DayQuil is typically used in treating coughs, general body aches, running noses, and other symptoms caused by common colds or other respiratory conditions, such as sore throats or fever.
Quick Facts About Dayquil
DayQuil, as the name suggests, is intended for use during the daytime. NyQuil, which has properties similar to DayQuil, must be taken at night. Due to the presence of drowsy and sleep-inducing ingredients like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and others, NyQuil must only be taken at night. This is why they are known as NyQuils.
In this article, we will explore the details on usage for Dayquil and whether or not it is safe to take at night.
What Is DayQuil?
DayQuil is an over-the-counter medication that is used to relieve symptoms of the common cold and flu such as headache, nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, fever, minor pains, and cough.
The active ingredients in DayQuil are acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine hydrochloride. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer, Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant and phenylephrine hydrochloride is a nasal decongestant. These ingredient doesn't cause drowsiness when taken.
DayQuil is available in liquid, capsule, and tablet form and it can be bought without a doctor's description.
Can You Take DayQuil At Night?
The answer is Yes, you can take DayQuil at night as there's absolutely no harm associated. NyQuil's ability to put you to sleep quickly comes from its two active ingredients, diphenhydramine and Benadryl, which both induce drowsiness and can ultimately aid in people falling asleep quickly. This is the only reason a doctor might recommend NyQuil for just one night. So basically, the only difference between DayQuil and NyQuil is that NyQuil contains Benadryl and diphenhydramine, while DayQuil does not.
Despite the fact that Benadryl makes people drowsy and can eventually help them fall asleep, numerous studies have shown that the quality of the sleep isn't nearly as good because it somehow prevents REM sleep, which has the most restorative effects while we sleep. Because of this, we occasionally feel extremely sleepy after taking Benadryl. The effects of taking Benadryl, however, are not felt by everyone. Since DayQuil accomplishes all of its goals besides helping you sleep, it might even be preferred.
Remember that DayQuil and NyQuil are only intended for adult use whether you choose to use one of them. You should speak with your doctor about these medications because they may interact with other medications you are taking or cause you to experience other side effects depending on your personal health conditions.
What Happens When You Take DayQuil at Night?
DayQuil does not contain any stimulants, so you won't feel sleepy after taking it at night. NyQuil, on the other hand, does contain a sedative ingredient, which will make you feel sleepy after taking it.
In instances, when you frequently have trouble falling asleep, DayQuil won't necessarily make it easier for you to do so; instead, it will only make your cold and flu symptoms go away. You'll be able to fall asleep on your own once your symptoms have been alleviated.
Does DayQuil Prevent You from Sleeping?
The short answer is no, it does not. DayQuil is used to relieve symptoms of the common cold and flu including fever, sore throat, headache, minor aches and pains, and cough. It does not contain a sleep stimulant. It active ingredient are Acetaminophen (pain reliever and fever reducer), Dextromethorphan (cough suppressant) and phenylephrine hydrochloride (nasal decongestant).
If your cold or flu symptoms are keeping you up at night, try taking DayQuil earlier in the day so it has time to work its way out of your system before bedtime.
What Happens When You Use DayQuil in the Morning?
When you use DayQuil in the morning, it helps to relieve your cold and flu symptoms so you can feel more comfortable and get on with your day.
DayQuil will treat the symptoms if taken as directed in terms of dosage and intake. After taking DayQuil as directed during the day, your cold or flu symptoms will go away.
However, it is always important to read the label carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any questions.
Proper Dosage of DayQuil
If you're wondering whether it's okay to take DayQuil at night, the answer is yes, but with a few caveats. First, be sure to follow the directions on the packaging and take only the recommended dosage. Taking too much DayQuil can lead to side effects like dizziness, headache, and upset stomach etc.
The dosage of DayQuil depends solely on the age of the patient.
- For adults, take 1 gel cap every 6 hours; do not take more than 4 doses in a 24-hour period.
- For the syrup, give adults and children over the age of 12, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) every four hours.
- For the syrup, the recommended dose is one tablespoon (15 ml) every four hours, not to exceed four doses in a 24-hour period.
- DayQuil should not be used by anyone under the age of 6. Before taking the medication, speak with your doctor.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of DayQuil?
The most common side effects of DayQuil are headache, nausea, hallucinations, chest pain, uneven heart rate, nausea , jaundice, severe dizziness, severe headache, convulsions or seizures, stomach pains, restlessness, insomnia etc. These side effects can be caused by the active ingredients in DayQuil, including acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine. If you experience any of these side effects after taking DayQuil at night or during the day, stop the medication immediately and call your doctor or visit the hospital.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you can take Dayquil at night if you need relief from your symptoms. However, it is always best to follow the directions on the packaging and talk to your doctor before taking any medication. Taking Dayquil at night may help you get the rest you need so that you can feel better in the morning.
