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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 2020
Label revision date
February 19, 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
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2020
Label revision date
February 19, 2026
Manufacturer
The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company
Registration number
M012
NDC root
69423-788

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Drug Overview

VICKS DayQuil™ COLD & FLU is a medication designed to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It contains three active ingredients: acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), phenylephrine HCl (a decongestant that helps relieve nasal congestion), and dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant that helps reduce coughing due to minor throat and bronchial irritation).

This product can help alleviate a variety of symptoms, including nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever, all while being non-drowsy and alcohol-free. It comes in a 12 FL OZ (354 ml) bottle, making it easy to use when you need relief from cold and flu symptoms.

Uses

This medication is designed to help you feel better when you're dealing with common cold or flu symptoms. It can temporarily relieve nasal congestion, soothe a cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, and ease a sore throat. Additionally, it can help alleviate headaches, minor aches and pains, and reduce fever.

You can rely on this medication to provide comfort during those times when you’re feeling under the weather, helping you manage the discomfort associated with colds and flu.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to take this medication exactly as directed. Use only the dose cup that comes with the medication to ensure you're measuring the correct amount. You should not take more than 4 doses within 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. Please remember that this medication is not suitable for children under 4 years old.

What to Avoid

It's important to be cautious when using this medication. You should not take it alongside 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 currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of drug used for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease. You should also avoid this medication for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. Again, if you're uncertain about your medications, reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.

Side Effects

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

Be aware that acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, including redness, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately. Additionally, you should consult a doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or have trouble sleeping, if your symptoms worsen or last longer than the recommended time, or if you develop new symptoms. Always seek medical advice before using this product if you have certain health conditions, such as liver disease, heart disease, or diabetes. In case of overdose, contact a medical professional or Poison Control Center right away, as prompt attention is crucial.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed the recommended doses—more than 4 doses (30 mL each) in 24 hours for adults or more than 4 doses (15 mL each) for children. Be cautious if you consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, or if you are taking other medications that also contain acetaminophen. Additionally, be aware that acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or 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, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or a persistent cough. It's also important to check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the blood thinner warfarin. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center right away, even if you don't notice any symptoms.

You should stop using this product and call your doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or unable to sleep, 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. Additionally, if your cough returns or is accompanied by a rash or persistent headache, these could indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Quick action is crucial for both adults and children, even if you don’t see any signs or symptoms of an overdose.

Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get help right away. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in ensuring safety and health.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

When it comes to giving this medication to children, it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure their safety. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the recommended dose is 15 mL every 4 hours, but they should not exceed 4 doses in a 24-hour period. If your child is between 4 and under 6 years old, it's best to consult with a doctor before administering the medication. For children under 4 years old, this medication should not be used at all.

Always keep in mind the maximum daily limit to avoid any potential risks. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your child receives the appropriate care.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. If you or a loved one is an older adult, be sure to discuss any potential risks or concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach, considering any unique health needs or conditions.

Always keep in mind that older adults may have different responses to medications, so regular check-ins with your doctor are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

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 may affect you or how your kidney function might influence its use.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can help monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

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: adults should not take more than 4 doses (30 mL each) in 24 hours, and children should not take more than 4 doses (15 mL each) in the same time frame. Additionally, be aware that taking this product with other medications that also contain acetaminophen can increase the risk of liver damage. If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily, you should also avoid this product.

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

Drug Interactions

It's important to be aware that taking acetaminophen (a common pain reliever) alongside warfarin (a blood thinner) can increase the effects of warfarin, which may raise your risk of bleeding. If you are using both medications, your healthcare provider will likely want to monitor your INR (International Normalized Ratio), a test that helps measure how well your blood is clotting.

Since there are no other known drug interactions or laboratory test interactions, it's still crucial to discuss all medications and supplements you are taking with your healthcare provider. This ensures your safety and helps manage any potential risks effectively. Always keep an open line of communication about your health and medications.

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, make sure to do so in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Always follow any specific instructions provided for safe use and disposal to ensure your safety and the product's effectiveness.

