What are the common NyQuil side effects experienced the day after use. How long do NyQuil side effects typically last. What can you do to minimize NyQuil side effects the next day. Is it safe to drive or operate machinery after taking NyQuil. How does NyQuil affect sleep quality and next-day alertness.

Understanding NyQuil: Composition and Uses

NyQuil Cold & Flu is a widely used over-the-counter medication designed to alleviate symptoms associated with the common cold, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. This combination drug contains three primary active ingredients: acetaminophen, chlorpheniramine, and dextromethorphan. Each component serves a specific purpose in addressing various cold and flu symptoms.

• Acetaminophen: A non-aspirin pain reliever and fever reducer
• Chlorpheniramine: An antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms
• Dextromethorphan: A cough suppressant that reduces the urge to cough

NyQuil is formulated to provide temporary relief from symptoms such as cough, stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, and fever. Its efficacy in managing these symptoms has made it a popular choice for many individuals seeking respite from cold and flu discomfort.

Common Side Effects of NyQuil

While NyQuil can be effective in managing cold and flu symptoms, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects that may occur, particularly the day after use. These side effects can vary from person to person and may depend on factors such as dosage, individual sensitivity, and concurrent use of other medications.

Drowsiness and Fatigue

One of the most commonly reported next-day side effects of NyQuil is drowsiness. The antihistamine component, chlorpheniramine, can have a sedating effect that may persist into the following day. This drowsiness can manifest as:

• Difficulty waking up in the morning
• Feeling groggy or “out of it”
• Reduced alertness and concentration
• General fatigue throughout the day

Can NyQuil affect your ability to drive or operate machinery the next day? Yes, the lingering drowsiness from NyQuil can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness and quick reflexes. It’s advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you’re certain the effects have worn off.

Dry Mouth and Throat

Another common side effect that may persist into the next day is dry mouth and throat. This is primarily due to the antihistamine component of NyQuil, which can reduce saliva production. The dryness may lead to:

• Increased thirst
• Difficulty swallowing
• Slightly hoarse voice
• Increased susceptibility to oral infections

Staying well-hydrated can help alleviate this side effect and promote overall recovery from cold and flu symptoms.

Digestive System Effects

NyQuil can also have an impact on the digestive system, with some effects potentially lasting into the next day. These may include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite

Does NyQuil cause stomach discomfort in everyone? No, not everyone experiences digestive side effects from NyQuil. However, if you’re prone to stomach sensitivity, taking the medication with food may help reduce the likelihood of these effects.

Cognitive and Mood-Related Side Effects

Some individuals may experience cognitive and mood-related side effects the day after taking NyQuil. These can include:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Mild confusion or disorientation
• Irritability
• Mild anxiety or restlessness

These effects are typically mild and subside as the medication is fully metabolized and eliminated from the body. However, they can be more pronounced in older adults or those with pre-existing cognitive conditions.

Managing NyQuil Side Effects

While side effects from NyQuil can be uncomfortable, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize their impact and manage them effectively the next day:

1. Ensure adequate sleep: Allow yourself plenty of time to sleep after taking NyQuil, ideally 8-10 hours.
2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to combat dry mouth and help flush the medication from your system.
3. Avoid alcohol: Combining alcohol with NyQuil can intensify side effects and potentially harm your liver.
4. Plan ahead: If possible, avoid scheduling important tasks or meetings for the morning after taking NyQuil.
5. Consider timing: Taking NyQuil earlier in the evening may help reduce next-day drowsiness.
6. Gradual wake-up: Use a gradual wake-up method, such as a light-based alarm clock, to ease the transition to wakefulness.
7. Light exercise: Gentle morning exercise can help increase alertness and combat fatigue.

How long do NyQuil side effects typically last? For most people, side effects subside within 24 hours after the last dose. However, individual experiences may vary based on factors such as metabolism, dosage, and frequency of use.

Potential Risks and Warnings

While NyQuil is generally safe when used as directed, there are important warnings and potential risks to be aware of:

Acetaminophen Toxicity

One of the most critical warnings associated with NyQuil pertains to its acetaminophen content. Acetaminophen, while effective for pain relief and fever reduction, can cause severe liver damage if taken in excessive amounts.

• Adults should not exceed 4000 milligrams (4 grams) of acetaminophen per day.
• Individuals with liver problems and children should take lower doses.
• Avoid combining NyQuil with other acetaminophen-containing products.

