Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Acetaminophen/phenylephrine (Sudafed PE Pressure Plus Pain) and acetaminophen/dextromethorphan/phenylephrine (Dayquil Cold and Flu) are both over-the-counter medications used to relieve symptoms of the common cold, such as nasal congestion, headache, and minor aches and pains. They both contain acetaminophen, which helps relieve pain and reduce fever, and phenylephrine, which acts as a decongestant. However, Dayquil Cold and Flu also includes dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant, which is not in Sudafed PE Pressure Plus Pain. Sudafed PE Pressure Plus Pain is available as caplets, while Dayquil Cold and Flu comes in both pill and liquid forms. Both medications are taken every 4 hours, but Dayquil Cold and Flu has a maximum of 8 doses per 24-hour period, while Sudafed PE Pressure Plus Pain allows up to 10 caplets. Both medications may cause nervousness. Both medications contain acetaminophen, so be careful not to take other over-the-counter products that also contain acetaminophen. Taking too acetaminophen can harm your liver.
Mucinex Sinus Max is a combination medication that contains acetaminophen (a pain reliever), guaifenesin (an expectorant), and phenylephrine (a decongestant). It's used for allergy and common cold symptoms in adults and children ages 12 years and older. Mucinex Sinus Max is typically taken by mouth every 4 hours. Side effects aren't common, but generally include upset stomach and dizziness. This medication is available over the counter as tablets and a liquid, and also under other brand names, including Tylenol Sinus Severe.
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 allergies and the common cold:
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