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Vicks Dayquil

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 650 mg/30 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/30 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
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 650 mg/30 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/30 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
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
69423-843

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Drug Overview

VICKS DayQuil™ is a sugar-free, non-drowsy medication designed to help relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It contains two active ingredients: acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer) and dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant). This product is suitable for people with diabetes and is formulated to temporarily alleviate symptoms such as cough, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever.

By targeting these common discomforts, VICKS DayQuil™ aims to help you feel better while you recover from your cold or flu. It is also alcohol-free, making it a convenient option for those looking for relief without the effects of alcohol.

Uses

If you're dealing with the discomfort of a common cold or flu, this medication can help temporarily relieve your symptoms. It works to ease a cough caused by minor irritation in your throat and bronchial tubes, soothe a sore throat, alleviate headaches, and reduce minor aches and pains. Additionally, it can help lower a fever, making you feel more comfortable as you recover.

Rest assured, this medication does not have any teratogenic effects, meaning it does not cause harm to a developing fetus. You can use it with confidence while managing your cold or flu symptoms.

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. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 30 mL every 4 hours, but remember not to exceed 4 doses in a 24-hour period.

If you're considering this medication for children aged 4 to under 12 years, it's best to consult a doctor first. For children under 4 years old, this medication should not be used at all. Always follow these guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.

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 for clarification.

Additionally, do not use this medication if you are 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. Again, if you have any doubts about your medications, it's best to ask a healthcare professional.

Side Effects

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed the maximum daily amount of 4 doses (30 mL each) within 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, be aware that acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, including skin reddening, blisters, or rash. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

You should also consult a doctor if your sore throat is severe, lasts more than 2 days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. It's important to stop using the product and seek medical advice if your pain or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days, if your fever persists for more than 3 days, or if you notice any new symptoms. If you have liver disease, a cough with excessive mucus, or are taking the blood thinner warfarin, please talk to your doctor before using this product.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 4 doses (30 mL each) in 24 hours, take 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, you should stop using this product and contact your doctor if your pain or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days, if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, if you notice redness or swelling, if new symptoms appear, or if your cough returns with a rash or headache that persists. These could indicate a more serious condition.

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 the outcome.

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 have a child aged 4 to under 12 years, it's important to consult with a doctor before using this medication. For children younger than 4 years, you should not use this product at all.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 30 mL every 4 hours. Always follow these guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of 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, 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

It appears that there is no specific information regarding renal impairment (kidney problems) in the provided text. Therefore, there are no guidelines, dosage adjustments, or monitoring instructions to share for patients with kidney issues. If you have concerns about how your kidney health may affect your treatment, it's important to discuss this with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using products that contain acetaminophen. Taking more than 4 doses (30 mL each) in a 24-hour period can lead to severe liver damage, which is the maximum daily amount for this product. Additionally, avoid using other medications that also contain acetaminophen, as this can increase your risk of liver injury.

It's also crucial to limit alcohol consumption to fewer than 3 drinks per day while using this product, as drinking alcohol can further strain your liver. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about using acetaminophen, especially if you have a history of liver issues.

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 thinner, it's essential to consult your doctor before using this medication. Acetaminophen can affect your INR levels, which are used to monitor how well your blood is clotting. Always discuss your current medications and any lab tests with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and well-being.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place 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 with clean hands and in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. 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™ used for?

VICKS DayQuil™ is used to temporarily relieve common cold and flu symptoms, including cough, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever.

Is VICKS DayQuil™ safe for people with diabetes?

Yes, VICKS DayQuil™ is sugar-free and suitable for people with diabetes.

What should I know about the dosage?

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

Are there any contraindications for using VICKS DayQuil™?

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

What are the liver warnings associated with VICKS DayQuil™?

Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 4 doses in 24 hours, use it with other acetaminophen-containing drugs, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it.

What should I do if I experience a severe skin reaction?

If you notice symptoms like skin 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, consult a health professional before using VICKS DayQuil™.

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.

How should I store VICKS DayQuil™?

