Nyquil: Abuse, Side Effects & Addiction

NyQuil is an over-the-counter medication used to treat symptoms of the flu, cold, and allergies. It contains acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and doxylamine. While it is generally safe and effective when used properly, misusing NyQuil can lead to dependence and addiction. Side effects may include blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, and nausea. Misusing NyQuil to get high on dextromethorphan can have serious consequences and is not safe.

Does NyQuil Make You Sweat?

NyQuil contains several active ingredients, such as Dextromethorphan HBr, Doxylamine Succinate, and Acetaminophen. These components work together to relieve symptoms of cold and flu, such as coughing, congestion, and fever.

1. Dextromethorphan HBr acts as a cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex.
2. Doxylamine Succinate is an antihistamine that helps relieve symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose by blocking histamine in the body.
3. Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer.

Sweating can be a side effect of the body’s effort to reduce fever, one of the symptoms NyQuil is formulated to treat. When acetaminophen lowers the body’s temperature, it might do so by promoting heat loss through the skin, which can include sweating. Additionally, any medication that affects the central nervous system, like dextromethorphan, has the potential to cause various side effects, including changes in body temperature regulation, which could indirectly lead to sweating.

Side Effects and Abuse of Nyquil

The most common side effects include:

1. Stomach pain.
2. Blurred vision.
3. Vomiting.
4. Nausea.
5. Dry mouth.
6. Drowsiness.

If you are using NyQuil, you should always follow instructions and prescriptions from your doctor. Taking too much can lead to severe side effects. By using acetaminophen, you can damage your liver. You may also lose consciousness when you consume excessive amounts of it regularly. It can also trigger allergic reactions that pop up suddenly and include itching, difficulty in swallowing, hives, and swelling. If you think that your usage has led to an addiction and you cannot quit the habit of consuming it, join our rehab program.

Need Addiction Treatment? Hear From OUR PAST PATIENTS:

What are the Nyquil Withdrawal Symptoms?

If you exceed the recommended dose or use it with alcohol for more than two to three weeks daily, you will experience withdrawal symptoms when you quit using this drug. Here are some signs of NyQuil withdrawal:

• Diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.
• Abdominal pain.
• Insomnia.
• Agitation, anxiety, and restlessness.
• Cravings for medication that contains similar ingredients.
• Gray mood, depression, or suicidal ideation.

Dextromethorphan causes symptoms like a stimulant, such as increased heartbeat, hallucinations, sweating, distorted perceptions, and hyperactivity. This ingredient was officially developed by the U.S. Navy and CIA to help people with codeine addiction. FDA approved the use of DXM 50 years ago in over-the-counter medication as a cough suppressant.

Why Does Nyquil Make you Sleepy?

The reason why NyQuil is so addictive is that it contains ingredients that develop a need for this drug.

Nyquil ingredients include:

1.    Dextromethorphan HBr

This ingredient acts as a cough suppressant. If you take Nyquil more than 12 times the recommended dosage, it will affect your hearing and sight. You will develop a feeling of dissociation, detachment from yourself, and the environment. Low doses of DXM can also induce a NyQuil high that give you psychedelic trips if your body is unusually slow in metabolizing it.

The presence of DXM temporarily relieves coughing by suppressing activity in the medulla oblongata region of your brain. Medulla oblongata helps in controlling reflex activates such as coughing, vomiting, sneezing, and swallowing.

2.    Doxylamine Succinate

This sleeping aid gives you a relaxed and drowsy feeling. This ingredient is officially listed as an antihistamine.

3.    Citric Acid

Citric Acid is a useful flu killer, but only when you spray it in your nose. As you need to swallow NyQuil instead of inhaling, the presence of citric acid is too much for your body.

4.    Propylene Glycol and Polyethylene Glycol

These chemical cousins are used as thickeners. The consistency is somewhere between honey and water, but it does not look like that naturally. Drug marketers know that most people prefer syrup as their medication.

5.    Sodium Citrate

To maintain the acid-base concentration and balance between the ingredients, they add sodium citrate. Sodium citrate is also an anticoagulant, which helps in buffering.

6.    Flavor

This isn’t suggested by P&G, but due to NyQuil’s taste, we are sure that it includes flavor. You can swallow one or two tablespoons but cannot drink it.

7.    High Fructose Corn Syrup

One or two spoons of sugar help users in swallowing it.

Does NyQuil Include Alcohol?