What are the signs of acetaminophen overdose? Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, stomach pain, extreme fatigue, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and dark urine. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose, even if you feel well initially.

Alcohol Interaction

Combining NyQuil with alcohol can significantly increase the risk of liver damage and intensify side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness. It’s crucial to avoid alcohol consumption while taking NyQuil and for several hours afterward.

Use in Children

NyQuil is not recommended for children under 12 years of age, and certain formulations are not suitable for those under 6. Always consult a pediatrician before administering cold and flu medications to children.

Long-Term Use and Dependency Concerns

While NyQuil is intended for short-term use to alleviate cold and flu symptoms, some individuals may be tempted to use it for extended periods, particularly to aid sleep. This practice can lead to several concerns:

Tolerance Development

Regular use of NyQuil, especially for its sedating effects, can lead to tolerance. This means that over time, higher doses may be required to achieve the same effect, potentially increasing the risk of side effects and complications.

Rebound Insomnia

Discontinuing NyQuil after prolonged use as a sleep aid can result in rebound insomnia, where sleep becomes more difficult without the medication.

Masking Underlying Conditions

Relying on NyQuil for extended periods may mask underlying health issues that require proper medical attention. Chronic symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Is it possible to become dependent on NyQuil? While NyQuil is not considered addictive in the traditional sense, psychological dependence can develop, particularly if it’s used regularly as a sleep aid. It’s important to use NyQuil only as directed and for its intended purpose.

Alternatives and Complementary Approaches

For those concerned about NyQuil side effects or looking for alternative ways to manage cold and flu symptoms, several options are available:

Natural Remedies

• Honey and lemon tea for sore throat and cough
• Nasal irrigation with saline solution for congestion
• Steam inhalation to relieve sinus pressure
• Ginger or peppermint tea for nausea

Lifestyle Modifications

• Adequate rest and sleep
• Proper hydration
• Humidifier use to moisten air and ease congestion
• Gentle exercise, if feeling up to it, to boost immunity

Over-the-Counter Alternatives

• Single-ingredient medications targeting specific symptoms
• Non-drowsy daytime cold and flu formulations
• Herbal supplements like echinacea or elderberry (consult with a healthcare provider first)

Can natural remedies be as effective as NyQuil for cold and flu symptoms? While some natural remedies can provide relief for certain symptoms, their effectiveness can vary. It’s important to remember that they may not work as quickly or comprehensively as medications like NyQuil. Always consult with a healthcare provider before replacing prescribed treatments with natural alternatives.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While NyQuil can effectively manage many cold and flu symptoms, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. Be alert for the following signs that may indicate a more serious condition:

• Fever above 103°F (39.4°C) or fever lasting more than three days
• Severe headache or neck stiffness
• Persistent vomiting
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Symptoms that worsen or do not improve after 7-10 days

Additionally, individuals with chronic health conditions, weakened immune systems, or those who are pregnant should consult their healthcare provider before using NyQuil or if cold and flu symptoms persist.

How can you differentiate between a common cold and a more serious illness? While it can be challenging to distinguish between a severe cold and a more serious condition, symptoms such as high fever, severe pain, or difficulty breathing are red flags that warrant medical evaluation. When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.

Proper Storage and Disposal of NyQuil

To ensure the safety and efficacy of NyQuil, proper storage and disposal are crucial:

Storage Guidelines

• Keep NyQuil at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Store out of reach of children and pets.
• Keep the container tightly closed when not in use.
• Do not use NyQuil after its expiration date.

Disposal Methods

• Check for local medication take-back programs in your area.
• If no take-back options are available, mix unused NyQuil with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds) and place in a sealed container before disposing in household trash.
• Remove or obscure personal information on the empty container before disposal.

Why is proper disposal of medications important? Proper disposal prevents accidental ingestion by children or pets, reduces the risk of drug misuse, and minimizes environmental contamination. It’s a simple yet crucial step in medication safety.

In conclusion, while NyQuil can be an effective tool in managing cold and flu symptoms, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects, especially those that may persist into the next day. By understanding these effects, taking appropriate precautions, and knowing when to seek medical attention, you can use NyQuil safely and effectively to find relief from cold and flu discomfort. Remember to always follow the recommended dosage, be mindful of potential interactions with other medications or alcohol, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions.

