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Daytime Severe 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
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Capsule
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
January 14, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Capsule
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
January 14, 2025
Manufacturer
CVS HEALTH CORP
Registration number
M012
NDC root
51316-525

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Drug Overview

This medication is designed to temporarily relieve common cold and flu symptoms, helping you feel more comfortable when you're under the weather. It works by addressing various issues such as nasal and sinus congestion, cough from throat and bronchial irritation, minor aches and pains, headaches, fever, and sore throat.

By reducing swelling in the nasal passages, it promotes easier breathing and helps clear mucus from your airways, making coughs more productive. This can be particularly helpful when you're dealing with congestion and discomfort associated with colds or the flu.

Uses

This medication is designed to temporarily relieve a variety of common cold and flu symptoms. If you're dealing with nasal or sinus congestion and pressure, this product can help reduce swelling in your nasal passages, making it easier for you to breathe. It also addresses minor aches and pains, headaches, fever, and sore throats.

In addition to easing these discomforts, it promotes drainage in your nasal and sinus areas and helps loosen phlegm (mucus). This can make your coughs more productive by clearing out bothersome mucus from your bronchial passageways. Overall, this medication aims to provide you with relief so you can feel more comfortable while you recover.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to take this medication exactly as directed. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 softgels with a glass of water every 4 hours. However, make sure not to exceed 8 softgels in a 24-hour period to avoid any potential side effects.

If you have children between the ages of 4 and 12, it's best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. For children under 4 years old, you should not use this product at all. Always follow these guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

It's important to be cautious when using this medication. You should not take it alongside any other drugs that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication has acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, do not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for conditions like depression or Parkinson's disease, or for two weeks after stopping an MAOI. Again, if you're uncertain about your medications, reach out to a healthcare professional.

Always follow the dosing instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount. Taking more than directed can lead to serious health risks. Your safety is paramount, so if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider.

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 8 softgels in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any skin issues, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

It's also important to consult a doctor if you have a severe sore throat that lasts more than 2 days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. You should stop using the product and contact a doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or have trouble sleeping, if your pain or cough worsens or lasts more than a week, or if you develop new symptoms. Always talk to your doctor before using this product if you have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other specific health conditions.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 8 softgels in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Be aware that acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rash. If you experience any skin reaction, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately. Additionally, if you have a sore throat that is severe, lasts more than 2 days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult your doctor promptly.

You should stop using this product and contact your doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or have trouble sleeping. Also, seek medical advice if your pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days, if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if you notice any redness, swelling, or new symptoms. If you experience a cough that returns or occurs with a rash or headache that lasts, it's important to consult a healthcare professional.

In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. Quick medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if you do not notice any immediate signs or symptoms.

Overdose

Taking more than 8 softgels of this product in a 24-hour period can lead to severe liver damage. It's also important to be cautious if you are using other medications that contain acetaminophen, as combining them with this product can increase the risk of liver harm. Additionally, consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product can also result in serious liver issues.

If you suspect an overdose, look for signs such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, confusion, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes). If you experience any of these symptoms or believe you have taken too much, seek immediate medical help. Always prioritize your health and safety by following the recommended dosage guidelines.

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 have a child aged 4 to under 12 years, it's important to consult with a doctor before using this medication. For children under 4 years old, you should not use this product at all.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 softgels taken with water every 4 hours, but be careful not to exceed 8 softgels in a 24-hour period. Always follow these guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of your child.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines, dosage adjustments, or monitoring requirements mentioned for your condition in the provided information. This means that the standard recommendations for medication use may apply to you, but it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help ensure that any medications you take are safe and effective for your specific health needs.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using this product, as it contains acetaminophen. Taking more than 8 softgels in a 24-hour period can lead to severe liver damage. This is the maximum daily amount, and you should also avoid combining it with other medications that contain acetaminophen or consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks each day while using this product.

