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Vicks Dayquil

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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
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2024
Label revision date
December 1, 2025
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
Liquid
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 1, 2025
Manufacturer
The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company
Registration number
M012
NDC root
84126-315

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Drug Overview

VICKS® DayQuil® COLD & FLU is a medication designed to help you feel better when you're suffering from the common cold or flu. It contains three active ingredients: acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant), and dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant). Together, these ingredients work to temporarily relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever.

This product is non-drowsy and alcohol-free, making it a suitable option for daytime use when you need to manage your symptoms without feeling sleepy. With a volume of 4 fluid ounces (118 mL), it provides a convenient way to tackle those pesky cold and flu symptoms so you can get back to your day.

Uses

If you're dealing with the discomfort of a common cold or flu, this medication can help temporarily relieve several bothersome symptoms. You can expect relief from nasal congestion, a cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, and a sore throat. Additionally, it can help ease headaches, minor aches and pains, and even reduce fever.

Rest assured, this medication does not have any 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 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 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 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 conditions like depression 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 when using this product. Always prioritize your safety by checking with a healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

Side Effects

You should be aware of some important side effects and warnings associated with this product. It 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. Additionally, taking this product with other medications containing acetaminophen or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it can increase the risk of liver damage.

There is also a risk of severe skin reactions, which may present as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. 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. You should also stop use and contact a healthcare professional if you feel nervous, dizzy, or sleepless, if your symptoms worsen or last longer than the recommended time, or if you notice any new symptoms. Always consult a doctor before use if you have certain health conditions, such as liver disease or heart disease, or if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin. In case of overdose, seek medical attention right away.

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) in 24 hours 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 rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

Before using this product, consult your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate. It's also important to check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the blood thinner warfarin. Always follow the dosing instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount.

If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, even if you do not notice any symptoms. Stop using the product and call your doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or sleepless, if your symptoms worsen or last longer than 5 days for children or 7 days for adults, if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if you notice any new symptoms.

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 of 15 mL in a 24-hour period, you should seek medical advice, as this is the maximum daily amount. Additionally, if your child's symptoms worsen or do not improve after 5 days, stop using the medication and consult a doctor.

Geriatric Use

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

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that 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 this product, which contains acetaminophen. To avoid severe liver damage, do not exceed the maximum daily amount of 4 doses (30 mL each) for adults or 4 doses (15 mL each) for children within 24 hours. Be especially careful if you are taking other medications that also contain acetaminophen or if you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Before using this medication, please consult your doctor if you have liver disease. They can provide guidance on whether this product is safe for you and if any dosage adjustments or monitoring are necessary. Your health and safety are the top priority.

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.

Always keep your healthcare provider informed about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. 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 at a temperature no greater than 25°C (77°F). It's important not to refrigerate the product, as this could affect its effectiveness.

When handling the product, always do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to maintain safety and prevent contamination. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

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® COLD & FLU used for?

VICKS® DayQuil® COLD & FLU temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms, including nasal congestion, cough, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever.

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

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

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 VICKS® DayQuil® 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 contraindications for using this product?

Do not use VICKS® DayQuil® COLD & FLU with any other drug containing acetaminophen or if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, as quick medical attention is critical.

What are the potential side effects?

Possible side effects include severe skin reactions, nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. If you experience any severe symptoms, stop use and consult a doctor.

Is it safe to use VICKS® DayQuil® COLD & FLU during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

What should I do if my symptoms persist?

If symptoms worsen or last more than 5 days for children or 7 days for adults, or if fever lasts more than 3 days, consult a doctor.

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

Store at no greater than 25°C and do not refrigerate.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vicks Dayquil (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, 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, cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever.

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

Dosage and Administration

Patients should take the medication only as directed, utilizing the dose cup provided to ensure accurate measurement. It is imperative not to exceed 4 doses within a 24-hour period.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 30 mL administered 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 healthcare professional for appropriate dosing. The medication is not recommended for use in children under 4 years of age.

