and provide comprehensive care as needed.
Nonclinical Toxicology
No teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Similarly, there is no information regarding non-teratogenic effects. The nonclinical toxicology section does not provide any additional insights. Furthermore, there is a lack of information concerning animal pharmacology and toxicology.
Postmarketing Experience
Acetaminophen has been associated with severe skin reactions in postmarketing experience reports. Symptoms of these reactions may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is advised to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.
Patient Counseling
Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of an overdose, emphasizing that prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.
Patients should be instructed not to take DAYTIME and NIGHTTIME products concurrently, as this could lead to adverse effects. It is important to communicate the necessity of adhering to the recommended dosage and to avoid exceeding it.
For those using the NIGHTTIME product, healthcare providers should inform patients that excitability may occur, particularly in children. Additionally, marked drowsiness is a potential side effect, and patients should be cautioned against consuming alcoholic beverages, as this may exacerbate drowsiness.
Patients should also be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery while using the NIGHTTIME product, as drowsiness can impair their ability to perform these tasks safely. Furthermore, the use of alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers in conjunction with the NIGHTTIME product may increase drowsiness, and patients should be made aware of this risk.
Storage and Handling
The product is supplied in a tamper-evident package. It should not be used if the outer package is opened or if the blister is torn or broken. The recommended storage temperature is 25°C (77°F), with permissible excursions between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). For reference, the expiration date and lot number can be found on the end flap of the packaging.
Additional Clinical Information
Patients should be informed that the medication is administered orally. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours, with a maximum of 10 caplets in a 24-hour period. It is important to swallow the caplets whole and not to crush, chew, or dissolve them. For children under 12 years, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised before use.
Clinicians should counsel patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to seek advice from a health professional prior to using the medication. Additionally, information regarding the potential for medicine abuse, particularly among teens, can be found at www.StopMedicineAbuse.org. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests or postmarketing experiences.
Drug Information (PDF)
This file contains official product information for Cold and Flu, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.