NyQuil Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Warnings:

One ingredient in this product is acetaminophen. Taking too much acetaminophen may cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Adults should not take more than 4000 milligrams (4 grams) of acetaminophen a day. People with liver problems and children should take less acetaminophen. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how much acetaminophen is safe to take.

Do not use with any other drug containing acetaminophen without asking your doctor or pharmacist first. Acetaminophen is in many nonprescription and prescription medications (such as pain/fever drugs or cough-and-cold products). Check the labels on all your medicines to see if they contain acetaminophen, and ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Get medical help right away if you take too much acetaminophen (overdose), even if you feel well. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, stomach/abdominal pain, extreme tiredness, yellowing eyes/skin, and dark urine.

Daily alcohol use, especially when combined with acetaminophen, may damage your liver. Avoid alcohol.

Warnings:

One ingredient in this product is acetaminophen. Taking too much acetaminophen may cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Adults should not take more than 4000 milligrams (4 grams) of acetaminophen a day. People with liver problems and children should take less acetaminophen. Ask your doctor or pharmacist how much acetaminophen is safe to take.

Do not use with any other drug containing acetaminophen without asking your doctor or pharmacist first. Acetaminophen is in many nonprescription and prescription medications (such as pain/fever drugs or cough-and-cold products). Check the labels on all your medicines to see if they contain acetaminophen, and ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Get medical help right away if you take too much acetaminophen (overdose), even if you feel well. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, stomach/abdominal pain, extreme tiredness, yellowing eyes/skin, and dark urine.

Daily alcohol use, especially when combined with acetaminophen, may damage your liver. Avoid alcohol.

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Uses

This combination medication is used to temporarily treat symptoms caused by the common cold, flu, allergies, or other breathing illnesses (such as sinusitis, bronchitis). Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that affects a certain part of the brain, reducing the urge to cough. Decongestants help relieve stuffy nose and ear congestion symptoms. Acetaminophen (APAP) is a non-aspirin pain reliever and fever reducer. Antihistamines help relieve watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing.This medication is not usually used for ongoing coughs from smoking, asthma, or other long-term breathing problems (such as emphysema), or for coughs with a lot of mucus, unless directed by your doctor.Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

How to use Nyquil Liquid

See also Warning section.

If you are taking the over-the-counter product, read and follow all directions on the package label. If your doctor has prescribed this medication for you, take as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, it may help to take this medication with food or milk. Drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. The fluid will help loosen the mucus in your lungs.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If your liquid form is a suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose.

If you are taking extended-release capsules, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew extended-release capsules or tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.

If you are taking the chewable form of this medication, chew it thoroughly before swallowing.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose, take it more often, or use it for a longer time than directed. Improper use of this medication (abuse) may result in serious harm (including brain damage, seizure, death).

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts for more than 1 week, if it gets worse, or if it occurs with a headache that doesn’t go away, rash, or fever lasting more than 3 days. These may be symptoms of a serious medical problem and should be checked by a doctor.

Side Effects

See also Warning section.

Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, upset stomach, nausea, nervousness, constipation, or dry mouth/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations), shaking, trouble urinating, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, seizure.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

See also Warning section.

Before taking this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of its ingredients; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication: breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema), diabetes, glaucoma, heart problems, high blood pressure, kidney problems, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems (such as blockage, constipation, ulcers), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), urination problems (such as trouble urinating due to enlarged prostate, urinary retention).

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Some brands of this product may contain sugar, alcohol, or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, liver disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, especially dizziness, drowsiness, mental/mood changes, constipation, trouble urinating, fast heartbeat, and blood pressure changes. Dizziness, drowsiness and confusion can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication may pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

See also Warning section.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Taking certain MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking isocarboxazid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, or tranylcypromine during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.

Some products that may interact with this drug are: antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray), ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, rolapitant.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).

The ingredients in this product are available in many prescription and nonprescription products. Check the labels on all your medicines (such as pain/fever drugs, diet aids, or cough-and-cold/allergy products) because they may contain the same or similar ingredients. Using these drugs along with this product could increase side effects (such as fast heartbeat, increased blood pressure, or drowsiness). Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (such as urine drug screening tests, urine 5-HIAA), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Nyquil Liquid interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, stomach/abdominal pain, extreme tiredness, agitation, confusion, flushing, hallucinations, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, seizures. In children, excitement may occur first, and may be followed by: loss of coordination, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, seizures.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Do not take this product for several days before allergy testing because test results can be affected.

