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Severe Daytime Cold and Flu

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, 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 2021
Label revision date
January 19, 2026
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, 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 2021
Label revision date
January 19, 2026
Manufacturer
Walgreens
Registration number
M012
NDC root
0363-8996

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Drug Overview

Walgreens Severe Cold & Flu is a maximum strength medication designed to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold and flu. It comes in softgel form and is formulated to be non-drowsy, making it suitable for daytime use. This product contains several active ingredients: acetaminophen, which helps reduce aches, fever, and sore throat; dextromethorphan HBr, a cough suppressant; guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps loosen mucus; and phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant that reduces swelling in the nasal passages.

By combining these ingredients, Walgreens Severe Cold & Flu addresses a range of symptoms, including nasal and sinus congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, headaches, and fever. It works to promote nasal drainage, ease throat irritation, and make coughs more productive by thinning bronchial secretions. This makes it a helpful option for managing the discomfort that often accompanies cold and flu illnesses.

Uses

This medication is designed to temporarily relieve a variety of common cold and flu symptoms. If you're dealing with nasal or sinus congestion and pressure, this product can help reduce swelling in your nasal passages, making it easier for you to breathe. It also addresses minor aches and pains, headaches, fever, and sore throats.

In addition to easing these discomforts, it promotes drainage in your nasal and sinus areas and helps loosen phlegm (mucus). This can make your coughs more productive by clearing out bothersome mucus from your bronchial passageways. Overall, it aims to provide you with relief so you can feel more comfortable while you recover.

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 softgels with a glass of water every 4 hours. However, make sure not to exceed 4 doses in a 24-hour period. If you're considering giving this medication to a child between 4 and 12 years old, it's best to consult a doctor first. For children under 4 years old, this medication should not be used.

If you are using other nighttime or daytime products, be sure to read each label carefully to ensure you are taking the correct dose. This will help you avoid any potential overdosing and ensure your safety while using the medication.

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, or for two weeks after stopping an MAOI. Again, if you're uncertain about your medications, it's best to ask a healthcare professional.

Side Effects

You should be aware that taking more than the recommended dose of this medication can lead to severe liver damage, especially if you exceed four doses in 24 hours, combine it with other products containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily. Additionally, some people may experience serious skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rashes. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

It's important to consult a doctor if you have a severe sore throat that lasts more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting. You should also stop using the medication and contact a healthcare professional if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, or if your symptoms worsen or persist beyond the recommended time frames. Always seek medical advice if you are taking other medications, especially blood thinners like warfarin, or if you have existing health conditions such as liver disease, heart disease, or diabetes.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you take more than 4 doses 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 experience 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 promptly.

Before using this product, talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or a persistent cough. If you are taking the blood thinner warfarin, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use. Always follow the recommended dosage; taking more than directed can lead to serious health issues. In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

Stop using this product and call your doctor if you feel nervous, dizzy, or sleepless, 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 notice any new symptoms. These could indicate a more serious condition.

Overdose

Taking more of this medication than directed can lead to serious health issues. 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.

Be aware that signs of an overdose can vary, but it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you or someone else has taken too much, don’t wait for symptoms to appear—get help right away.

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 2 softgels taken with water every 4 hours, but be careful not to exceed 4 doses in a 24-hour period. 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 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 the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication should be used if you have 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 kidney health. They can help determine the best course of action based on your individual needs.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver disease, it's important to consult your doctor before using this product. It contains acetaminophen, which can be harmful to your liver. To avoid severe liver damage, do not take more than 4 doses in a 24-hour period, as this is the maximum daily amount. Additionally, be cautious if you are taking other medications that also contain acetaminophen, and limit your alcohol intake to fewer than 3 drinks per day while using this product. Always prioritize your liver health and follow your healthcare provider's advice.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be aware of how certain medications can interact with each other and with your lifestyle choices. For instance, if you take acetaminophen (a common pain reliever), combining it with other medications that also contain acetaminophen or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily can increase the risk of liver damage.

Additionally, if you are on warfarin (a blood thinner), taking acetaminophen may change how warfarin works in your body. This means you should have your INR (a blood test that measures how well your blood clots) monitored regularly. Always discuss any medications or lifestyle habits with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and well-being.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance and safety of your product, it is important to store it at room temperature. This means keeping it in a place that is not too hot or too cold, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).

When handling the product, make sure to do so with clean hands and in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Always follow any specific instructions provided with the product for safe use and disposal. By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that the product remains effective and safe for your needs.

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 Walgreens Severe Cold & Flu used for?

Walgreens Severe Cold & Flu temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms, including nasal congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, headache, fever, and sore throat.

What are the active ingredients in Walgreens Severe Cold & Flu?

The active ingredients include acetaminophen (for aches and fever), dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant), guaifenesin (expectorant), and phenylephrine HCl (nasal decongestant).

How should I take Walgreens Severe Cold & Flu?

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

Are there any contraindications for using this product?

Do not use Walgreens Severe Cold & Flu 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 are the warnings associated with this product?

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

What should I do in case of overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, as quick medical attention is critical.

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

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before using Walgreens Severe Cold & Flu.

What should I do if my symptoms persist?

If your pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days, or if fever lasts more than 3 days, stop use and consult a doctor.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Severe Daytime Cold and Flu (acetaminophen, guaifenesin, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Severe Daytime Cold and Flu.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Severe Daytime Cold and Flu, 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 specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold and influenza. Specifically, it addresses the following symptoms: nasal congestion, sinus congestion and pressure, cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, minor aches and pains, headache, fever, and sore throat.