NyQuil liquid contains 10% alcohol. This drug is the only medicine containing alcohol. In the form of gel capsules, this does not include alcohol. There is a low risk of intoxication for this liquid. However, if you try to take high quantities to get intoxicated, you will overdose from various other components. The reaction is very quick, and you may suffer from fatal effects before any treatment. If you are using it for a long time daily, it can cause severe addiction. You can recover by joining our rehabilitation program.

NyQuil Addiction

Misuse is not common, but it happens to a lot of people. There is a probability that some people develop a tolerance for this drug. No matter if you are using it for the right reason or not, this medication should be for short-term use only. Some people use this as a sleep aid due to its relieving and relaxing qualities; some use this drug for asthma, which is not made for, while others use it because they like the feeling it gives. Using NyQuil for these reasons is dangerous, and you should avoid doing so. Here are some properties of NyQuil addiction:

• This drug contains alcohol.
• You may feel hallucinogenic, which is also the side effect of PCP and ketamine.
• You may also suffer from seizures, hallucinations, and respiratory disorders.

Using NyQuil Excessively

Some people cannot tolerate using NyQuil for so long, but others may feel relaxed and help while sleeping. But this will gradually convert into addiction and become a gateway to other drugs and substances, such as alcohol. On using both drugs, you can raise the risk of serious health conditions, including death. Your liver will also be at risk when taking high doses of it for long periods. However, there is always help; you can join our rehab center for recovery.

How Does NyQuil Make You Sleepy?

NyQuil is a popular over-the-counter medication known for its effectiveness in relieving common cold and flu symptoms such as coughing, congestion, and runny nose. It is available in various formulations, but many NyQuil products contain a combination of ingredients, including antihistamines like doxylamine succinate, which is known for its sedative effects and why it makes you sleepy.

Here’s how NyQuil can affect your sleepiness:

1. Induces Drowsiness: NyQuil’s sedative component, doxylamine succinate, is designed to help you get restful sleep when you’re feeling under the weather. This ingredient can indeed make you feel drowsy, which is often desirable when you’re looking to alleviate cold or flu symptoms and get some much-needed rest.
2. Promotes Sleep: For individuals who struggle with sleep disturbances due to cold or flu symptoms, NyQuil can be beneficial. It can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy a more peaceful night’s rest, allowing your body to recover from illness.
3. Duration of Sleepiness: It’s important to note that the drowsiness induced by NyQuil is typically intended to last through the night. However, this effect can vary from person to person. Some individuals might still feel somewhat drowsy the next morning, especially if they haven’t had a full night’s sleep.
4. Cautions and Recommendations: While NyQuil’s sleep-inducing properties can be advantageous when you’re unwell, it’s crucial to use the medication as directed. Avoid using NyQuil when you need to be alert or operate heavy machinery. Additionally, if you have a history of sensitivity to sedatives or experience excessive sleepiness, consult with a healthcare professional before using NyQuil.

NyQuil does indeed have the potential to make you feel sleepy due to the sedative properties of ingredients like doxylamine succinate. This can be helpful when you’re dealing with cold or flu symptoms and need a good night’s sleep to aid in your recovery. However, it’s important to use NyQuil responsibly and follow the recommended dosage to avoid excessive drowsiness or other adverse effects. If you have concerns about how NyQuil may affect your sleep, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Strategies for Managing Cold and Flu Symptoms Without Relying on NyQuil

Managing cold and flu symptoms without resorting to NyQuil is crucial for individuals in recovery or those cautious about medication dependency. Natural remedies and lifestyle adjustments can be effective alternatives for symptom relief. Staying hydrated is essential, as fluids help thin mucus and provide relief from congestion and coughing. Herbal teas, especially those with ginger, honey, or lemon, can soothe sore throats and boost the immune system. Adequate rest is another cornerstone of recovery, allowing the body to fight off infection more effectively. Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, easing congestion and coughing. For those looking for non-medication-based relief, steam inhalation or warm showers can also help clear nasal passages, while throat lozenges or gargling with salt water can alleviate throat pain.

Moreover, it’s important to consult healthcare professionals before trying alternative remedies, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions or those in recovery. Professionals can recommend safe, non-addictive medication alternatives that don’t compromise sobriety or lead to dependency. Vitamin and mineral supplements, such as Vitamin C, D, and zinc, might also be suggested to support the immune system during cold and flu season. Emphasizing a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can further enhance immune response and aid in a quicker recovery. By exploring these alternatives, individuals can manage their symptoms effectively without relying on NyQuil or similar over-the-counter medications.

