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Daytime Cold and Flu

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg/15 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg/15 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg/15 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
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 2026
Label revision date
January 23, 2026
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg/15 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg/15 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg/15 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
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 2026
Label revision date
January 23, 2026
Manufacturer
CVS WOONSOCKET PRESCRIPTION CENTER, INCORPORATED
Registration number
M012
NDC root
51316-350

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Drug Overview

CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU is a liquid medication designed to help relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It contains three active ingredients: acetaminophen, which acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer; dextromethorphan HBr, a cough suppressant that helps alleviate coughing; and phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant that reduces nasal congestion.

This medication temporarily addresses a variety of symptoms, including cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, fever, and minor aches and pains. It is formulated to provide relief without the use of antihistamines or added alcohol, making it a suitable option for daytime use.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It helps ease a cough caused by minor irritation in your throat and bronchial tubes, reduces nasal congestion, and alleviates minor aches and pains. Additionally, it can soothe a sore throat, relieve headaches, and help lower fever.

Rest assured, there are no known teratogenic effects (which means it does not cause birth defects) or nonteratogenic effects associated with this medication.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to take this medication exactly as directed to ensure your safety. You should only use the dose cup that comes with the medication to measure your doses. 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 your child is between 6 and under 12 years old, they should take 15 mL every 4 hours. For children aged 4 to under 6 years, it's best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. Lastly, do not use this medication for children under 4 years old. Always follow these guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are currently taking any other medication that contains acetaminophen, whether it's a prescription or over-the-counter drug. If you're unsure about a medication, it's best to consult with 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. If you have a history of allergic reactions to this product or any of its ingredients, you should also refrain from using it.

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully and not exceed the recommended amount. Always prioritize your safety by discussing any concerns or questions with a healthcare professional.

Side Effects

You should be aware that taking too much acetaminophen can lead to severe liver damage. For adults, this risk increases if you exceed 4,000 mg in 24 hours, take it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Children are at risk if they take more than five doses in 24 hours.

Additionally, acetaminophen can cause serious skin reactions, including redness, blisters, and 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 a doctor. It's also important to 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. Always seek advice from a doctor if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications, especially blood thinners like warfarin. In case of overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial.

Warnings and Precautions

It's important to be aware of some key warnings when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. Taking more than 4,000 mg in 24 hours can lead to severe liver damage, especially if you consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily or take other medications containing acetaminophen. Additionally, be cautious of potential severe 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, it's wise to talk to your doctor if you have any existing health conditions, such as liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes. If you're taking the blood thinner warfarin, check with your doctor or pharmacist before use. In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, even if you don't notice any symptoms.

You should stop taking this product and call your doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or unable to sleep, or if your pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts longer than 5 days for children or 7 days for adults. Additionally, if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if you notice any redness, swelling, or new symptoms, it's important to reach out to your healthcare provider.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. 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, it’s always better to be safe and seek assistance if you have any concerns about an overdose.

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 based on their age. 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 medication in children under 4 years old.

Be cautious about the number of doses your child takes. If they exceed 5 doses in a 24-hour period, it could lead to serious liver damage. Additionally, if your child's pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than 5 days, you should stop using the medication and consult a doctor. Always prioritize your child's safety and well-being when using any medication.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there are no specific guidelines or recommendations regarding age-related dosage adjustments or safety concerns. This means that, while the medication can be prescribed to older patients, healthcare providers may not have tailored information to ensure its safe and effective use in this age group.

If you are caring for an older adult, it's important to discuss any potential risks or special considerations with their healthcare provider. Always ensure that the prescribing doctor is aware of the patient's age and any other health conditions they may have, as this can help in making the best treatment decisions.

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 and may suggest adjustments to your dosage or monitoring based on your kidney function. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding any concerns related to your kidney health.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver disease, it's important to consult your doctor before using this medication. Your healthcare provider can help determine if it's safe for you and may need to adjust your dosage or monitor your liver function closely. Always prioritize your health by discussing any liver conditions with your doctor before starting new treatments.

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 and safety of your product, store it at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the integrity of the device.

When handling the product, be sure to do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to avoid contamination. Always follow any specific disposal instructions provided to ensure safe and responsible disposal of any components.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication to ensure it's safe for you and your baby.

FAQ

What is CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU used for?

CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms, including cough, nasal congestion, minor aches and pains, sore throat, headache, and fever.

What are the active ingredients in CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU?

It contains Acetaminophen (pain reliever, fever reducer), Dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant), and Phenylephrine HCl (nasal decongestant).

What is the recommended dosage for adults?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 30 mL every 4 hours, not exceeding 4 doses in 24 hours.

Can children use CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU?

Children 6 to under 12 years can take 15 mL every 4 hours. For children 4 to under 6 years, consult a doctor, and it should not be used in children under 4 years.

Are there any warnings associated with CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU?

