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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 2024
Label revision date
December 9, 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 2024
Label revision date
December 9, 2025
Manufacturer
QUALITY CHOICE (Chain Drug Marketing Association)
Registration number
M012
NDC root
83324-145

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Drug Overview

DayQuil Cold & Flu is a medication designed to provide multi-symptom relief from common cold and flu symptoms. It contains active ingredients such as acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), and phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant). This combination helps temporarily alleviate minor aches and pains, headaches, sore throats, nasal congestion, fevers, sinus pressure, and coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation.

This product is alcohol-free and antihistamine-free, making it suitable for those looking for relief without these additional ingredients. DayQuil Cold & Flu is available in softgel form, providing a convenient option for managing your cold and flu symptoms.

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 within a 24-hour period, and you should never exceed the recommended amount.

If you are considering using other Daytime or Nighttime products, be sure to read each label thoroughly to avoid any confusion about dosing. Also, please note that this medication is not suitable for children under 12 years old. Always adhere to these guidelines to prevent any potential overdose.

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. Additionally, do not use this medication 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 recommended dosage and not exceed it. Taking more than the recommended amount can lead to serious health issues. Always prioritize your safety and well-being by adhering to these guidelines.

Side Effects

You should be aware of some important warnings and potential side effects when using this product. It contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 4,000 mg in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, such as skin reddening, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

It's also important to consult a doctor if your pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or lasts more than seven days, if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, or if your fever worsens or lasts more than three days. New symptoms or a cough that returns with a rash or headache could indicate a serious condition. Remember, taking more than the recommended dose can lead to liver damage, so if you suspect an overdose, seek medical assistance right away.

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 skin reactions, 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 liver disease, diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate. If you are taking the blood thinner warfarin, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use. In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away, even if you don't notice any symptoms. Stop using the 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, or if you develop new symptoms. These could indicate a more serious condition.

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, even if you or the person affected do not show any signs or symptoms. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

Remember, quick medical attention is crucial for both adults and children in these situations. Always err on the side of caution and get help right away if you think an overdose has occurred.

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

It's important to be cautious when considering this medication for children. If your child is under 12 years old, you should not use this product. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is to take 2 softgels with water every 4 hours as needed. Always ensure that you follow these guidelines to keep your child safe and healthy.

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 may be taking multiple medications, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate for your individual health situation.

If you or a loved one is an older adult, be sure to discuss any concerns about dosage or potential side effects with your doctor, as they can provide personalized guidance based on your health history and current medications.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to consult your doctor before using this medication, especially if you have difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Additionally, if you are taking the blood thinner warfarin, make sure to speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting this medication. They can provide guidance on any necessary adjustments or monitoring to ensure your safety and well-being.

Hepatic Impairment

It's important to be cautious if you have liver problems while using this product, as it contains acetaminophen. You should not take more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period, and you should avoid using it with other medications that also contain acetaminophen. Additionally, consuming three or more alcoholic drinks each day while using this product can lead to severe liver damage.

Before using this product, please consult your doctor if you have liver disease. Be aware that taking more than the recommended dose can result in liver damage. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, even if you do not notice any symptoms. Quick medical attention is crucial for both adults and children.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious when taking medications. If you are using any other drug that contains acetaminophen, you should avoid combining it with this medication, as doing so can lead to severe liver damage. Additionally, if you are taking warfarin, a blood-thinning medication, make sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this drug.

Always discuss your current medications and any lab tests with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.

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 DayQuil Cold & Flu used for?

DayQuil Cold & Flu is used to temporarily relieve common cold and flu symptoms such as 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 DayQuil Cold & Flu?

The active ingredients in DayQuil Cold & Flu are Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan HBr, and Phenylephrine HCl.

How should I take DayQuil Cold & Flu?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 softgels with water every 4 hours, and you should not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours.

Are there any warnings associated with DayQuil Cold & Flu?

Yes, you should not exceed the recommended dosage, and severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in 24 hours or with other drugs containing acetaminophen.

Can I use DayQuil Cold & Flu if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should ask a health professional before using DayQuil Cold & Flu.

What should I do if I experience severe skin reactions?

