The Complete Guide: How to Use NyQuil
It is well-known that NyQuil is often used in the wrong way, as many people have reported getting bad side effects from this popular medication in the last few years. Therefore, we decided to create this useful guide that will help you understand what NyQuil is and how to properly use it.
Why do people use NyQuil?
Nyquil is easily accessible at your nearest pharmacy. It can provide relief for the following symptoms:
- Headaches
- Stuffy and runny nose
- Sore Throat
- Coughing
- Fever
- Sneezing
When was NyQuil invented?
NyQuil was created in 1966 and trademarked by Richardson-Vicks (RVI). The goal was to offer an easy-to-use medication that was strong enough to fight the cold and flew, without being too intense for people globally. A risky bet from the company, but things turned out pretty well since NyQuil is now one of the most used OTC (over-the-counter) medications in the world.
Can I use NyQuil to help me sleep?
Through the years, many people started to use NyQuil as a sleeping aid, which is not advised by the manufacturer nor any doctor. Now, you may be wondering why NyQuil is often used in such a way? The main reason resides in the formula of NyQuil. Indeed, one of the formula’s active ingredients is Doxylamine, which will cause sleepiness in most people, especially if you are a skinny person.
On a side note, if you are sick and you think that you are going to have a hard time sleeping, you should take NyQuil a few hours before going to bed. That way, you will avoid any risk of having bad side effects from the medication. This is very important since NyQuil could completely disrupt your sleep pattern and metabolism.
What are the side effects of NyQuil?
As we just mentioned, NyQuil can also have a bad effect on your body if not taken properly. That’s right, Nyquil can have a number of side effects, such as:
- Disrupted sleeping pattern
- Moments of anxiety
- Breathing problems
- Drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth, throat, or nose
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- A sudden burst of energy in children
It is true that such a list of side effects can be pretty scary at first, but remember that these are pretty rare and that NyQuil is a soft medication. That said, if you have allergies, if you have a condition, or if you are going through a trauma, we strongly recommend consulting a doctor or a specialist before taking anything.
How long does it take for NyQuil to be effective?
As a general rule of thumb, it shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes before this type of medicine starts doing its thing into your system. Once the effects start to kick in, you will feel relaxed, and perhaps a bit sleepy. Aside from that, the painful symptoms of a cold should gradually fade away and give you the moment of relief that you were looking for.
For how long does NyQuil last?
Depending on your age and your body, the effects of NyQuil can last anywhere from 3 to 8 hours. Traces of medicine will usually stay in your body for up to 3 days. Just make sure that you drink a lot of water and eat healthy in the next couple of days following your last NyQuil intake.
Is it possible to become addicted to NyQuil?
Yes, as with any other drugs, if you take Nyquil on a regular basis, your body will start to develop a tolerance to it. Also, you will be more at risk of getting bad side effects, thus why we suggest you limit the dosage to what your doctor prescribed or to the instruction that comes with the pills/capsules.
What are the ingredients of NyQuil?
Are you wondering what are the main ingredients in NyQuil? If so, know that there are 3 main ingredients:
- Acetaminophen
Reduces fever and pain. - Dextromethorphan
Stops coughing. - Doxylamine
Will stop sneezing, sore throats, and nasal congestion. Moreover, it can also help with some types of allergies and help you sleep better at night if the dosage is respected.
There are a couple of other ingredients that can vary from one NyQuil product to the next. As a matter of fact, you have many NyQuil packages, such as Children NyQuil which has lower quantities of the main ingredients.
Can you be allergic to NyQuil?
A strong and direct allergy to NyQuil is pretty uncommon and is used by millions of people every year. That said if you feel dizziness, itching/swelling, or that you are having a hard time breathing after taking NyQuil, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
And that concludes our guide on NyQuil and its side effects. Hopefully, you won’t misuse this drug, since it is totally not a sleeping aid. As with any medication, it is important to follow the instructions given by your doctor or the pharmacist.