How Long To Wait In-Between Doses Of NyQuil?
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses how long you need to wait in-between doses of NyQuil.
How long do you have to wait in-between doses of NyQuil?
Aug 18, 2022- You should wait at least 6 hours between NyQuil doses.
- NyQuil should not be taken more than 4 times in a 24-hour period.
- Do not take another dose if you still feel the drowsy effects from your last dose.
Answer
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NyQuil is a combination ingredient product that is used to treat the symptoms of colds and the flu. How long the effects of NyQuil last varies by individual but generally last around four to six hours per dose.
Per the manufacturing labeling for NyQuil, it is important not to exceed 4 doses in a 24-hour period. Based on the duration of action of NyQuil, each dose should be separated by at least 6 hours.
Time To Wait Between NyQuil Doses
NyQuil contains the following ingredients:
- Acetaminophen 650 mg (Pain reliever/fever reducer)
- Dextromethorphan HBr 30 mg (Cough suppressant)
- Doxylamine succinate 12.5 mg (Antihistamine)
Each ingredient in NyQuil has a duration of action of around 4 to 6 hours, although the sedative effects (which come from the sedating antihistamine doxylamine) have been known to last up to 8 hours in certain individuals. It is important to not take an additional dose of NyQuil if you are still feeling the sedating effects of the product.
However, if the effects of your last dose of NyQuil have worn off, you are safe to take another dose as long as 6 hours have passed since your last dose. Waiting 6 hours between doses will ensure that you do not take more than the recommended maximum of 4 daily doses.
Final Words
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References & sources
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Acetaminophen
- A common pain reliever and fever reducer medication.
- Dextromethorphan HBr
- A cough suppressant ingredient that helps reduce coughing.
- Doxylamine succinate
- An antihistamine ingredient that also causes drowsiness as a side effect.
- Antihistamine
- A type of medication that blocks histamine in the body to reduce allergy symptoms and often causes sleepiness.
- Duration of action
- The length of time that a medication remains active and effective in your body.
- Sedative effects
- The calming or sleep-inducing effects of a medication.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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