If you experience severe skin reactions such as skin reddening, blisters, or rash, stop using DayQuil Cold & Flu and seek medical help right away.

Who should not use DayQuil Cold & Flu?

Children under 12 years should not use DayQuil Cold & Flu, and you should not use it with any other drug containing acetaminophen.

What should I do in case of overdose?

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

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

Adults and children aged 12 years and older are instructed to take 2 softgels with water every 4 hours, not to exceed 4 doses within a 24-hour period. It is essential that the softgels are swallowed whole; they should not be crushed, chewed, or dissolved prior to ingestion.

For children under 12 years of age, the use of this product is not recommended.

When utilizing other Daytime or Nighttime products, healthcare professionals should advise patients to carefully read each label to ensure proper dosing and avoid potential overdose.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

The product should not be used concurrently 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, 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 medication, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

Exceeding the recommended dosage is also contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains 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 if they experience a severe sore throat that persists for more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

General precautions should be taken prior to use. Patients should be instructed to seek medical advice 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 should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this product if they are currently taking the anticoagulant warfarin.

In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial. Patients should be advised to contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical help right away, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

Patients should also 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; nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; fever worsening or lasting more than 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 using this product should be aware of several important warnings and potential adverse reactions.

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of acetaminophen, particularly if patients exceed 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period, combine it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product. In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention is critical; patients are advised to contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) without delay, even if no symptoms are present.

Patients should also be alert for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen, which may manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If any of these symptoms occur, patients must discontinue use and seek medical assistance promptly.

In addition, if a patient experiences a sore throat that is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, they should consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Patients are advised to stop using the product and consult a doctor if they experience any of the following: worsening pain, cough, or nasal congestion lasting more than seven days; nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; fever worsening or lasting more than three days; redness or swelling; new symptoms; or a cough that returns or occurs with a rash or headache lasting longer than expected. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Drug Interactions

Concurrent use of this medication with any other drug containing acetaminophen is contraindicated due to the risk of severe liver damage.

Additionally, caution is advised when this medication is used in conjunction with warfarin, a blood-thinning agent. Patients should consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to use if they are currently taking warfarin to ensure appropriate monitoring and management of potential interactions.

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.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available 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 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 safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

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

Patients with renal impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they experience difficulties urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Additionally, it is advisable for patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin to seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist before initiating treatment. Monitoring and appropriate dosing adjustments may be necessary to ensure safety and efficacy in this population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should be aware that this product contains acetaminophen, which carries a risk of severe liver damage. It is critical that patients do not exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period, as exceeding this limit may lead to significant hepatic injury. Additionally, patients should avoid the concurrent use of other medications containing acetaminophen and limit alcohol consumption to fewer than three alcoholic drinks per day while using this product, as these factors can further increase the risk of liver damage.

Patients with a history of liver disease are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product. In the event of an overdose, which can occur if the recommended dosage is exceeded, immediate medical assistance should be sought. Patients are encouraged to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms of overdose.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to recognize the potential for serious health consequences, particularly liver damage, associated with the ingestion of doses exceeding the recommended amount. Healthcare professionals should advise patients and caregivers to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 without delay.

Prompt medical intervention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of overt signs or symptoms of overdose. The lack of immediate symptoms does not preclude the possibility of significant harm, underscoring the importance of vigilance and proactive management in cases of suspected overdose.

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

Postmarketing experience has identified the following adverse reactions: severe skin reactions, which may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. These events have been reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center (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 instructed not to exceed the recommended dosage. They should be informed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or persists for more than 7 days. Additionally, patients should stop use and seek medical advice if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness.

If a patient’s fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if they notice any redness or swelling, they should be advised to stop use and consult a healthcare professional. Patients should also be informed to seek medical advice if new symptoms arise or if a cough returns, particularly if it is accompanied by a rash or a headache that persists.

It is important for healthcare providers to recommend that patients consult a doctor before using the medication if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Patients with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, should also be advised to seek medical consultation prior to use. Furthermore, patients should be cautioned to consult a doctor before use if they have a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) or if they are taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin.

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, which 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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Primary FDA sources:

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.