Store VICKS DayQuil™ at no greater than 25°C (77°F) and do not refrigerate.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vicks Dayquil (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hbr). 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 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 provided dose cup must be used for accurate measurement.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 30 mL per dose, administered every 4 hours. It is important not to exceed 4 doses within a 24-hour period.

For children aged 4 to under 12 years, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing recommendations. The medication is not indicated 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) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing such treatment. MAOIs are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. If there is uncertainty about the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which carries significant risks that healthcare professionals must communicate to patients.

Liver Warning Severe liver damage may occur if the maximum daily dosage of 4 doses (30 mL each) is exceeded within a 24-hour period. Additionally, the risk of liver damage increases if acetaminophen is taken concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen or if the patient consumes three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Allergy Alert Acetaminophen may lead to severe skin reactions. Symptoms indicative of such reactions include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, patients should discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Sore Throat Warning Patients experiencing a severe sore throat that persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, should be advised to consult a physician promptly.

Discontinuation Criteria Patients should be instructed to stop use and consult a healthcare professional if any of the following occur:

  • Pain or cough worsens or lasts longer than seven days.

  • Fever worsens or persists for more than three days.

  • Redness or swelling is observed.

  • New symptoms develop.

  • Cough recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Healthcare professionals should ensure that patients are aware of these warnings and the importance of monitoring their symptoms while using this product.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of several important warnings and potential adverse reactions.

Severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed the maximum daily dosage of 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period, take this product in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, 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. If any of these symptoms occur, patients are advised to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Patients should also be cautious if they experience a sore throat that is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, as these may indicate a more serious condition requiring prompt medical consultation.

It is recommended that patients stop using the product and consult a doctor if pain or cough worsens or lasts longer than seven days, if fever worsens or persists for more than three days, if redness or swelling is present, if new symptoms arise, or if a cough recurs with a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms could signify a serious underlying condition.

Before using this product, patients with liver disease, a cough that produces excessive phlegm, or a persistent or chronic cough (such as that associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema) should consult a healthcare professional. Furthermore, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

Drug Interactions

Co-administration of this medication with any other drug containing acetaminophen is contraindicated due to the risk of severe liver damage. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to avoid such combinations to ensure patient safety.

Additionally, caution is warranted when this medication is used in conjunction with warfarin. Acetaminophen may influence International Normalized Ratio (INR) levels, potentially altering the anticoagulant effect of warfarin. It is recommended that patients consult their healthcare provider prior to using this medication if they are currently taking warfarin, to assess the need for INR monitoring and possible dosage adjustments.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Vicks Dayquil (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hbr). 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 medication is not recommended for children under 4 years of age. For adolescents and adults aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 30 mL 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. 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. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and lactation. 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 currently no available data regarding the excretion of this medication in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

There is no information available regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for patients with renal impairment. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of specific guidance when prescribing to patients with reduced kidney function.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should be closely monitored when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed the maximum daily dosage of 4 doses (30 mL each) within a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should avoid concomitant use of other medications containing acetaminophen, as this can further increase the risk of liver injury.

It is also advised that patients with compromised liver function refrain from consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product, as alcohol can exacerbate the potential for liver damage. Regular assessment of liver function may be warranted in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment.

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

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 use of the compound in these contexts.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has revealed reports of severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen. These reactions include symptoms such as skin reddening, blisters, and rash. These events have been reported voluntarily or identified through surveillance programs.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. Patients should be informed not to use this product in conjunction with any other medications that contain acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain whether a drug contains acetaminophen, they should be encouraged to consult a doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

It is crucial to inform patients that they should not use this medication if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the past 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 their pain or cough worsens or persists for more than seven days. Additionally, they should stop using the medication and consult a doctor if their fever worsens or lasts longer than three days, if they experience redness or swelling, or if new symptoms arise. Patients should also be made aware that if their cough returns or occurs alongside a rash or persistent headache, they should seek medical attention, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Before using this medication, patients with liver disease should be advised to consult their healthcare provider. Furthermore, patients should be encouraged to seek medical advice if they have a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm or if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as those associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Lastly, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be advised 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 (77°F). Refrigeration is not recommended, as it may compromise the integrity of the product. Proper storage conditions must be maintained to ensure the product's efficacy and safety.

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.