Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Vicks NyQuil D, Vicks NyQuil
- Cough/Cold, Non-narcotic Combos
Description
Acetaminophen: Blocks pain impulse generation peripherally & may inhibit the generation of prostaglandin in the CNS; reduces fever by inhibiting the hypothalamic heat-regulating center
Dextromethorphan: Cough suppressant that acts centrally on cough center in medulla
Doxylamine: Competitively blocks histamine from binding to H1 receptors; significant antimuscarinic activity and penetrates CNS, which causes pronounced tendency to induce sedation
Pseudoephedrine: Stimulates the alpha-adrenergic receptors causing bronchodilation & vasoconstriction
Indications
Indicated in Nasal Congestion, Rhinorrhea, Sore Throat, Cough, Fever, Headache
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to any of the drugs
Narrow-angle glaucoma
<2 years of age
Use of MAO inhibitors within 14 days
Stenosing peptic ulcer
Severe hepatic impairment
Adverse Effects
Arrhythmia
Palpitations
Convulsion
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Excitability
Tremor
Weakness
Dermatologic rash
GI disturbances
Anemia blood dyscrasias (neutropenia, pancytopenia, leukopenia)
Bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase may increase
Dry mouth, throat, and nose
Thickening of mucus in nose or throat
Warnings
Severe or recurrent pain or high or continued fever may indicate a serious illness
Severe or recurrent pain or high or continued fever may indicate a serious illness
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lacation: excreted in breast milk, use caution
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of health professional before using OTC drugs
Maximum Dosage
30 mL PO q6-8hr; not to exceed 4 doses/day
Pediatric
<12 years old: Ask a pediatrician
>12 years old: 30 mL PO q6-8hr; not to exceed 4 doses/day