Pharmaceutical Name

Trade (marketing or proprietary) name: NyQuil

Generic (nonproprietary or active ingredient) name: Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Doxylamine succinate

Indication and Usage

Reason the product has been approved for sale on the market.

This over-the-counter medication is intended to temporarily relieve common cold/flu symptoms. Most OTC drugs are not reviewed and approved by FDA, however they may be marketed if they comply with applicable regulations and policies. FDA has not evaluated whether this product complies.

Manufacturer Insert

Ingredients

Acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, doxylamine, alcohol, citric acid, D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Blue No.1, flavor, glycerin, propylene glycol, purified water, saccharin sodium, sodium benzoate, sodium citrate, sorbitol, and sucralose.

Manufacturer-Listed Adverse Reactions

Per the CDC, adverse reactions are an undesirable medical condition that has been demonstrated to be caused by a vaccine. Evidence for the causal relation is usually obtained through randomized clinical trials, controlled epidemiologic studies, isolation of the vaccine strain from the pathogenic site, or recurrence of the condition with repeated vaccination (i.e., rechallenge); synonyms include side effect and adverse effect.

The label for Nyquil lists severe liver damage and severe skin reactions including skin reddening, blisters, and rash as potential adverse reactions. The NIH lists the following potential reactions for the active ingredients in NyQuil:

Acetaminophen can cause: Red, peeling or blistering skin, Rash, Difficulty breathing or swallowing, Hives, Itching, Hoarseness, and Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs.

Dextromethorphan can cause: Dizziness, Lightheadedness, Drowsiness, Restlessness, Nausea, Vomiting, Stomach pain, Nervousness, Restlessness, and Rash.

Doxylamine can cause: Dry mouth, nose, and throat, Drowsiness, Nausea, Increased chest congestion, Headache, Excitement, Vision problems, Difficulty urinating, and Nervousness.

Some NyQuil products contain phenylephrine which can cause: nervousness, dizziness, and sleepiness.

Analytical Deep Dive

What is informed consent?

Alternatives

Looking for Nyquil alternatives? Here are some products to research:

For alternatives to NyQuil, see the recommended alternative products for Influenza, Tylenol, as well as the immunity products under the First Trimester section and the medicine cabinet products in the Postpartum for Baby section of the Motherhood Guide.

Pain FAQ

Do you struggle with pain and were recommended medications? Click the image above for prevention and treatment protocols + products to research for educated and empowered medical decisions.

Cough FAQ

Do you struggle with coughing and were recommended medications? Click the image for prevention and treatment protocols + products to research for educated and empowered medical decisions.