If you are taking this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

NyQuil Addiction, Abuse, and Treatment

NyQuil is a common over-the-counter medication which treats the symptoms of the flu, the common cold, and other similar illnesses and allergies. It is manufactured and sold by Vicks, a U.S. medicine company. NyQuil provides temporary relief for coughing, headaches, stuffy and runny nose, sore throat, fever, and sneezing. It also helps people with cold symptoms sleep through the night. While it provides relief for cold symptoms, it is not a cure for the common cold or the flu. NyQuil is generally safe and effective for adults and children over the age of 6.

There are three active ingredients in NyQuil: acetaminophen, dextromethorphan (DXM), and doxylamine. Acetaminophen reduces fever and alleviates minor pain, dextromethorphan suppresses coughing, and doxylamine is an antihistamine (anti-allergy medication) which relieves congestion, sneezing, and sore throat. Doxylamine also helps people sleep, but it sometimes causes drowsiness during the day.

Vicks also manufactures and sells DayQuil, a similar medication for users who want to relieve cold symptoms without feeling drowsy during the workday. DayQuil alleviates the same symptoms as NyQuil. DayQuil contains acetaminophen and dextromethorphan, but it does not contain doxylamine. Instead, DayQuil contains phenylephrine, a non-drowsy nasal decongestant.

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What Are the Side-Effects and Risks of NyQuil?

The most common side-effects of NyQuil, if any occur, are minor and do not require medical attention. NyQuil is not dangerous if it used properly. The most likely side-effects are:

• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat

• Lightheadedness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Nervousness and excitability
• Stomach pain

It is important that people who use NyQuil follow the instructions on the bottle and avoid taking too much. Someone who regularly takes too much NyQuil could lose consciousness or suffer liver damage from the acetaminophen. Additionally, people should abstain from drinking alcohol while taking NyQuil and they should also avoid taking it together with an antidepressant or another medication which contains acetaminophen.

Moreover, it is possible for someone to have an allergic reaction to NyQuil. The symptoms of an allergic reaction to NyQuil include rash, hives, itchiness, difficulty with swallowing and breathing, and swelling in the face, throat, and mouth.

Is NyQuil Addictive?

A person who uses NyQuil correctly almost certainly will not become addicted, but someone who misuses NyQuil may develop dependence on the medication. Someone can misuse NyQuil by taking too much of it or by taking it for the wrong reasons, such as to treat asthma or chronic bronchitis, or for recreation. NyQuil is only designed to treat short-term symptoms, not cure long-term health problems. NyQuil is not a cure for insomnia and it should not be used just to fall asleep.

Once someone is unable to sleep without NyQuil, even when they’re not sick, they have become dependent on NyQuil. When a person starts to experience withdrawal symptoms when they put NyQuil back in the medicine cabinet, NyQuil dependence has escalated into NyQuil addiction. Physical withdrawal symptoms most often characterize addictions to alcohol, Opioids, and dangerous stimulants like Cocaine and Methamphetamine, but addictions to common medications can cause withdrawal symptoms as well. The symptoms of NyQuil withdrawal include:

• Insomnia
• Restlessness
• Stomach pain and nausea
• Shaking and tremors

When someone has a NyQuil addiction, the symptoms of withdrawal might prevent them from achieving recovery. Fortunately, people can manage withdrawal symptoms more easily with medical support, and someone with serious dependence on NyQuil or other drugs can escape the cycle of withdrawal and relapse by undergoing medically-supervised detox and therapy at a rehab facility.

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Understanding Dextromethorphan (DXM) Abuse

Some people, especially teenagers, take large doses of NyQuil to “get high.” This is because dextromethorphan (DXM), one of NyQuil’s three active ingredients, has mind-altering effects. DXM is an ingredient in over 70 medications. In small doses, DXM is just a cough suppressant which does not pose any risks for serious side effects. DXM is not even a controlled substance. However, DXM does affect the brain. For this reason, excessive amounts of DXM can bring about hallucinations and euphoria. In other words, its effects are similar to those of illegal mind-altering substances, but because medications with DXM are legal and don’t require a prescription, some people abuse DXM as an easier alternative to recreational drugs. In fact, over 3% of American 12th graders have abused NyQuil, DayQuil, and other DXM-based medications to try to have fun. Abusing DXM is often called “skittling” or “robo-tripping”

