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Vicks Dayquil

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg/15 mL
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg/15 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg/15 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg/15 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2013
Label revision date
February 20, 2026
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg/15 mL
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg/15 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg/15 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg/15 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2013
Label revision date
February 20, 2026
Manufacturer
The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company
Registration number
M012
NDC root
37000-810

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Drug Overview

VICKS® DayQuil™ SEVERE COLD & FLU is a medication designed to help you feel better when you're suffering from cold or flu symptoms. It contains a combination of ingredients, including acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), guaifenesin (which helps loosen mucus), phenylephrine HCl (a decongestant that reduces nasal swelling), and dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant).

This product temporarily relieves a variety of symptoms such as nasal and sinus congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, headaches, fever, and sore throat. It works by reducing swelling in the nasal passages, promoting drainage, and helping to make coughs more productive by loosening phlegm. VICKS® DayQuil™ is non-drowsy and alcohol-free, making it a suitable option for daytime relief.

Uses

This medication is designed to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. If you're experiencing nasal congestion, sinus pressure, or a cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, this product can help. It also addresses minor aches and pains, headaches, fever, and sore throats.

In addition to alleviating these symptoms, it works to reduce swelling in the nasal passages, making it easier for you to breathe through your nose. It promotes drainage in your nasal and sinus areas and helps loosen phlegm (mucus), which can make your coughs more productive by clearing out bothersome mucus from your bronchial passageways.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to take this medication exactly as directed. You should only use the dose cup that comes with the medication to ensure you're measuring the correct amount. Remember, you should not exceed 4 doses in a 24-hour period.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 30 mL every 4 hours. If you're giving this medication to children aged 6 to under 12 years, the dose is 15 mL every 4 hours. For children aged 4 to under 6 years, it's best to consult a doctor before administering the medication. Please do not use this medication for children under 4 years old.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this medication if you are currently taking any drug that contains acetaminophen, whether it's a prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, do not use this product if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease, or for two weeks after stopping an MAOI. Again, if you're uncertain about your medications, it's best to ask a healthcare professional.

It's also important to follow the dosing instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended amount. Misusing or taking more than directed can lead to serious health issues, including dependence (a condition where your body becomes reliant on a substance). Always prioritize your safety and well-being by adhering to these guidelines.

Side Effects

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed the recommended doses—more than 4 doses (30 mL each) in 24 hours for adults, or more than 4 doses (15 mL each) in 24 hours for children. It's especially important to avoid taking this product with other medications that also contain acetaminophen or if you consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily.

Be aware that acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, including redness, blisters, or rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately. Additionally, if you have a sore throat that is severe, lasts more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult a doctor. You should also stop use and contact a healthcare professional if you feel nervous, dizzy, or sleepless, or if your symptoms worsen or persist beyond the recommended duration.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed the recommended doses—more than 4 doses (30 mL each) in 24 hours for adults or more than 4 doses (15 mL each) for children. Be cautious if you consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, or if you are taking other medications that also contain acetaminophen. Additionally, be aware that acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rash. If you notice any skin reactions, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

You should consult a doctor if you experience a severe sore throat that lasts more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. Also, stop using the product and contact your doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or have trouble sleeping. If your pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts longer than 5 days for children or 7 days for adults, or if your fever lasts more than 3 days, these could be signs of a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Quick action 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. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get help right away. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and health.

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

When giving this medication to children, it's important to follow specific guidelines. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the recommended dose is 15 mL every 4 hours. If your child is between 4 and under 6 years old, you should consult a doctor before administering the medication. It is not safe to use this product for children under 4 years old.

Be cautious about the total amount your child takes. If they exceed 4 doses (15 mL each) in a 24-hour period, you should seek medical advice due to potential liver issues. Additionally, if your child's pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than 5 days, stop using the medication and consult a doctor. Always seek quick medical attention for any concerning symptoms, even if they seem mild.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. If you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s always a good idea to discuss any medications with a healthcare provider. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate, considering any unique health needs or conditions.

Since there are no dosage adjustments or special precautions mentioned for elderly patients, your healthcare provider will be the best resource for personalized advice. They can monitor for any potential side effects and make recommendations based on individual health status.

