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Vicks Dayquil

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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 2023
Label revision date
November 6, 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 2023
Label revision date
November 6, 2025
Manufacturer
The Procter & Gamble Manufacturing Company
Registration number
M012
NDC root
69423-800

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Drug Overview

VICKS® DayQuil™ is a cold and flu medication designed to provide temporary relief from common symptoms associated with these illnesses. 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 alleviates cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation).

This non-drowsy formulation helps ease a variety of symptoms, including nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever. The LiquiCaps™ are designed to be 25% smaller and easy to swallow, making it convenient for you to take when you're feeling under the weather.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It helps ease nasal congestion, cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, and sore throat. Additionally, it can alleviate headaches, minor aches and pains, and fever.

This medication is designed to provide comfort when you're feeling under the weather, helping you manage those bothersome symptoms effectively.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to take this medication exactly as directed. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 LiquiCaps with water every 4 hours, but make sure not to exceed 8 LiquiCaps in a 24-hour period.

If you have children between the ages of 4 and under 12 years, it's best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. For children under 4 years old, do not use this product at all. Always follow these guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

It's important to be cautious when using this medication. You should not take it alongside any other drugs that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication has acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Additionally, avoid using 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 refrain from using it for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. If you have any questions about your medications, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional.

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 8 Liquicaps in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, such as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. 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 you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, if your pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days, or if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days. Other signs to watch for include redness or swelling, new symptoms, or a cough that returns with a rash or headache. These could indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you take more than 8 Liquicaps in 24 hours, use it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Be aware that acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions, such as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

If you have a severe sore throat that lasts more than 2 days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult your doctor right away. Additionally, stop using the product and contact your doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than 7 days, or if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days. New symptoms or a cough that returns with a rash or headache could indicate a serious condition, so it's important to seek medical advice in these cases.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Quick medical attention 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 it’s always better to be safe and 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

If you are considering using this medication for your child, it's important to know the guidelines. For children aged 4 to under 12 years, you should consult a doctor before use. However, this medication is not recommended for children under 4 years old. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the typical dosage is 2 LiquiCaps taken with water every 4 hours, but you should not exceed 8 LiquiCaps in a 24-hour period.

In the event of an overdose, it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately for both adults and children, even if there are no noticeable symptoms. Always prioritize safety and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about using this medication for your child.

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 considering this medication, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. 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 there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the standard recommendations for the medication do not include special monitoring or safety considerations tailored for patients with 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 situation. They can help determine the best course of action based on your kidney health.

Hepatic Impairment

It's important to be cautious if you have liver problems, especially when using products that contain acetaminophen. This medication can cause severe liver damage if you exceed the maximum daily limit of 8 Liquicaps in 24 hours, take it alongside other medications that also contain acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks each day while using it.

To protect your liver, always follow the recommended dosage and avoid mixing it with other acetaminophen-containing products or alcohol. If you have any concerns about your liver health or how to safely use this medication, please consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be aware of how certain medications can interact with each other and with your health. For instance, taking acetaminophen (a common pain reliever) alongside other products that contain acetaminophen or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily can significantly increase the risk of severe liver damage. Additionally, if you are using dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), you should avoid it if you are taking prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have stopped taking them within the last two weeks, as this can lead to serious health issues.

Before starting any new medication, including over-the-counter products, it's crucial to discuss your current medications with your healthcare provider. For example, if you are taking warfarin (a blood thinner), acetaminophen can affect your INR levels, which are important for monitoring your blood's clotting ability. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist to ensure your safety and well-being.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, store it at a temperature not exceeding 25°C (77°F). This helps maintain its quality and performance.

When handling the product, be sure to follow any specific instructions provided to avoid contamination or damage. Proper storage and careful handling are essential for 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™ used for?

VICKS® DayQuil™ is used to temporarily relieve 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™?

The active ingredients in VICKS® DayQuil™ are Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine HCl, and Dextromethorphan HBr.

How should I take VICKS® DayQuil™?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 LiquiCaps with water every 4 hours, not exceeding 8 LiquiCaps in 24 hours. For children 4 to under 12 years, consult a doctor.

Are there any warnings associated with VICKS® DayQuil™?

Yes, you should not exceed 8 LiquiCaps in 24 hours, avoid using with other drugs containing acetaminophen, and limit alcohol consumption to less than 3 drinks daily while using this product.

What should I do if I experience severe skin reactions?

If you experience severe skin reactions such as reddening, blisters, or rash, stop using VICKS® DayQuil™ and seek medical help immediately.

