How Often Can You Take NyQuil?

Answer

NyQuil can be taken every four to six hours, with a maximum of four doses per 24 hours. So, if you took NyQuil to help you fall asleep, and you wake up later in the evening, you can take another dose as long as it has been at least 4 hours since your last dose.

In regard to being able to take NyQuil long-term, the drugs contained in it (acetaminophen; dextromethorphan; doxylamine) are not known to cause any sort of addiction or dependence.

Having said that, if you find yourself needing to take NyQuil to help you sleep or treat your symptoms on a consistent basis, you'll want to talk to your doctor so you can be evaluated. NyQuil is not intended to be used long-term, and if your symptoms are lasting longer than a week or so, there could be other issues going on.

NyQuil Information

There are several different NyQuil products on the market, including:

• NyQuil Cold & Flu
• NyQuil Cold & Flu Severe
• NyQuil VapoCOOL
• NyQuil Cough + Congestion
• NyQuil HBP

The 'original' NyQuil, as stated above, contains three ingredients:

• Acetaminophen - Pain Reliever
• Dextromethorphan - Cough Suppressant
• Doxylamine - Sedating Antihistamine

NyQuil 'Severe' add phenylephrine, a nasal decongestant.

All of the drugs in NyQuil have a duration of action of around four to six hours per dose. NyQuil can be taken every four to six hours, with no more than 4 doses per 24 hours, as recommended on the product labeling:

It is important to remember that NyQuil is only intended to be used temporarily to help treat mild cold and flu symptoms.

While the drugs in NyQuil won't cause dependence, you really shouldn't use it for more than a week or so. Needing it for longer is certainly an indication that you should see your doctor to be evaluated to get to the bottom of what is causing your symptoms. NyQuil is only for symptom relief and won't treat or cure any underlying issues.

Final Words

I hope you found this helpful! Reach back out anytime.