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Daytime Cold and Flu

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Capsule, Liquid Filled
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
November 14, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Capsule, Liquid Filled
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
November 14, 2025
Manufacturer
CVS PHARMACY, INC
Registration number
M012
NDC root
51316-896

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Drug Overview

This medication is designed to provide temporary relief from common cold and flu symptoms. It contains three active ingredients: acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), and phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant). Together, these components help alleviate minor aches and pains, headaches, sore throats, nasal congestion, fever, sinus pressure, and cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation.

Available in softgel form, this product is intended for daytime use, allowing you to manage multiple symptoms of cold and flu effectively. If you're feeling under the weather, this medication may help you feel more comfortable as you recover.

Uses

If you're dealing with the discomfort of a common cold or the flu, this medication can help provide temporary relief from a variety of symptoms. You can expect it to ease minor aches and pains, headaches, sore throats, nasal congestion, fever, sinus pressure, and cough caused by minor irritation in your throat and bronchial area.

Rest assured, this medication does not have any known teratogenic effects, meaning it does not cause developmental issues in a fetus. It's designed to help you feel better while you recover from your illness.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to ensure your safety. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 softgels with a full glass of water every 4 hours. Make sure to swallow the softgels whole; do not crush, chew, or dissolve them. Remember, you should not take more than 4 doses in a 24-hour period, and be cautious not to exceed the recommended amount as this can lead to an overdose.

If you are considering using other Daytime or Nighttime products, be sure to read each label thoroughly to avoid taking too much. Also, keep in mind that this medication is not suitable for children under 12 years old, so please do not use it for them. Always prioritize your health by following these guidelines closely.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this medication if you are currently taking any other drug that contains acetaminophen, whether it's a prescription or over-the-counter product. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Additionally, do not use this medication if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of drug used for treating depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease. You should also refrain from using this medication for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. Again, if you're uncertain about your medications, it's best to ask a healthcare professional.

Side Effects

You should be aware of some important warnings and potential side effects when using this medication. Taking more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in 24 hours, using it with other acetaminophen-containing products, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product can lead to severe liver damage. Additionally, acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, which can include symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you experience any of these skin reactions, stop using the medication and seek medical help immediately.

It's also important to consult a doctor if your sore throat is severe, lasts more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. You should stop using the medication and contact a healthcare professional if your pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or lasts more than seven days, if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, or if you notice any new symptoms. These could indicate a more serious condition that requires attention.

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. Additionally, 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, it's important to talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: liver disease, diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or a persistent cough. If you are taking the blood thinner warfarin, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) immediately, even if you don't notice any symptoms.

You should stop using this product and call your doctor if your pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or lasts more than seven days, if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, if your fever worsens or lasts more than three days, or if you notice any redness or swelling. New symptoms or a returning cough, especially if accompanied by a rash or headache, could indicate a serious condition that requires medical attention.

Overdose

Taking more than the recommended dose of this medication can lead to serious liver damage. If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Quick action is crucial for both adults and children, even if you don’t see any signs or symptoms of an overdose.

Remember, being aware of the risks and knowing what to do in case of an overdose can make a significant difference in ensuring safety. Always err on the side of caution and reach out for help if you have any concerns.

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 it should not be used in children under 12 years old. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is 2 softgels taken with water every 4 hours, but be sure not to exceed 4 doses in a 24-hour period. Always follow these guidelines to ensure your child's safety and well-being.

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. Since older adults may have different health needs and responses to medications, you should always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help determine the right dosage and monitor for any potential side effects, ensuring that the treatment is safe and effective for you or your loved one.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication should be used if you have renal impairment (kidney issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your health situation. They can help determine the best course of action based on your kidney function and overall health.

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. Always consult your doctor before using this product if you have liver disease.

Be aware that taking more than the recommended dose can also harm your liver. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Quick medical attention is crucial, even if you don’t notice any symptoms.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you.

Always feel free to ask questions and share your complete list of medications and any lab tests you may be undergoing. This way, you can avoid any potential issues and receive the best care possible.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 15-30ºC (59-86ºF). It's important to avoid exposing it to excessive heat, as this can affect its effectiveness and safety.

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 safe and responsible disposal.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What is the main use of this medication?

This medication temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms, including minor aches and pains, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, fever, sinus pressure, and cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation.

What are the active ingredients in this medication?

The active ingredients are Acetaminophen (pain reliever and fever reducer), Dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant), and Phenylephrine HCl (nasal decongestant).

How should I take this medication?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 softgels with water every 4 hours, not exceeding 4 doses in 24 hours. Swallow the softgels whole; do not crush, chew, or dissolve.

Are there any age restrictions for this medication?

This medication should not be used by children under 12 years of age.

What should I do if I experience severe skin reactions?

If you experience severe skin reactions such as reddening, blisters, or rash, stop using the medication and seek medical help immediately.

What are the liver warnings associated with this medication?

Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in 24 hours, use it with other drugs containing acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) immediately, as quick medical attention is critical.

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

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

What should I do if my symptoms worsen or new symptoms occur?

Stop using the medication and consult a doctor if pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or lasts more than 7 days, or if new symptoms occur.