To protect your liver, always follow the recommended dosage and be mindful of your overall alcohol intake. If you have any concerns about how this product may affect your liver health, please consult your healthcare provider for personalized 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 medications that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. Additionally, if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)—which is a type of medication used for depression, certain psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease—or if you have stopped taking one in the last two weeks, you should not use this medication.

If you are taking warfarin, a blood-thinning medication, it's essential to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this drug. Always discuss any medications or tests with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, it’s important to store it at a temperature that does not exceed 25°C (77°F). Keeping it within this temperature range helps maintain its quality and performance.

When handling the product, make sure to do so with care to avoid any damage. Always follow any specific instructions provided for use to ensure safety and effectiveness. If you have any questions about disposal or further handling, please refer to the guidelines provided with your product.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What symptoms does this drug temporarily relieve?

This drug temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms, including nasal congestion, sinus pressure, cough, minor aches and pains, headache, fever, and sore throat.

How should I take this drug?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 softgels with water every 4 hours, not exceeding 8 softgels in 24 hours. For children aged 4 to under 12 years, consult a doctor.

Are there any contraindications for this drug?

Do not use this drug with any other product containing acetaminophen or if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).

What should I do if I experience severe skin reactions?

If you notice symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash, stop using the drug and seek medical help immediately.

What should I do in case of overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, as quick medical attention is critical.

Can I use this drug if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before using this drug.

What are the liver warnings associated with this drug?

This drug contains acetaminophen, and severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 8 softgels in 24 hours, use it with other acetaminophen-containing drugs, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it.

What should I do if my symptoms worsen?

Stop use and consult a doctor if you experience worsening pain, nasal congestion, cough lasting more than 7 days, or fever lasting more than 3 days.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Daytime Severe Cold and Flu (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Daytime Severe Cold and Flu.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Daytime Severe Cold and Flu, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

The product, identified by SPL code 34089-3, is a formulation comprising both active and inactive ingredients. The specific active ingredients are not detailed in the provided information. Similarly, the inactive ingredients are unspecified. The physical characteristics of the product, including its appearance, are also not described. The chemical name of the product remains unspecified.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold and influenza. Specifically, it addresses the following symptoms: nasal congestion, sinus congestion and pressure, cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, minor aches and pains, headache, fever, and sore throat.

Additionally, this drug reduces swelling of the nasal passages, temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose, promotes nasal and/or sinus drainage, and helps to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions. This action aids in clearing the bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus, thereby making coughs more productive.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

The medication should be taken only as directed. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 softgels taken with water every 4 hours, not to exceed 8 softgels within a 24-hour period.

For children aged 4 to under 12 years, it is advised to consult a physician for appropriate dosing. The use of this medication is not recommended for children under 4 years of age.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

Patients should not use this product 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.

Additionally, this product is contraindicated for individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing such treatment. MAOIs are typically prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. If there is any doubt about the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

Furthermore, it is essential to adhere to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount while using this product.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage, which is a maximum of 8 softgels in a 24-hour period. Caution is particularly warranted if patients are concurrently using other medications containing acetaminophen or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Acetaminophen has been associated with severe skin reactions. Symptoms indicative of such reactions may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. Should any of these symptoms manifest, patients must be instructed to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

In cases of severe sore throat that persists for more than two days, or if it is accompanied or followed by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients should be advised to consult a healthcare provider without delay.

Patients should be instructed to stop use and seek medical advice if they experience any of the following: nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than seven days; fever that worsens or lasts more than three days; presence of redness or swelling; occurrence of new symptoms; or if a cough recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache lasting.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is essential. Patients should be directed to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical help right away, as prompt intervention is critical for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

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 the maximum daily dosage of 8 softgels within a 24-hour period, take this product in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, 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.

Patients should also be cautious if they experience a severe sore throat that persists for more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, as they should consult a doctor promptly.

Participants are advised to stop use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts longer than seven days; if fever worsens or lasts more than three days; if redness or swelling is present; if new symptoms arise; or if a cough recurs or occurs with a rash or headache that lasts.