Additionally, this drug reduces swelling of the nasal passages, temporarily restores freer breathing through the nose, promotes nasal and/or sinus drainage, and helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions. This action aids in clearing the bronchial passageways of bothersome mucus, thereby 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. The maximum allowable dosage is four doses within a 24-hour period.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is two softgels taken with water every four hours.

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

When using other nighttime or daytime products, it is essential to carefully read each label to ensure correct dosing and avoid exceeding the recommended limits.

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. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in a medication, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

  • The product should not be used in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for conditions such as depression, psychiatric or emotional disorders, or Parkinson's disease, nor within 2 weeks of discontinuing an MAOI. If there is uncertainty about whether a prescription medication contains an MAOI, a healthcare professional should be consulted prior to use.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which poses a risk of severe liver damage if the following conditions are met: exceeding 4 doses within a 24-hour period (the maximum daily amount), concurrent use with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consumption of 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Acetaminophen may also lead to severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. Should any skin reaction occur, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor promptly if they experience a severe sore throat that persists for more than 2 days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

Taking more than the recommended dosage can result in serious health complications. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial; patients should contact a Poison Control Center without delay, as rapid intervention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable symptoms.

General precautions should be taken prior to use. Patients should be advised to consult a healthcare provider 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, or a cough associated with excessive phlegm. Additionally, individuals with a persistent or chronic cough, such as those caused by smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should seek medical advice before using this product. It is also recommended that patients consult a doctor or pharmacist if they are currently taking the anticoagulant warfarin.

While using this product, patients must adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and should not exceed the directed amount.

Patients should be instructed to stop taking the product and contact their healthcare provider 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 persists for more than 3 days; presence of redness or swelling; occurrence of new symptoms; or a cough that recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients who exceed the maximum daily dosage of four doses within a 24-hour period, take the product in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients should be aware that acetaminophen may lead to severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

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

This product should not be used in conjunction with any other drug containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. Patients taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease should avoid this product and for two weeks after discontinuing the MAOI. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a prescription drug, patients should consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Patients with liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or those experiencing trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland should seek medical advice before using this product. Additionally, individuals with a cough that produces excessive phlegm or those with a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should also consult a healthcare professional prior to use.

Patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should ask a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Discontinuation of use and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended if patients 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 arise; or if a cough recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition.

An overdose of this product can lead to serious health complications. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately, as prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.

Drug Interactions

Acetaminophen has the potential to increase the risk of liver damage when used concurrently with other medications containing acetaminophen or in individuals consuming three or more alcoholic beverages daily. It is advisable for healthcare providers to assess the total daily intake of acetaminophen from all sources to mitigate this risk.

Additionally, the anticoagulant effects of warfarin may be influenced by the concomitant use of acetaminophen. It is recommended that healthcare professionals monitor the International Normalized Ratio (INR) in patients receiving this combination to ensure therapeutic efficacy and safety.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Severe Daytime Cold and Flu (acetaminophen, guaifenesin, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Severe Daytime Cold and Flu.
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 softgels taken with water every 4 hours, with a maximum of 4 doses within a 24-hour period.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information 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. 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 safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

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 drug 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 have not been specifically addressed in the drug insert regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as there is no available data to guide treatment decisions in this population. Regular monitoring of renal function may be warranted in these patients, although specific recommendations are not provided.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product. The presence of liver disease may increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly due to the acetaminophen content.

Severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed the maximum recommended dosage of four doses within a 24-hour period. Additionally, caution is advised against the concurrent use of other medications containing acetaminophen, as this may further elevate the risk of liver injury.

Patients are also advised to limit alcohol consumption to fewer than three alcoholic drinks per day while using this product, as alcohol can exacerbate the potential for liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with compromised liver function to ensure safety and efficacy.

Overdosage

In cases of overdosage, the ingestion of amounts exceeding the recommended dosage can lead to significant health complications. It is imperative that healthcare professionals advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Recommended Actions

Prompt medical intervention is crucial for both adults and children, regardless of whether any symptoms are immediately apparent. The absence of noticeable signs or symptoms does not preclude the potential for serious health issues arising from an overdose.

Potential Symptoms

While specific symptoms of overdosage may vary depending on the substance involved, healthcare providers should remain vigilant for any unusual or severe reactions in patients who have exceeded the recommended dosage.

Management Procedures

Upon recognition of an overdose, healthcare professionals should initiate appropriate management protocols, which may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment. Continuous monitoring of the patient’s condition is essential to address any emerging complications effectively.

In summary, the importance of swift action in the event of an overdose cannot be overstated, as timely medical care is critical to mitigate potential health risks.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic effects have been reported in the available data. Additionally, there is no information regarding non-teratogenic effects. The nonclinical toxicology section does not provide any specific details. Furthermore, there is no information available concerning animal pharmacology and toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified rare cases of severe skin reactions associated with the use of acetaminophen. Reported symptoms include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, 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 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 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 they experience symptoms such as nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, they should be advised to stop using the product and consult a doctor if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists for more than seven days, or if fever worsens or lasts more than three days. Patients should also be informed to seek medical attention if they notice any redness or swelling, 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. Healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor before use 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, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Lastly, 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 to maintain its efficacy and stability. Proper handling should be observed to ensure the integrity of the product throughout its shelf life.

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 Severe Daytime Cold and Flu, 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 Severe Daytime Cold and Flu, 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.