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Vicks Dayquil

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
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
Other brand names
Drug classes
Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
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
69423-803

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Drug Overview

DayQuil™ is a medication designed to temporarily 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). You can use DayQuil™ to help alleviate a sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, fever, and cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation.

This product is formulated to be easy to open and comes in a convenient bottle with 24 LiquiCaps™. It is important to note that DayQuil™ is free from decongestants, making it suitable for those who may have high blood pressure.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It helps ease a cough caused by minor irritation in your throat and bronchial tubes, soothes a sore throat, alleviates headaches, and reduces minor aches and pains. Additionally, it can help lower a fever, making you feel more comfortable while you recover.

Rest assured, this medication does not have any teratogenic effects, meaning it does not cause harm to a developing fetus.

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 (a type of liquid-filled capsule) 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, 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 use it alongside any other drugs that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Additionally, avoid taking this medication if you are currently on 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 take more than 8 LiquiCaps in 24 hours, use 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 notice any skin reactions, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

It's also important to consult a doctor if your sore throat is severe, lasts more than 2 days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. You should stop using the product and contact a healthcare professional if your pain or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days, if your fever worsens or lasts more than 3 days, or if you experience redness, swelling, or new symptoms. These could indicate a more serious condition.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you exceed 8 LiquiCaps in 24 hours, take it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. It's important to be aware of potential severe 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.

If you have a sore throat that is severe, 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 develop, 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, it’s always better to be safe and get checked out by a medical professional.

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 under 4 years old, you should not use this product at all.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is to take 2 LiquiCaps with water every 4 hours, but be careful not to exceed 8 LiquiCaps in a 24-hour period. Always follow these guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of your child.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. Since older adults may have different health needs and responses to medications, you should always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help determine the right dosage and monitor for any potential side effects, ensuring that the treatment is safe and effective for you or your loved one.

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 usual recommendations for monitoring and safety considerations for patients with renal impairment (kidney issues) are not provided.

It's always best to consult with your healthcare provider about your specific situation, as they can offer personalized advice and ensure that any medications you take are safe and effective for you.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. You should not take more than 8 LiquiCaps in a 24-hour period, as exceeding this amount can lead to severe liver damage. Additionally, be aware that taking this product alongside other medications that also contain acetaminophen can increase the risk of liver damage.

If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily, using this product may also pose a risk for severe liver damage. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure your safety while using this medication.

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 increase the risk of liver damage. Additionally, if you're using dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), you should avoid it if you're taking prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have stopped taking them within the last two weeks, as this combination can lead to serious health issues.

Before using products like Vicks DayQuil, it's wise to consult with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you're on blood thinners like warfarin, since acetaminophen can affect your INR levels (a measure of blood clotting). Always discuss any medications or 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). This helps maintain its effectiveness and safety.

When handling the product, be sure to follow any specific instructions provided to avoid contamination or damage. Always keep it in a clean environment to ensure it remains safe for use. If you have any questions about disposal or further handling, consult the guidelines provided with your product.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication to ensure it's safe for you and your baby.

FAQ

What is DayQuil™ used for?

DayQuil™ temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms, including cough, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever.

What are the active ingredients in DayQuil™?

DayQuil™ contains Acetaminophen and Dextromethorphan HBr.

How should I take DayQuil™?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 LiquiCaps with water every 4 hours, not exceeding 8 LiquiCaps in 24 hours.

Can children use DayQuil™?

Children under 4 years should not use DayQuil™, and those aged 4 to under 12 years should ask a doctor before use.

What should I avoid while taking DayQuil™?

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

What are the liver warnings associated with DayQuil™?

Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 8 LiquiCaps in 24 hours, with other acetaminophen-containing drugs, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

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

If you notice symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash, stop using DayQuil™ and seek medical help immediately.

Is DayQuil™ safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

What should I do if my symptoms worsen?

Stop use and consult a doctor if pain or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days, or if fever lasts more than 3 days.

How should I store DayQuil™?

Store DayQuil™ at no greater than 25°C (77°F).

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 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 cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and fever.

There are no teratogenic effects associated with this drug, nor are there any nonteratogenic effects mentioned.

Dosage and Administration

Patients should take the medication only as directed. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 LiquiCaps taken with water every 4 hours, not to exceed 8 LiquiCaps in a 24-hour period.

For children aged 4 to under 12 years, it is advised to consult a physician for appropriate dosing recommendations. 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, 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 is due to the potential for serious interactions that may arise from the combination of these agents. 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

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 particularly warranted if patients are concurrently using other medications that contain acetaminophen or if they consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Acetaminophen has been associated with severe skin reactions. Symptoms indicative of such reactions may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, patients should 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 also be instructed to stop use and seek medical advice 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; or if a cough recurs or occurs alongside a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Side Effects

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

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, particularly if patients exceed the maximum daily dosage of 8 LiquiCaps within a 24-hour period, take 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. If any of these symptoms occur, 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 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 develop, or if a cough recurs or occurs with a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring medical evaluation.

Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen has the potential to increase the risk of liver damage when used concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen or when consumed with three or more alcoholic beverages daily. It is advisable for healthcare providers to monitor liver function in patients who are using acetaminophen in these contexts.

Dextromethorphan is contraindicated in patients who are currently taking prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within two weeks of discontinuing an MAOI, due to the risk of severe interactions. Patients should be counseled to avoid this combination to prevent serious adverse effects.

When considering the use of Vicks DayQuil, it is recommended that patients consult with a healthcare professional if they are taking warfarin, as acetaminophen may influence International Normalized Ratio (INR) levels. Monitoring of INR may be necessary to ensure safe and effective anticoagulation therapy.

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 product is not recommended for 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.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in efficacy, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. 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 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 exercise caution when using this product, which contains acetaminophen. The maximum recommended dosage is 8 LiquiCaps in a 24-hour period. Exceeding this dosage may lead to severe liver damage, particularly in individuals with compromised liver function.

Additionally, patients should be aware that taking acetaminophen in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen can also result in severe liver damage. It is crucial for patients to review all medications with their healthcare provider to avoid unintentional overdose.

Furthermore, patients who consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product are at an increased risk of severe liver damage. It is advisable for these patients to consult with their healthcare provider regarding the safe use of this product and to consider reducing alcohol intake during treatment. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with existing hepatic impairment to ensure safety and efficacy.

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 question. Further studies may be necessary to elucidate these aspects of nonclinical toxicology.

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 cases where a skin reaction occurs, users are 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 informed 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 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 last two weeks. Patients should be advised to check with their healthcare provider or pharmacist 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 notice any 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 ask a doctor before use if they have a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm or if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Lastly, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist prior to 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) 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. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experiences.

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.