Before using this product, patients should consult a doctor if they have a history of liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Additionally, those with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should seek medical advice prior to use.

Patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should also consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Drug Interactions

Concurrent use of this medication with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, is contraindicated due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose and potential hepatotoxicity.

Pharmacodynamic interactions should be considered when this medication is administered alongside monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It is advised that this medication not be used in conjunction with any MAOI, including those prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease, and for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. The combination may lead to serious adverse effects, including hypertensive crises.

Additionally, caution is warranted when this medication is used in patients taking warfarin, a blood-thinning agent. It is recommended that patients consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to using this medication if they are currently on warfarin therapy. Monitoring of coagulation parameters may be necessary to ensure patient safety.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Daytime Severe Cold and Flu (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Daytime Severe Cold and Flu.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients aged 4 to under 12 years should consult a healthcare professional before use. The medication is not recommended for children under 4 years of age. For adolescents and adults aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 softgels taken with water every 4 hours, with a maximum of 8 softgels in a 24-hour period.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

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 weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus or nursing infant.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

There is no information available regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with renal impairment. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of specific guidance when prescribing to patients with reduced kidney function.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should be closely monitored when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. It is important to note that severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed the maximum daily dosage of 8 softgels within a 24-hour period. This limit applies not only to the product itself but also to the total intake of acetaminophen from all sources.

Additionally, patients should be advised against consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, as this may further increase the risk of liver damage. Due to the potential for compromised liver function to affect the metabolism of acetaminophen, careful consideration of the patient's overall health status and liver function is essential when determining the appropriateness of this medication. Regular monitoring of liver function tests may be warranted in patients with known hepatic impairment to ensure safety and efficacy.

Overdosage

In cases of overdosage, significant health risks are associated with the consumption of this product beyond the recommended limits.

Risk of Severe Liver Damage Taking more than 8 softgels within a 24-hour period, which is the maximum daily dosage for this product, can lead to severe liver damage. Healthcare professionals should be vigilant in assessing patients who may have exceeded this dosage.

Additionally, the concomitant use of this product with other medications containing acetaminophen poses a further risk of severe liver damage. It is crucial for healthcare providers to inquire about all medications a patient is taking to prevent potential interactions that could exacerbate liver toxicity.

Alcohol Consumption Patients who consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product are also at an increased risk for severe liver damage. Healthcare professionals should advise patients on the dangers of alcohol consumption in conjunction with this medication and monitor for signs of liver impairment.

In the event of suspected overdosage, immediate medical attention is warranted. Monitoring liver function tests and providing supportive care are essential components of management.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the compound in these areas.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, patients must seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222, as prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.

Patients should be informed not to use this medication in conjunction with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain whether a drug contains acetaminophen, they should consult a doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

It is essential to caution patients against using this medication if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for conditions such as depression, psychiatric or emotional disorders, or Parkinson's disease, or if they have stopped taking an MAOI within the past two weeks. Patients should be encouraged to ask their healthcare provider or pharmacist if they are unsure whether their prescription includes an MAOI.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, they should seek medical advice if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond seven days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than three days, or if they notice any redness or swelling. New symptoms that arise should also prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider.

Patients should be made aware that if a cough returns or occurs alongside a rash or persistent headache, they should seek medical attention, as these may indicate a serious condition. While using this product, patients must adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount.

Before using this medication, patients should be advised to consult a doctor if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Furthermore, patients with a cough that produces excessive phlegm or a persistent or chronic cough, such as those associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should also seek medical advice prior to use. Lastly, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a temperature not exceeding 25°C to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper container requirements must be adhered to, ensuring that the product is kept in a suitable environment. Special handling needs should be observed to prevent any compromise to the product's quality during storage and transportation.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Daytime Severe Cold and Flu, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Daytime Severe Cold and Flu, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.