When someone misuses NyQuil for its DXM, the consequences can be serious. The effects of a large DXM dose are actually similar to the effects of PCP, an illegal and very hazardous hallucinogen. DXM impairs coordination and judgment, which makes driving after “robo-tripping” a perilous venture. Additionally, the combination of a large dose of DXM with acetaminophen, alcohol, or antidepressants may harm the liver and cause heart attacks, seizures, and in some cases, even death. “Robo-tripping” has killed several people in recent years. Finally, people who abuse NyQuil to “get high” on DXM are at risk for developing addiction, a potentially lifelong burden. In summary, drinking NyQuil to have a good time may be legal, but it is absolutely not safe.

Find Help Today

NyQuil is helpful when you’re feeling under the weather, but as with most medications, there are risks. If you or someone you know is using NyQuil to have DXM trips or to fall asleep every night, it’s time to get some help. Please contact a treatment provider today to learn more about the options available. With support, it is possible to recover from a destructive NyQuil habit.

How long can Nyquil stay in your system (and why)? –

Last updated: December 2, 2022 / author
Sandeep Bhandari

/ Fact verified / 4 minutes

Exact answer: up to 4.8 days

Nyquil is an over-the-counter medicine commonly sold to relieve flu and cold symptoms. It is often used to help relieve sore throat problems, allergies, and other similar health problems. The drug is produced by the trademark Vicks and was first put on the market in 1996 year.

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The chemical composition of the drug is based on a unique mixture of alcohol and various antihistamines. Nykil doses are often taken at bedtime as the drug is known to cause some degree of drowsiness. The composition of the drug is specially adjusted to combat insomnia in patients and induce sleep.

How long can Nyquil stay in the system

The duration of a dose of Nyquil in a patient’s body depends on the exact chemistry of the drug being administered. The time frame for calculating traces of a drug found in a patient’s body is based on the half-life of the chemicals used to make it.

Doxylamine succinate is one of the key ingredients used in all Nyquil formulations. It takes about 2.29 days to remove a chemical from the patent system. Doses of Niquel containing doxylamine succinate cause a certain degree of drowsiness in the patient. It is always advisable to take the dosage at bedtime. The dose of Niquel can remain in the patient’s body for up to 3 days.

Alternatively, there is a specific variety of Nyquil on the market that contains a different chemical component. Pseudoephedrine is a nasal decongestant that was previously added to all of Niquel’s formulations.

Pseudoephedrine has a longer half-life than doxylamine succinate. It takes almost 33 hours to remove the drug from the patient’s body. Thus, if a patient swallows Niquel with a pseudoephedrine component, then the drug is excreted from the human body longer. In such cases, it takes a total of 4.8 days after the last dose to clear Niquel from the body.

Several concomitant factors affect the duration of action of the drug. In the plasma of the elderly, traces of Nyquil can persist for up to 3.5 days, while in young people the drug is completely eliminated from the body by 2. 3 days. Similarly, those who suffer from poor metabolism problems will be off the drug within 4 days.

Summary:

Why does Nyquil stay in the system for so long?

If someone consumes Nyquil with doxylamine succinate, the chances of the drug being eliminated from the body increase. However, if the oral composition of Nykvila is based on pseudoephedrine, then traces of the drug can be expected to persist for several more days.

The ability of the body of different patients to metabolize various chemical components is as diverse as the personality of the same person. Some patients have a higher metabolic rate. In such cases, Niquel is more quickly absorbed by the body. Traces of the drug do not stay long in the plasma or urine of such a person.

However, those with metabolic problems may find it difficult to digest the chemicals in Nyquil. In such cases, if pseudoephedrine is the dominant ingredient of the type of Niquel administered, it takes much longer for the last molecule of the drug to be cleared from human plasma.

Similarly, the number and frequency of dosages also affect the time it takes for Niquel to be eliminated from the body. The patient’s systemic circulation will eliminate infrequent doses of Niquel faster than regular doses.

A person’s age and health also affect the increase or decrease in this average period of time for the drug to be eliminated from the body. However, it must always be remembered that the drowsiness caused by the drug definitely persists in most cases after its ingestion. The induced drowsiness will predominate the day after the first dose.

Conclusion

Nyquil is considered a miracle cure for seasonal coughs and colds. However, the dosage of the drug should always be adjusted depending on the body weight, age and comorbidities of the patient. As a rule, the drug is excreted from the patient’s body within 4.8 days.

