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Dayquil vs. Phenylephrine

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

Phenylephrine eye drops are used to dilate (widen) pupils for eye exams or certain eye procedures. Side effects include temporary burning or stinging in the eye, blurry vision, and possibly raise your blood pressure. Let your provider know if your pregnant or breastfeeding because you might need to use a different medication.

• Dilate (widen) pupils

• Temporary stinging or burning in your eye
• Temporary blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light

• For use in the eyes only
• Heart problems
• High blood pressure
• Rebound pupil constriction