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, Phenylephrine HCl, and Dextromethorphan HBr.

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 liver warnings associated with this product?

Severe liver damage may occur if an adult takes more than 4 doses (30 mL each) in 24 hours, or if taken with other acetaminophen-containing drugs.

What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction?

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

Is VICKS DayQuil™ COLD & FLU safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

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.

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

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

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Concurrent use 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.

  • In patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease, and for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of the MAOI. This is due to the potential for serious drug interactions. If there is uncertainty about whether a prescription drug contains an MAOI, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which carries a significant risk of severe liver damage under certain conditions. Healthcare professionals should be aware that the maximum daily dosage for adults is 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period, and for children, it is 4 doses (15 mL each) in the same timeframe. Liver damage may also occur if this product is taken concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen or if an adult consumes 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

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

Healthcare providers should advise patients to consult a physician prior to using this product 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, a persistent or chronic cough (as seen in smoking, asthma, or emphysema), or if they are on a sodium-restricted diet. Additionally, patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist before use.

In cases of 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 following conditions are met: an adult consumes more than 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period, a child exceeds 4 doses (15 mL each) in the same timeframe, the product is taken concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen, or an 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.

Patients are advised to stop use and consult a healthcare professional if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, 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.

Prior to using this product, patients should consult a doctor if they have a history of liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, a cough associated with excessive phlegm, a persistent or chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if they are on a sodium-restricted diet.

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 in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen has been observed to enhance the anticoagulant effects of warfarin, which may result in an elevated risk of bleeding complications. It is recommended that the International Normalized Ratio (INR) be monitored closely in patients receiving both acetaminophen and warfarin to ensure safe therapeutic levels and to mitigate the risk of adverse effects.

No additional drug interactions or interactions with laboratory tests have been reported.

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 receive a dosage of 15 mL every 4 hours, with a maximum of 4 doses (15 mL each) in a 24-hour period. For children aged 4 to under 6 years, it is advised to consult a doctor before administration. The use of this medication is not recommended for children under 4 years of age.

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.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and maternal health. Healthcare providers can offer guidance tailored to individual circumstances, ensuring the safety of both the patient and the developing fetus or nursing infant.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is no specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating mothers.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the drug insert. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the absence of 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 exercise caution when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. It is critical to note that severe liver damage may occur if the following conditions are met:

  • An adult consumes more than 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period, which is the maximum daily amount for this product.

  • A child consumes more than 4 doses (15 mL each) within a 24-hour period, which is also the maximum daily amount for this product.

  • The product is taken concurrently with other medications that contain acetaminophen.

  • An adult consumes 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients with liver disease are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product to assess the potential risks and determine appropriate usage. Monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with compromised liver function to prevent adverse effects.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt medical intervention is crucial for both adults and children, even in the absence of observable signs or symptoms.

Healthcare professionals are advised to remain vigilant and proactive in managing potential overdose situations. The importance of rapid response cannot be overstated, as timely treatment may significantly influence patient outcomes.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. There are no specific non-teratogenic effects or nonclinical toxicology details available. Additionally, no specific information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology has been provided.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified the following adverse reactions: severe skin reactions, which may include symptoms such as skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is advised to discontinue use and seek medical assistance promptly.

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 medication 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 stopped taking an MAOI within the past two weeks. Patients who are unsure if their prescription medication contains an MAOI should seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Patients should be advised to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, they should be instructed to stop use and seek medical advice 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 be directed to stop use and contact a healthcare provider. New symptoms that arise should prompt a consultation with a doctor, as should a cough that returns or occurs alongside a rash or persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious condition.

While using this product, patients must be reminded 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 accompanied by excessive phlegm or a persistent or chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Furthermore, those on a sodium-restricted diet or taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should consult a doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in configurations that include specific NDC numbers. It is essential to store the product at a temperature not exceeding 25°C. Refrigeration is not recommended. Proper handling should be observed to maintain the integrity of the product during storage.

Additional Clinical Information

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

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Vicks Dayquil, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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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.