Can I use VICKS® DayQuil™ if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should ask a health professional before using VICKS® DayQuil™.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical attention immediately, even if no signs or symptoms are present.

Is VICKS® DayQuil™ safe for children under 4 years?

No, VICKS® DayQuil™ should not be used in children under 4 years of age.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vicks Dayquil (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hbr, phenylephrine hcl). 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 take the medication only as directed. The recommended dosage for adults and children aged 12 years and older is 2 LiquiCaps taken with water every 4 hours, not to exceed 8 LiquiCaps within a 24-hour period.

For children aged 4 to under 12 years, it is advised to consult a physician for appropriate dosing. The use of this medication is not recommended for 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, is prohibited 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.

Additionally, this product should not be used in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing an MAOI. MAOIs are commonly 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.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage, which is a maximum of 8 Liquicaps in a 24-hour period. Caution is also warranted when this product is used in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, as this can increase the risk of liver injury. Additionally, patients should be informed that consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product may further elevate the risk of liver damage.

Acetaminophen has been associated with severe skin reactions. Symptoms indicative of such reactions may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of any skin reaction, patients must be instructed to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

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

Patients should be instructed to stop use and seek medical advice if they experience any of the following: nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than 7 days; fever that worsens or lasts more than 3 days; presence of redness or swelling; occurrence of new symptoms; or if a cough recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache lasting for an extended period. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Emergency medical help should be sought if any severe adverse reactions occur, although specific instructions for such situations are not provided in the current guidelines. Regular monitoring and assessment of the patient's condition are recommended to ensure safe use of this product.

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 this product, particularly if patients exceed the maximum daily dosage of 8 Liquicaps within a 24-hour period, use other medications containing acetaminophen concurrently, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Additionally, acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, patients are advised to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Patients should also be cautious regarding sore throat symptoms. If a sore throat is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, it is recommended that they consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Patients are advised to stop using the product and seek medical advice if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Other concerning symptoms include worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than seven days, fever worsening or lasting more than three days, presence of redness or swelling, new symptoms, or a cough that recurs or occurs with a rash or headache lasting. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring medical evaluation.

Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen has the potential to increase the risk of severe liver damage when used concurrently with other products containing acetaminophen or in individuals consuming three or more alcoholic beverages daily.

Dextromethorphan is contraindicated in patients taking prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within two weeks of discontinuing an MAOI, due to the risk of serious interactions.

Patients taking warfarin should consult a healthcare professional prior to using acetaminophen, as it may influence International Normalized Ratio (INR) levels. Monitoring of INR may be warranted in these cases.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Vicks Dayquil.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients aged 4 to under 12 years should consult a healthcare professional before use. The product is contraindicated in children under 4 years of age. For adolescents and adults aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 LiquiCaps taken with water every 4 hours, with a maximum of 8 LiquiCaps in a 24-hour period. In the event of an overdose, prompt medical attention is essential for both children and adults, even if no immediate signs or symptoms are present.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully 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 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 individuals.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the available data regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with reduced kidney function, as the lack of information necessitates careful clinical judgment and monitoring.

Hepatic Impairment

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

The maximum recommended dosage for this product is 8 Liquicaps in a 24-hour period. Patients with compromised liver function should not exceed this limit, as doing so may significantly increase the risk of severe liver damage. Additionally, patients must avoid concomitant use of other medications that contain acetaminophen, as this can further elevate the risk of hepatotoxicity.

Furthermore, patients are advised to limit alcohol consumption to fewer than 3 alcoholic drinks per day while using this product. Regular intake of alcohol can exacerbate liver impairment and increase the likelihood of liver damage when combined with acetaminophen.

Monitoring of liver function is recommended for patients with hepatic impairment who are prescribed this product. Regular assessment of liver enzymes may be warranted to ensure that liver function remains stable and to detect any potential adverse effects early.

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 essential 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 crucial 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 limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the compound in these areas.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen. Reported symptoms may include 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 stopped taking an MAOI within the last two weeks. Patients who are unsure if their prescription medication contains an MAOI should be advised to seek clarification from a healthcare professional.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, they should be advised to stop use and seek medical advice if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists for more than seven days, if fever worsens or lasts more than three days, or if any redness or swelling occurs. Patients should also be informed to stop use and consult a doctor if new symptoms arise or if a cough returns or occurs alongside a rash or headache that lasts, as these may indicate a serious condition.

When 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 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 encouraged to consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a temperature not exceeding 25°C to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper storage conditions should be observed to ensure optimal performance.

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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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.