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Dayquil vs. Sudafed

Dayquil Cold and Flu is a combination of three active ingredients: acetaminophen (an analgesic), dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), and phenylephrine (a decongestant). Dayquil Cold and Flu helps treat symptoms from the common cold and flu in adults and children. It can relieve stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, headache, aches, and fever. Besides Dayquil Cold and Flu, this medication is available under many other brand names and as a generic. It's available as pills and a liquid that's typically taken every 4 hours. Side effects aren't common but can include stomach upset and nervousness.

• Short-term relief of symptoms from the common cold and flu:
  • Minor aches and pains
  • Headache
  • Stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Fever

• Stomach upset
• Nervousness or anxiety

• Liver damage
• Allergic skin reactions
• Serotonin syndrome
• Accidentally taking too much medication
• Worsening of certain medical conditions

Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is a non-drowsy decongestant taken by mouth to treat nasal and sinus congestion from allergies and the common cold. It's available in a short-acting version that's taken once every 4 to 6 hours. It also comes in longer-acting versions that are taken every 12 or 24 hours, depending on the dose. Side effects of Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) include anxiety and headache. This medication might also keep you awake at night if you take it too close to bedtime. Sudafed (pseudoephedrine) is an OTC medication, but it's restricted, so you can only purchase it at the pharmacy counter.

• Short-term relief of nasal and sinus congestion and pressure

• Sweating
• Nervousness
• Excitability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Low appetite
• Difficulty urinating

• Fast heart rate and high blood pressure
• Worsening of medical conditions
• Accidental overdose