Renal Impairment

It appears that there is no specific information regarding renal impairment (kidney problems) in the provided text. Therefore, there are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations to discuss for patients with kidney issues. If you have concerns about how your kidney health may affect your treatment, it's important to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using products that contain acetaminophen. Taking more than the recommended maximum—4 doses (30 mL each) in 24 hours for adults or 4 doses (15 mL each) for children—can lead to severe liver damage. Additionally, combining this product with other medications that also contain acetaminophen increases your risk. If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily, you should avoid using this product altogether, as it can further strain your liver.

Always monitor your dosage carefully and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about using acetaminophen, especially if you have a history of liver issues. Your safety is paramount, so make sure to follow these guidelines closely.

Drug Interactions

It's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, especially if you are taking warfarin, a blood-thinning drug. This is crucial because combining certain medications can affect how well they work or increase the risk of side effects.

While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted, it's always best to keep your healthcare provider informed about all the medications and supplements you are taking. This way, they can help ensure your treatment is safe and effective.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature no greater than 25ºC (77ºF). It's important not to refrigerate the product, as this could affect its effectiveness.

When handling the product, make sure to do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Always follow any specific disposal instructions provided to ensure safety and compliance.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using it. Always keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, as prompt attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no symptoms are apparent.

FAQ

What is VICKS® DayQuil™ SEVERE COLD & FLU used for?

It temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, headache, fever, and sore throat.

What are the active ingredients in VICKS® DayQuil™ SEVERE COLD & FLU?

The active ingredients are Acetaminophen, Guaifenesin, Phenylephrine HCl, and Dextromethorphan HBr.

What is the recommended dosage for adults and children over 12?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 30 mL every 4 hours.

Can children under 4 years use VICKS® DayQuil™ SEVERE COLD & FLU?

No, it should not be used in children under 4 years.

What should I do if I experience a severe skin reaction?

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

Is it safe to use VICKS® DayQuil™ SEVERE COLD & FLU while pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should ask a health professional before using this product.

What should I do if my symptoms worsen or do not improve?

You should stop using the product and consult a doctor if your pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts longer than the recommended duration.

What are the liver warnings associated with this product?

Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than the recommended doses or if you consume alcohol while using this product.

How should I store VICKS® DayQuil™ SEVERE COLD & FLU?

Store it at no greater than 25ºC and do not refrigerate.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vicks Dayquil (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Vicks Dayquil.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Vicks Dayquil, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold and influenza. Specifically, it alleviates nasal congestion, sinus congestion and pressure, cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, minor aches and pains, headache, fever, and sore throat. Additionally, it reduces swelling of the nasal passages, temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose, promotes nasal and/or sinus drainage, and helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, thereby facilitating the clearance of mucus from the bronchial passageways and making coughs more productive.

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

Dosage and Administration

Patients should adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage and administration guidelines. The provided dose cup must be utilized for accurate measurement. It is imperative not to exceed four doses within a 24-hour period.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 30 mL every 4 hours. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the dosage is 15 mL every 4 hours. For children aged 4 to under 6 years, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised prior to administration. The product is not recommended for use in children under 4 years of age.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

The product should not be used in conjunction with any drug 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, the product is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing such medication. 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, a healthcare professional should be consulted.

Furthermore, it is essential to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage, as exceeding the directed use is contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients that the risk of liver injury increases significantly if an adult exceeds 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period, which is the maximum daily dosage for this product. Similarly, children should not exceed 4 doses (15 mL each) in a 24-hour period. Caution is also warranted when this product is taken in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen. Additionally, adults who consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product are at an elevated risk for liver damage.

Acetaminophen may induce severe skin reactions, necessitating an Allergy Alert. Symptoms indicative of such reactions include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. Should any of these symptoms manifest, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

In cases of severe sore throat, healthcare professionals should recommend that patients consult a doctor if the sore throat persists for more than 2 days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

Patients should be instructed to stop use and consult a healthcare provider if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts beyond 5 days in children or 7 days in adults, medical advice should be sought. A fever that worsens or lasts more than 3 days, the presence of redness or swelling, the emergence of new symptoms, or a cough that recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache lasting longer than expected may indicate a serious condition, warranting prompt medical evaluation.