Consequences of Overdosing on NyQuil

Similar to any drug, an overdose of NyQuil can have severe consequences. If your body is used to this drug, you may also feel withdrawal symptoms while quitting. These symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, chills, depression, and anxiety. These symptoms will interfere with a healthy recovery, and you will feel hopeless. You can get help by calling our addiction specialists.

Severe Symptoms of Addiction

The symptoms of NyQuil withdrawal are not life-threatening, and you can resolve them with professional treatment. However, if you are taking it along with marijuana or alcohol for a long time, you will face severe withdrawal symptoms. To overcome such severe consequences, you need to join a rehab center for treatment. If you are looking for help, visit our rehabilitation center.

Understanding the Psychological Aspect of Over-the-Counter Medication Addiction

The misuse of over-the-counter (OTC) medications like NyQuil often stems from underlying psychological factors that extend beyond the physical symptoms these drugs are intended to treat. Many individuals turn to OTC drugs as a form of self-medication to cope with issues such as insomnia, stress, anxiety, or depression. This behavior reflects a broader issue where the ease of access and perceived safety of these medications obscure the real risks of dependency and addiction. According to WebMD, teens are the most likely to abuse cough medicines like NyQuil because the medicine is easy to get and doesn’t require a prescription. Psychological dependence on NyQuil can develop as users begin to associate relief and relaxation exclusively with its consumption, creating a cycle that’s hard to break without understanding the emotional and mental triggers involved.

Addressing the psychological aspect of OTC medication addiction requires a multifaceted approach, including professional counseling and therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective in helping individuals recognize and modify the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their misuse of medications. Support groups, whether in-person or online, provide a platform for sharing experiences and strategies for coping without dependency on substances. Healthcare providers can also play a crucial role by screening for potential misuse during consultations and offering guidance on healthier coping mechanisms. By acknowledging and addressing the psychological factors behind NyQuil misuse, individuals can take significant steps towards recovery and establish a healthier relationship with medication.

Navigating Recovery: Steps to Take if You’re Struggling with NyQuil Misuse

If you find yourself struggling with NyQuil misuse, the first step towards recovery is acknowledging the problem. Recognizing that reliance on any substance, including over-the-counter medications, can have detrimental effects on your health and well-being is crucial. Once this acknowledgment is made, reaching out for professional help becomes an essential next step. Addiction specialists and healthcare providers can offer the support and guidance needed to safely reduce and eventually eliminate dependence on NyQuil. They can help devise a tapering schedule that minimizes withdrawal symptoms, making the process more manageable.

In addition to professional help, seeking support from peers who have faced or are facing similar challenges can be incredibly beneficial. Support groups, both in-person and online, offer a sense of community and understanding that can be comforting during recovery. Sharing experiences and strategies for coping without NyQuil can provide practical advice and emotional support. Engaging in healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep, can also support physical and mental health during this period. Recovery is a journey, and while it may present challenges, it also offers the opportunity for growth and healing. With the right support and resources, overcoming NyQuil misuse is within reach.

Many long-term users have been successfully treated at Resurgence Behavioral Health. If you want to know more about our addiction treatment programs, contact us at 855-458-0050. We offer effective drug and alcohol rehab programs that can help you get on the path of recovery.

FAQs: Nyquil Addiction

What is NyQuil?

NyQuil is an over-the-counter medication commonly used to treat symptoms of the common cold and flu. It contains a combination of antihistamines, cough suppressants, and pain relievers.

Can You Become Addicted to NyQuil?

Yes, while NyQuil is generally safe when used as directed, it can be habit-forming, especially due to its sedative properties. Long-term misuse can lead to addiction.

What are the Signs of NyQuil Abuse?

Signs of abuse include using NyQuil in higher doses than recommended, using it for non-medical reasons (such as achieving a state of drowsiness or euphoria), and continuing to use it despite negative consequences.

What are the Risks of Long-term NyQuil Use?

Long-term abuse of NyQuil can lead to liver damage, dizziness, nausea, and other health issues. It can also lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms when usage is stopped.

How Can You Safely Stop Using NyQuil?

If you’re struggling with NyQuil misuse, it’s important to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can provide guidance and support for safely discontinuing its use.

Are there safer alternatives to NyQuil for treating cold and flu symptoms?

Yes, there are other medications and natural remedies that can be effective. It’s best to consult with a healthcare provider to find the most suitable option for your symptoms.

What should you do if you suspect someone is abusing NyQuil?

If you suspect someone is abusing NyQuil, encourage them to seek professional help. Addiction to over-the-counter medications is a serious issue and should be treated with professional guidance.

*As required by law, all communications with Resurgence Behavioral Health are HIPAA Compliant and 100% Confidential