Are there any contraindications for this medication?

Do not use this medication with any other drug containing acetaminophen or if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the last 2 weeks.

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Daytime Cold and Flu.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Daytime Cold and Flu, 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 specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of common cold and flu symptoms, including minor aches and pains, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, fever, sinus pressure, and cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation.

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

Dosage and Administration

Patients should adhere strictly to the recommended dosage to avoid potential overdose. The maximum allowable dosage is four doses within a 24-hour period.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is two softgels taken with water every four hours. It is imperative that the softgels are swallowed whole; they must not be crushed, chewed, or dissolved to ensure proper release and absorption of the medication.

This product is not intended for use in children under 12 years of age. When utilizing other Daytime or Nighttime products, it is essential to read each label carefully to confirm appropriate dosing and avoid exceeding the maximum dosage.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Co-administration with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

  • Concurrent use with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are utilized for the treatment of depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease, is contraindicated. This includes a restriction on use for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Patients should verify with a healthcare professional if their prescription medications contain an MAOI.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product containing acetaminophen if the following conditions are met: exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, concurrent use with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

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

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor prior to use if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, or a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Additionally, patients with a cough that produces excessive phlegm should also seek medical advice. It is crucial to inquire about the use of the blood-thinning medication warfarin before administration.

In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention is necessary. Patients should contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) without delay, as prompt intervention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and contact a healthcare provider if any of the following occur: worsening pain, cough, or nasal congestion lasting more than seven days; symptoms of nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; fever that worsens or persists beyond three days; presence of redness or swelling; emergence of new symptoms; or recurrence of cough accompanied by rash or headache lasting longer than expected. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Side Effects

Patients may experience a range of adverse reactions while using this product. Serious adverse reactions include severe liver damage, which 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, patients should be aware of the potential for severe skin reactions, which may manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is imperative that patients discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

Patients are also advised to consult a healthcare professional if they experience a sore throat that is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

Common adverse reactions may include nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Patients should stop use and consult a doctor if pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or lasts longer than seven days, if fever worsens or lasts more than three days, or if redness or swelling is present. The emergence of new symptoms or a cough that recurs or occurs with a rash or headache that lasts should also prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there are no known interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are necessary at this time.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Daytime Cold and Flu.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not use this medication. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 softgels taken with water every 4 hours, with a maximum of 4 doses within 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.

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 have not been specifically addressed in the drug insert regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should be aware that this product contains acetaminophen, which carries a risk of severe liver damage. It is crucial for these patients to adhere to the following guidelines to minimize the risk of hepatotoxicity.

Patients should not exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period. Additionally, they must avoid the concurrent use of other medications containing acetaminophen, as this can further increase the risk of liver damage. Consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product is also contraindicated due to the potential for exacerbating liver injury.

Before using this product, patients with liver disease should consult a healthcare professional. It is essential to assess liver function and determine the appropriateness of this medication in the context of their overall health status.

In the event of an overdose, which can lead to significant liver damage, immediate medical assistance should be sought. Patients are advised to contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) without delay, as prompt medical attention is critical for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to recognize the potential for serious health consequences, particularly liver damage, which may occur when the recommended dosage is exceeded. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 without delay.

Recommended Actions

Prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms of overdose. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as early intervention may significantly mitigate the risk of severe complications.

Potential Symptoms

While specific symptoms of overdose may vary, healthcare providers should remain vigilant for indications of liver impairment, which can manifest in various forms. It is important to monitor patients closely and conduct appropriate assessments to identify any signs of toxicity.

Management Procedures

Upon recognition of an overdose, healthcare professionals should initiate standard management protocols, which may include supportive care and monitoring of liver function. The involvement of poison control experts can provide additional guidance on the most effective treatment strategies tailored to the individual case.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified. Additionally, there are no detailed findings available regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has revealed reports of severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen. These reactions include symptoms such as skin reddening, blisters, and rash. These events have been reported voluntarily or identified through surveillance programs.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients about the potential risks associated with overdose, emphasizing that taking more than the recommended dose can lead to liver damage. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) immediately, 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 product in conjunction with any other medications containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain whether a drug contains acetaminophen, they should be encouraged to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

It is important to instruct patients not to use this product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have stopped taking an MAOI within the past two weeks. Patients should be advised to check with a healthcare professional if they are unsure whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Patients should be counseled to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or persists for more than 7 days. Additionally, they should stop use and seek medical advice if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. If fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if redness or swelling occurs, patients should also be advised to contact a healthcare provider. New symptoms or a recurrence of cough, especially if accompanied by a rash or persistent headache, should prompt patients to seek medical attention, as these may indicate a serious condition.

While using this product, patients must be reminded not to exceed the recommended dosage. Healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor before use if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, a persistent or chronic cough (such as that associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema), or a cough that produces excessive phlegm. Furthermore, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist prior to 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 range of 15-30ºC (59-86ºF) to maintain its efficacy. Care should be taken to avoid exposure to excessive heat, as this may compromise the integrity of the product. Proper storage conditions are crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of the product throughout its shelf life.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Daytime 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 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.