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) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing an MAOI. This includes certain medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease, as the combination may lead to serious adverse effects. If there is uncertainty about the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

  • It is also advised not to exceed the recommended dosage when using this product.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product containing acetaminophen under certain conditions. Adults should not exceed 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 increases if this product is taken in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen or if an 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. 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 2 days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

General precautions should be taken prior to use. Patients should be advised to seek medical advice if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, a cough associated with excessive phlegm, or a persistent cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Additionally, individuals on a sodium-restricted diet should consult a healthcare provider before use. It is also recommended that patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin consult with a doctor or pharmacist prior to using this product. Patients must adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and should not exceed the directed amount.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial. Patients should be instructed to contact a Poison Control Center or seek emergency medical help without delay, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

Patients should discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. They should also seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 5 days for children or 7 days for adults, if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if redness or swelling occurs, if new symptoms develop, or if a cough recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache lasting longer than expected, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients taking this product containing acetaminophen if the maximum daily dosage is exceeded. For adults, this is defined as more than 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period, while for children, it is more than 4 doses (15 mL each) in the same timeframe. The risk of liver damage is further increased 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 should be aware of the potential for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen. Symptoms may include skin reddening, blisters, and 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 applicable; if a sore throat is severe, persists for more than 2 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 consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, if symptoms worsen or last longer than 5 days in children or 7 days in adults, if fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if redness or swelling is present, if new symptoms arise, or if a cough recurs or occurs with a rash or headache that persists. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition.

Additional precautions should be taken by patients with pre-existing conditions such as liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or those experiencing urinary difficulties due to an enlarged prostate gland. Patients with a persistent or chronic cough, as seen in conditions like smoking, asthma, or emphysema, as well as those on a sodium-restricted diet, should consult a healthcare provider before use. Furthermore, individuals taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist prior to using this product.

In cases of overdose, it is crucial for patients to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, as prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are initially apparent.

Drug Interactions

Patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should consult with a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. This is essential to ensure safe and effective use, as potential interactions may affect the efficacy of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding.

Currently, there are no additional drug interactions or laboratory test interactions reported for this medication. Therefore, routine monitoring or dosage adjustments are not specified beyond the recommendation for patients on warfarin.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vicks Dayquil (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, 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. 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 this product: if a child takes more than 4 doses (15 mL each) within a 24-hour period, this exceeds the maximum daily amount and may pose a risk.

Additionally, caregivers should be instructed to stop use and consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or persist for more than 5 days in pediatric patients.

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. Monitoring for potential adverse effects and therapeutic efficacy is recommended in 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 on 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 studied in relation to dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Consequently, there is no available information regarding the use of this medication in individuals with reduced kidney function. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with renal impairment, as the lack of data necessitates careful consideration of potential risks and benefits.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should exercise caution when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if the following conditions are met: an adult takes more than 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period, which is the maximum daily amount for this product; a child takes more than 4 doses (15 mL each) within a 24-hour period, also the maximum daily amount; the product is taken concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen; or an adult consumes 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

It is recommended that patients with known liver disease consult a healthcare professional prior to use. Monitoring of liver function may be warranted in these patients to prevent potential adverse effects associated with acetaminophen use.

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 should be aware that the lack of immediate symptoms does not preclude the potential for serious adverse effects. Therefore, vigilance and timely action are essential in managing overdose situations effectively.

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 in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified reports of severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen. These reactions include symptoms such as skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, users are advised to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Patients should be instructed 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 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 check with their healthcare provider if they are unsure whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and seek medical advice if they experience symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, they should be informed to stop using the product and consult a doctor if their symptoms worsen or persist beyond 5 days for children or 7 days for adults. If a fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if there is any redness or swelling, patients should also seek medical attention. They should be made aware that new symptoms or a returning cough, especially if accompanied by a rash or persistent headache, may indicate a serious condition and warrant immediate consultation with a healthcare provider.

While using this product, patients must be cautioned not to exceed the recommended dosage. It is essential for patients to consult a doctor before using this medication 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 if they have a cough that produces excessive phlegm or if they have a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Furthermore, patients on a sodium-restricted diet or those taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should 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 temperature not exceeding 25°C. 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 healthcare 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 if no symptoms are apparent.

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.