Using Flu and Severe Cold Nighttime Powder is simple and easy. It’s designed to be taken before bedtime.
Steps to use:
- Open one packet.
- Pour the powder into a mug or cup.
- Add hot water (6 to 8 ounces).
- Stir until dissolved.
- Sip the drink slowly while warm.
Important tips:
- Only use this medicine at night, as it can make you drowsy.
- Do not drive or use heavy machines after taking it.
Drink plenty of fluids and get rest to help your body heal.
Flu and Severe Cold Nighttime Powder works by combining different active ingredients, each of which treats a specific symptom. Common ingredients include:
- Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) – Reduces fever, headaches, and body pain.
- Dextromethorphan – A cough suppressant that helps reduce dry, irritating coughs.
- Diphenhydramine – An antihistamine that stops sneezing, runny nose, and also helps with sleep.
- Phenylephrine (in some formulas) – Helps open blocked nose and sinuses (used in certain versions).
Together, these ingredients:
- Help you fall asleep faster
- Let you rest better through the night
- Reduce cold and flu symptoms
Help your body recover while you sleep
While most people can use this medicine without problems, side effects are still possible. Many are mild and go away as your body adjusts.
Common side effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Blurred vision
Rare but serious side effects:
- Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Liver damage (especially from acetaminophen overdose)
- Trouble urinating
- Mood changes or confusion (in elderly patients)
Stop using the medicine and get medical help right away if you notice:
- Severe dizziness
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (sign of liver trouble)
- Rash or itching
- Swelling in the face or throat
Important warnings before using this medicine:
Do not use this product if:
- You are allergic to acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, or any of the ingredients
- You are already taking other medicines with acetaminophen
- You have taken an MAOI (a type of antidepressant) in the last 14 days
Talk to a doctor before use if you:
- Have liver or kidney problems
- Have asthma or breathing issues
- Have glaucoma
- Have trouble urinating due to prostate problems
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it increases the risk of drowsiness and liver damage.
Do not use in children under 12 years unless directed by a doctor.
- Other cold/flu medicines – May contain the same ingredients (risk of overdose)
- Sleep aids or sedatives – Can increase drowsiness
- Alcohol – Can increase risk of liver damage and extreme drowsiness
- Blood thinners (like warfarin) – May affect bleeding risk
- Antidepressants (especially MAOIs) – Can cause dangerous reactions
- Seizure medications – Some ingredients may interfere
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you use:
- Any prescription or OTC medicine
- Herbal supplements or vitamins
- Cough syrups or allergy medicines
Follow these guidelines to take the medicine safely:
- Use only 1 packet at a time, every 6 hours if needed
- Do not take more than 4 packets in 24 hours
- Do not use with other medicines that contain similar ingredients (especially acetaminophen or diphenhydramine)
- Do not double up on doses if you miss one
If you accidentally take too much, get medical help immediately, even if you feel fine at first. Taking too much acetaminophen can seriously damage the liver.
Drink plenty of water and rest while you are recovering from cold or flu symptoms.
Flu and Severe Cold Nighttime Powder is an OTC (over-the-counter) medicine. This means:
- You do not need a prescription to buy it
- It is sold in pharmacies, grocery stores, and online
- Even though it’s available without a doctor’s prescription, it should be used with care
If you have a chronic condition, are taking other medications, or if your symptoms are not improving after 7 days, it is best to talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using this product regularly.
Never give this medicine to others, especially children, unless advised by a healthcare provider.
1. What is Flu and Severe Cold Night Time used for? It relieves nighttime symptoms of cold and flu like cough, fever, sore throat, and nasal congestion.
2. What are the active ingredients? Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan HBr, Doxylamine Succinate, and Phenylephrine HCl.
3. What drug class does it belong to? Upper respiratory combinations.
4. Is it a controlled substance? No, it is not classified as a controlled substance.
5. Is a generic version available? Yes, generics with the same ingredients are available.
6. What are common brand names for this formulation? Theraflu Nighttime Severe Cold, Equate Nighttime Flu and Severe Cold, Walgreens Nighttime Severe Cold & Flu.
7. How is it administered? As softgels, caplets, or powder dissolved in hot water.
8. What symptoms does it relieve? Cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, fever, headache, runny nose, sneezing, and body aches.
9. Can it be used for children? Typically not recommended for children under 12 without medical advice.
10. How often can it be taken? Usually every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 8 softgels in 24 hours.
11. What are common side effects? Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and upset stomach.
12. Can it cause serious reactions? Yes, including liver damage if taken with other acetaminophen products.
13. Is it safe during pregnancy? Consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
14. Can it be taken with other medications? Avoid combining with other acetaminophen or antihistamine products.
15. How should it be stored? Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat.
16. Is a prescription required? No, it is available over-the-counter.
17. Is it available in Pakistan? Availability may vary; check with local pharmacies.
18. Can it be used during the day? No, this is a nighttime formulation; use daytime versions for morning relief.
19. What precautions should be taken? Do not exceed recommended dose; avoid alcohol and monitor for allergic reactions.
20. Is it covered by insurance? Usually not, as it is an OTC product.