Care must also be taken when checking the ingredients used in a particular Nyquil formulation. The drug is known to cause certain unwanted side effects, such as dry mouth, vomiting, fatigue, etc. If the side effects of the drug are too pronounced and prolonged, you should stop using it and seek medical advice.

Recommendations

1. https://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/ijshs_2014/3/
2. https://europepmc.org/article/med/12930012

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Side effects of antiepileptic therapy, consultation with an epileptologist in Nizhny Novgorod

Unfortunately, there are no absolutely safe medicines. Antiepileptic drugs, like all medicines, can cause side effects ranging from minimal discomfort to serious, life-threatening side effects. When prescribing drug treatment, an experienced doctor always makes sure that the side effects do not cause more maladjustment in the patient than the disease itself.

The goal of taking antiepileptic drugs is to reduce the frequency of seizures as much as possible with no or minimal side effects. There are ways, if not to avoid side effects, then at least to minimize the risk of their occurrence in each case.

Some side effects occur immediately after the start of treatment, others appear several weeks or even months after the start of regular use of the antiepileptic drug.

In some cases, side effects may require a reduction in the dose of the antiepileptic drug. In other cases, special treatment is required to reduce the severity of side effects, which will allow you to continue antiepileptic therapy without changing the antiepileptic drug or reducing its dose.

There are frequent situations when unwanted side effects disappear on their own, do not require special treatment and changes in the antiepileptic therapy regimen.

Finally, there may be situations in which the occurrence of side effects requires the immediate withdrawal of the antiepileptic drug that allegedly caused this side effect. Dangerous disorders requiring immediate discontinuation of antiepileptic therapy, such as allergic reactions, drug-induced hepatitis, agranulocytosis, occur more often in the first weeks from the start of treatment. Most of them are reactions of idiosyncrasy (individual intolerance to the drug), which the doctor cannot predict in advance.

Ways to minimize the risk of side effects from antiepileptic therapy

To reduce the likelihood of side effects, a detailed examination before treatment is necessary to identify a predisposition to side effects, strict adherence to the doctor’s recommendations, slowly increasing the dose of the drug and regular examination during therapy.

Before starting treatment, the doctor recommends that the patient undergo an examination that includes a number of laboratory parameters (general blood and urine tests, biochemical blood tests, coagulogram, etc.), ultrasound of the abdominal organs, an electrocardiogram, etc. The choice of additional studies depends on the appointment what antiepileptic drug is planned. Such an examination is required for the timely detection of diseases that could not have been previously diagnosed in a patient, but which may be aggravated while taking a certain antiepileptic drug. Next, the attending physician evaluates the identified violations and decides whether they are a contraindication to taking the selected antiepileptic drug, or only indicate that the treatment should be carried out with caution, under the control of certain indicators. This tactic allows the doctor to choose the safest drug for the patient.

Once the drug has been chosen, the patient can study the information about it in the package leaflet and on the Internet. Unfortunately, many patients, without special knowledge, misinterpret what they read. The biggest mistake is to take on all the side effects described in the instructions, as well as side effects that have occurred in other patients taking this drug and reflecting their negative experience on the Internet. Before making false conclusions and refusing the necessary treatment, be sure to discuss your doubts with your doctor!

A patient initiating antiepileptic therapy requires particularly careful monitoring.

The doctor may recommend that the patient have regular tests (eg, complete blood and urine tests, liver enzymes, liver ultrasound, blood levels of antiepileptic drugs) while taking an antiepileptic drug. This is required for the timely detection of side effects that are not always clinically manifested (that is, do not lead to any complaints in the patient), but may be significant and require correction of the antiepileptic therapy regimen.

The patient and his relatives are also advised to note any changes in their state of health, and if warning symptoms appear (nausea, vomiting, rash, drowsiness, decreased vision, changes in behavior, mood, etc.), immediately report what is happening to the attending physician. The doctor will invite the patient to an appointment to understand the situation and take adequate measures.

For completeness of information, it is recommended that a patient taking antiepileptic drugs keep a diary in which the frequency, nature of seizures, trade names and doses of drugs taken, as well as any adverse events that occur during treatment, should be noted. This information, accumulated over the entire period of epilepsy treatment, will be required by the epileptologist if it is necessary to correct treatment in the future.