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Cvs Daytime Cold and Flu Relief

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 650 mg/30 mL
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/30 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/30 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/30 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, 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 2023
Label revision date
December 9, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 650 mg/30 mL
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/30 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/30 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/30 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, 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 2023
Label revision date
December 9, 2025
Manufacturer
CVS PHARMACY
Registration number
M012
NDC root
51316-727

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Drug Overview

CVS Daytime Severe Cold & Flu Liquid is a medication designed to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It contains three active ingredients: acetaminophen, which acts as a pain reliever and fever reducer; dextromethorphan HBr, a cough suppressant; and phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant. Together, these ingredients help alleviate nasal and sinus congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, headaches, fever, and sore throat.

In addition to relieving these symptoms, this liquid formulation helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making it easier to clear mucus from the bronchial passageways and promote more productive coughing. This can help you breathe more freely and feel more comfortable when dealing with cold or flu symptoms.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve various symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It helps ease nasal and sinus congestion, reduces pressure in your sinuses, and alleviates cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation. Additionally, it can help with minor aches and pains, headaches, fever, and sore throats. By reducing swelling in the nasal passages, it promotes easier breathing and helps drain mucus from your nasal and sinus areas.

This medication also works to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making it easier to clear out bothersome mucus from your airways, which can help make your cough more productive.

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 measure 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 you have a child between the ages of 4 and 12, it's best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. For children under 4 years old, do not use this medication 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 contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, avoid using this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for conditions like depression or Parkinson's disease, or if you have stopped taking an MAOI within the last two weeks. Again, if you're uncertain about your medications, don't hesitate to ask a healthcare professional.

Always follow the dosage instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount. Taking more than directed can lead to serious health issues. Your safety is the top priority, so if you have any questions or concerns, reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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 four doses in 24 hours, combine it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Additionally, acetaminophen may cause serious skin reactions, such as skin reddening, blisters, or rashes. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

It's also important to consult a doctor if you experience severe sore throat that lasts more than two days, especially if accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. You should stop using the product and seek medical advice if you feel nervous, dizzy, or unable to sleep, if your pain or cough worsens or lasts more than seven days, if your fever persists for more than three days, or if you notice any 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 4 doses in 24 hours, take it with other acetaminophen-containing medications, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Be aware that acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any skin issues, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately. Additionally, 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 promptly.

Before using this product, it's important to talk to 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, a cough with excessive mucus, or a persistent cough from smoking or asthma. If you are taking the blood thinner warfarin, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use. In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) immediately, even if you don't notice any symptoms.

You should stop taking this product and call your doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or unable to sleep; if your pain, nasal congestion, 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. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. 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 are considering this medication for your child, it's important to know the age guidelines. For children aged 4 to under 12 years, you should consult with a doctor before use. This ensures that the medication is appropriate and safe for your child's specific needs.

For children under 4 years old, it is advised not to use this medication at all. Always prioritize your child's safety by following these recommendations and seeking professional advice when necessary.

Geriatric Use

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

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to consult your doctor before using this medication, especially if you experience difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Your healthcare provider can help determine if this medication is safe for you and may suggest adjustments to your dosage or monitoring based on your specific kidney function. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding any concerns related to your kidney health.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using this product, as it contains acetaminophen. Taking more than 4 doses in a 24-hour period can lead to severe liver damage, which is the maximum daily amount for this medication. Additionally, combining this product with other medications that also contain acetaminophen or consuming 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it can increase the risk of liver damage.

Before using this product, you should 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 paramount, so don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you. Always share your complete list of medications and any health conditions you have to receive the best care possible.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at room temperature. It's important to avoid refrigerating it, as this can affect its effectiveness. When handling the product, make sure to do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to maintain its integrity and safety. Following these simple guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What is CVS Daytime Severe Cold & Flu Liquid used for?

It temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms such as nasal congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, headache, fever, and sore throat.

What are the active ingredients in CVS Daytime Severe Cold & Flu Liquid?

The active ingredients are acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), and phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant).

How should I take CVS Daytime Severe Cold & Flu Liquid?

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 this product?

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

What should I do if I experience severe skin reactions?

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

What precautions should I take before using this product?

Consult a doctor if you have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or if you are taking blood thinners like warfarin.

What should I do in case of overdose?

Get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, as quick medical attention is critical.

Can I use this product if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before use.

What are the storage instructions for this product?