Side Effects

Severe adverse reactions associated with this product include the potential for severe liver damage, particularly in patients who exceed the recommended dosage of acetaminophen. Adults should not take more than 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period, while children should not exceed 4 doses (15 mL each) in the same timeframe. The risk of liver damage is heightened if the product is taken in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen or if the adult consumes 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients may also experience severe skin reactions due to acetaminophen, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

Participants should be advised to consult a healthcare professional if they experience a sore throat that is severe, persists for more than 2 days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

Common adverse reactions that warrant discontinuation of use and consultation with a healthcare provider include nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts beyond 5 days in children or 7 days in adults, or if fever persists for more than 3 days, medical advice should be sought. Redness or swelling, the emergence of new symptoms, or a cough that recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache lasting longer than expected may indicate a serious condition requiring prompt medical evaluation.

Patients with pre-existing conditions such as liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or those experiencing trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland should consult a healthcare professional before using this product. Furthermore, individuals with a persistent or chronic cough, such as those associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should also seek medical advice prior to use. It is advisable for patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin to consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Drug Interactions

Patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to using this medication. This precaution is necessary to evaluate potential interactions that may affect the efficacy and safety of warfarin therapy.

Currently, there are no additional drug interactions or laboratory test interactions reported for this medication. Therefore, no specific dosage adjustments or monitoring recommendations are available at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vicks Dayquil (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Vicks Dayquil.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients aged 6 to under 12 years may be administered 15 mL every 4 hours, with a maximum of 4 doses (15 mL each) in a 24-hour period. For children aged 4 to under 6 years, it is advised to consult a doctor before use. The product is not recommended for children under 4 years of age.

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the liver warning associated with exceeding the maximum daily dosage. Additionally, if a child's pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists for more than 5 days, it is important to stop use and seek medical advice. Quick medical attention is essential for both children and adults, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in efficacy, 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 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 on the excretion of this drug in human 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. Severe liver damage may occur if the following conditions are met:

  • Adults should not exceed 4 doses (30 mL each) in a 24-hour period, which is the maximum daily amount for this product.

  • Children should not exceed 4 doses (15 mL each) in a 24-hour period, which is also the maximum daily amount for this product.

  • Caution is advised if this product is taken concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen, as this may increase the risk of liver damage.

  • Adults who consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product are at an elevated risk for severe liver damage.

Due to these risks, it is recommended that patients with compromised liver function consult a healthcare professional before using this product to ensure safe and appropriate use. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in these patients to prevent potential adverse effects.

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 observable signs or symptoms.

Healthcare professionals are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in managing potential overdose situations. The lack of immediate symptoms does not preclude the possibility of serious health consequences, making it essential to err on the side of caution.

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 in these areas limits the understanding of the compound's safety profile in nonclinical settings.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified that acetaminophen may be associated with severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is advised to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

Additionally, reports indicate that users should stop taking acetaminophen and consult a healthcare professional if they experience symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Other concerning signs include worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting beyond 5 days in children or 7 days in adults, as well as fever persisting for more than 3 days, the presence of redness or swelling, the emergence of new symptoms, or a cough that recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache.

These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring prompt medical evaluation. In cases of overdose, it is crucial to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, as timely intervention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Patients should be informed not to use this product in conjunction with any drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain about the presence of acetaminophen in their medications, they should be encouraged to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

It is crucial to inform patients that they should not use this product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the last two weeks. Patients should be advised to seek clarification from their healthcare provider 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 be advised to stop use and seek medical advice if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond 5 days in children or 7 days in adults. If fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if redness or swelling occurs, patients should also be directed to stop use and contact their healthcare provider. New symptoms that arise during treatment should prompt a consultation with a doctor.

Patients should be cautioned to avoid exceeding the recommended dosage. It is important for healthcare providers to ask patients about their medical history, specifically regarding liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, and any issues with urination due to an enlarged prostate gland. Patients with a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm or those with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should also be advised to consult a doctor before using this product.

Furthermore, patients on a sodium-restricted diet or those taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be encouraged to seek guidance from their healthcare provider or pharmacist prior to use.

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 25ºC. Refrigeration is not recommended, as it may compromise the integrity of the product. Proper handling should be observed to maintain the quality and efficacy of the product throughout its shelf life.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. It is essential to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center, as prompt attention is crucial for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Vicks Dayquil, 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 Vicks Dayquil, 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.