Yes, severe liver damage may occur if you exceed the recommended dosage or consume alcohol while using this product. Additionally, if you experience severe skin reactions or a sore throat that persists, seek medical help.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Is CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

What should I avoid while taking CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU?

Do not use with other drugs containing acetaminophen or if you are taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).

What are the storage instructions for CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU?

Store CVS™ DAYTIME COLD & FLU at 20-25°C (68-77°F).

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 symptoms associated with the common cold and influenza. Specifically, it addresses the following symptoms: cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, nasal congestion, minor aches and pains, sore throat, headache, and fever.

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. It is imperative to utilize only the dose cup provided with the medication to ensure accurate dosing. 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 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, it is advised to consult a physician for appropriate dosing recommendations. The medication is not indicated for use in children under 4 years of age.

Healthcare professionals should monitor patients for adherence to these guidelines to prevent the risk of overdose.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

The product should not be used in conjunction with any other 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 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, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

Lastly, individuals with a known allergy to this product or any of its ingredients should not use it.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients that adults must not exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, and children should not take more than 5 doses in the same timeframe. Additionally, caution is warranted if this product is taken concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen or if the adult consumes 3 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. Should any of these symptoms occur, patients must be instructed to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

In cases of severe sore throat that persists for more than 2 days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients should be advised to consult a healthcare provider promptly.

General precautions should be taken for patients with specific health conditions. Prior to use, patients should be encouraged to consult a healthcare professional if they have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, or a cough associated with excessive phlegm. Additionally, those with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema, should seek medical advice before use. It is also important to consult a doctor or pharmacist if the patient is currently taking the anticoagulant warfarin.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is critical. Patients should be instructed to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical help without delay, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

Patients should be advised to discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond 5 days in children or 7 days in adults, or if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, medical consultation is necessary. Redness or swelling, the emergence of new symptoms, or a cough that recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache should also prompt immediate medical evaluation, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients who exceed the recommended dosage of acetaminophen, specifically if an adult takes more than 4,000 mg within a 24-hour period, a child takes more than 5 doses in the same timeframe, or if the product is used concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen. Additionally, adults who consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product are at increased risk for liver damage.

Patients should be aware of the potential for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen, which may 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.

A sore throat warning is also in place; if a sore throat is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients should consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Patients are advised to stop use and contact a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts longer than 5 days in children or 7 days in adults, if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if redness or swelling occurs, if new symptoms arise, or if a cough returns or occurs with a rash or headache that persists. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition.

Before using this product, patients with liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland should consult a healthcare provider. Additionally, those experiencing a cough with excessive phlegm or a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, 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 acetaminophen.

In the event of an overdose, it is critical for patients to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. Quick medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are immediately apparent.

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 of warfarin or increase the risk of bleeding.

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 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 aged 6 to under 12 years may be administered 15 mL every 4 hours. 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: if a child takes more than 5 doses within a 24-hour period, there is a risk of severe liver damage. Additionally, caregivers should be instructed to stop use and consult a doctor if the child's pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists for more than 5 days.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific recommendations regarding age considerations, 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 potential adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population. Individualized assessment and clinical judgment are essential when determining the appropriateness of treatment in elderly patients.

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 if they experience difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. This precaution is essential to ensure appropriate management and monitoring of their condition, as reduced kidney function may influence the pharmacokinetics and safety profile of the medication.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is essential for individuals with liver disease to receive appropriate guidance, as their liver function may affect the safety and efficacy of the treatment. Monitoring of liver function may be necessary to ensure the patient's safety while on therapy. Adjustments to dosage or treatment regimens may be required based on the severity of hepatic impairment, and healthcare providers should evaluate the risks and benefits of therapy in these patients.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. 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, vigilance and timely action are essential in managing overdose situations effectively.

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 potential effects in nonclinical settings.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified that acetaminophen may be associated with severe skin reactions. Reports indicate that symptoms can 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 at 1-800-222-1222 in the event of an overdose, 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 about the presence of acetaminophen in their medications, they should consult a doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

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 one 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 with a history of allergic reactions to this product or any of its ingredients should be advised against its use. Additionally, they should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness.

Healthcare providers should inform patients to stop using the product and seek medical advice if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond 5 days in children or 7 days in adults. Patients should also be advised to consult a doctor if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if they notice any redness or swelling.

Patients should be made aware that new symptoms may arise, and they should stop using the product and consult a doctor if a cough returns or occurs alongside a rash or persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious condition.

When 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, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.

Patients should also be advised to seek medical advice before using this product if they have a cough that produces excessive phlegm or if they have a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Lastly, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be instructed to consult a doctor 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 controlled temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F) to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper storage conditions must be adhered to, ensuring that the product is kept within the specified temperature limits to prevent degradation.

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. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experiences.

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.