Store at room temperature and do not refrigerate.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cvs Daytime Cold and Flu Relief (acetaminohpen, dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cvs Daytime Cold and Flu Relief.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cvs Daytime Cold and Flu Relief, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold and influenza. Specifically, it alleviates nasal congestion, sinus congestion and pressure, cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, minor aches and pains, headache, fever, and sore throat. Additionally, it reduces swelling of the nasal passages, temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose, and promotes nasal and/or sinus drainage.

This drug also aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, facilitating the clearance of bothersome mucus from the bronchial passageways and making coughs more productive.

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

Dosage and Administration

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

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 30 mL every 4 hours as needed.

For children aged 4 years 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:

  • Co-administration with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or non-prescription, 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), which are utilized for the treatment of depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease, is contraindicated. This includes a restriction on use for 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. If there is uncertainty about the presence of an MAOI in a prescription medication, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

  • Exceeding the recommended dosage is also contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients that the risk of liver injury increases if they exceed four doses 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.

Acetaminophen may also cause severe skin reactions. Symptoms indicative of such reactions include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. Patients should be instructed to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance if any skin reaction occurs.

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

General precautions should be taken for patients with specific health conditions. Prior to use, individuals should consult a healthcare provider if they have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, a cough associated with excessive phlegm, or a persistent cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Additionally, those on a sodium-restricted diet should seek medical advice before use. It is also important to consult a doctor or pharmacist if the patient is taking the anticoagulant warfarin.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial. Patients should be instructed to contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical help right away, as prompt intervention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms.

Patients should discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond seven days; if fever worsens or lasts more than three 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 usual. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of several potential adverse reactions, which can range from serious to common.

Severe liver damage is a significant concern associated with the use of this product, particularly in patients who exceed the maximum recommended dosage of four doses within a 24-hour period, take it in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Additionally, there is an allergy alert regarding the potential for severe skin reactions due to acetaminophen. Symptoms of such reactions may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. Patients experiencing any of these symptoms should discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Patients should also be vigilant for signs of a severe sore throat, particularly if it persists for more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. In such cases, prompt consultation with a healthcare provider is advised.

Common adverse reactions that warrant discontinuation of use and consultation with a healthcare professional include nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Patients should also seek medical advice if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts longer than seven days, if fever intensifies or persists beyond three days, if redness or swelling occurs, if new symptoms arise, or if a cough recurs alongside a rash or headache lasting for an extended period. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there is no information available regarding interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cvs Daytime Cold and Flu Relief (acetaminohpen, dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cvs Daytime Cold and Flu Relief.
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.

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. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data 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

Patients with renal impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to use, particularly if they experience difficulties with urination due to an enlarged prostate gland. It is essential to assess renal function and consider potential dosing adjustments or monitoring requirements based on the patient's specific renal status.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should exercise caution when using this product, as it contains acetaminophen, which is associated with the risk of severe liver damage. It is critical that patients do not exceed 4 doses within a 24-hour period, as this represents the maximum daily amount for this product. Additionally, patients should avoid concomitant use with other medications containing acetaminophen, as this can further increase the risk of liver injury.

Patients with compromised liver function are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product, particularly if they have a history of liver disease. Furthermore, it is recommended that patients limit alcohol consumption to fewer than 3 alcoholic drinks per day while using this product, as excessive alcohol intake can exacerbate the risk of liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with existing liver conditions 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 at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt medical intervention is crucial 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, it is essential to monitor the patient closely and provide appropriate care as needed.

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 nonclinical toxicology section does not contain any relevant data at this time.

Postmarketing Experience

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

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) in the event of an overdose, as prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.

Patients should be informed not to use this product in conjunction with any other medications containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or non-prescription. If patients are uncertain about the presence of acetaminophen in their medications, they should be encouraged to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

It is important to instruct patients not to 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 should be advised to verify with a healthcare professional if they are unsure whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Patients should be counseled 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. New symptoms that arise should also prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider.

Patients should be made aware that if a cough returns or occurs alongside a rash or persistent headache, they should seek medical attention, as these may indicate a serious condition. It is essential to emphasize that patients must not exceed the recommended dosage when using this product.

Healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor before 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, or a persistent or chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Patients on a sodium-restricted diet should also be advised to seek medical guidance prior to use. Furthermore, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be instructed 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 room temperature, ensuring that it is not subjected to refrigeration. Proper storage conditions are crucial to maintain the integrity and efficacy of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cvs Daytime Cold and Flu Relief, 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 Cvs Daytime Cold and Flu Relief, 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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Primary FDA sources:

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.