DayQuil is a medication intended to ease symptoms of cold and seasonal flu. Now, many people ask us this question. Does DayQuil Keep You Awake?
We understand that for someone who’s sick, getting enough sleep is vital. And so, let’s finally break the silence about this topic.
Effects of DayQuil on Your Sleep
Let’s drop the truth bomb right away, shall we? DayQuil will not keep you awake simply because it doesn’t contain stimulants. Yet, it will also not make you feel drowsy. What could make you sleepy is NyQuil because that contains doxylamine. Such can make you feel drowsy when you have flu or colds.
Can I Take DayQuil at Night?
This is another common question we receive, and the answer is – YES! While it doesn’t have the drowsy effect, it doesn’t mean that it could hinder your sleeping habits. Likewise, it is not recommended that you take DayQuil if you wish to stay up. That will not work as well. Why, you may ask?
Now, here’s the answer.
Most cold and flu medications have caffeine in it. So it’s logical if other people also ask, does DayQuil have caffeine in it too? The answer for this is no. DayQuil lacks stimulating ingredients that could help you stay awake. This should set the record straight.
Tips for Sleeping After Taking DayQuil
As we’ve mentioned, quality sleep is important, most especially if you are feeling ill. Such will help your body recover faster. However, we understand that it could be a challenge to fall asleep when you suffer from a cold and flu. So what are the techniques one should do?
Gargle With Water and Salt
Your parents and grandparents are probably still doing it. It’s not surprising because this technique works, and has been a remedy for centuries.
First, you just need to make lukewarm saline water. It might seem too technical, but it’s just one cup of water and a quarter of table salt. From there, gargle the solution and experience instant relief. This should help in stopping the development of bacteria.
Use Steam Before Going to Bed
Steaming is also helpful for people with cold and flu. This can decongest your upper respiratory tract and loosen nasal congestion. If you have a sore throat, this could be a good remedy as well. Some people add eucalyptus oil to the water to make it more effective.
A word of caution though. You must inhale slowly or gently. If you do it abruptly, that can result in discomfort.
Invest in a Good Humidifier
If you have a humidifier, that’s good. You must use this as it helps in giving more moisture in the air. And because of this, it’s easier for you to breathe. But, you have to ensure that your product is perfect for the size of your room. Having said that, you need to check the label thoroughly. Also, do not forget to clean it so it will be free from dirt and germs.
If you haven’t bought one for your home, here’s a good product.
GENIANI Top Fill Cool Mist Humidifiers for Bedroom
This is a 2-in-1 humidifier and diffuser. With this, you can fill your room with an amazing scent that can also put you into a good sleep. It is also a smart humidifier as it could automatically adjust the humidity. At least you do not have to figure it out on your own, and you can just focus on getting a good rest. It’s also quiet, unlike other humidifiers in the market. In fact, it’s even perfect for babies.
Sleep Aids That Are Safe with DayQuil
Now, if you are having a hard time sleeping, you might want to try melatonin or valerian root supplements. There are no reported cases that these reacted negatively with the medications. But before you take these, verify with your doctor first.
Can You Take it During the Day?
Since the medication will not interfere with your sleep, it is fine to take it during the day. It will not hinder you from doing your daily routine. However, as you are already sick, it is best to stay at home and recover first.
Recommended Dose of DayQuil
The dose varies and has several factors. It includes the age of the patient, current health condition, and even the form of medicine. Let’s have a quick sample below. Take note that it is just a sample, but you need to seek your doctor’s advice on the dosage.
You can take two capsules every four hours. Remember that a patient shouldn’t consume more than four pills in a day or 24 hours. As for the liquid form, you may consume up to 30 ml every four hours. But you shouldn’t exceed four doses in a span of 24 hours.
Do not give this medication to children under six years old unless told by your pediatrician.
Side Effects of DayQuil
You must watch out for both the minor and major side effects of the medication. Here are some of the common ones:
- upset stomach
- nausea
- anxiousness
- drowsiness
- lightheadedness
- dizziness
- vomiting
The above symptoms are not reasons to panic. However, the succeeding symptoms are more alarming, and you should go to your doctor right away.
- allergic reaction
- difficulty in breathing
- difficulty swallowing
- skin rash
- hives
- intense itchiness
- blistered skin
- swelling of tongue
Warning
You should never drink alcoholic beverages when you are taking DayQuil. Studies are stating that the combination of these two can result in liver damage. And if you are under other medications, you should seek your doctor’s approval first as they might recommend other medicines for your flu.
Let’s learn more from this video about DayQuil.
Conclusion
Does DayQuil Keep You Awake?
Again, the answer is no. On the other hand, NyQuil has an antihistamine that can make you feel drowsy. We cannot emphasize enough the importance of having professional advice if you should take these.
Remember, you might have a condition that requires special prescriptions. As a rule of thumb, never self-medicate. Doing so can be extremely dangerous, and you could put yourself in further harm.
