7 Risks of Drinking DayQuil and Alcohol

During cold and flu season, many of us turn to over-the-counter medications like DayQuil to relieve symptoms. Unfortunately, combining DayQuil and alcohol can lead to some significant health risks.

How DayQuil Affects the Body

DayQuil is an over-the-counter medication commonly used to relieve symptoms associated with colds and the flu. It typically contains a combination of active ingredients:

• Pain Relievers (e.g., Acetaminophen). These ingredients help reduce fever and relieve aches and pains associated with illnesses.
• Decongestants (e.g., Phenylephrine). Decongestants narrow blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and congestion.
• Antihistamines (e.g., Diphenhydramine). Antihistamines can relieve allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itching.

When you take DayQuil, it can have the following effects on your body:

• Fever Reduction. If you have a fever, DayQuil can help reduce your body temperature.
• Pain Relief. It can ease headaches, body aches, and other discomforts associated with illnesses.
• Nasal Decongestion. DayQuil can help relieve nasal congestion and improve your ability to breathe through your nose.
• Drowsiness. Some formulations of DayQuil may cause drowsiness because of the presence of antihistamines.

How Alcohol Affects the Body

Alcohol is a depressant, and its effects on the body can vary depending on the amount consumed and individual factors. When you consume alcohol, it affects the central nervous system and can lead to various effects, including:

• Euphoria and Relaxation. Initially, alcohol may lead to feelings of relaxation and euphoria.
• Impaired Judgment. Alcohol can impair decision-making, leading to poor judgment and increased risk-taking behavior.
• Slurred Speech and Lack of Coordination. Alcohol impairs motor skills and coordination, leading to slurred speech and difficulty walking.
• Nausea and Vomiting. Overconsumption of alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, leading to nausea and, sometimes, vomiting.
• Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure. Alcohol can temporarily raise heart rate and blood pressure.
• Liver Metabolism. The liver metabolizes alcohol, which can place stress on the organ, especially with excessive or chronic alcohol use.
• Depression of the Central Nervous System. Alcohol can slow down the central nervous system, which can lead to symptoms like drowsiness, impaired reflexes, and even unconsciousness in severe cases.
• Dehydration. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it can lead to increased urination and dehydration.
• Hangover. The next day, alcohol can lead to a hangover, characterized by headache, fatigue, dehydration, and nausea.

What Are The Risks Of Combining DayQuil & Alcohol?

Combining DayQuil and alcohol can have several effects on the body, as both substances have distinct actions that can interact in potentially harmful ways. Seven of the most common risks include:

1. Drowsiness and Impaired Coordination. One of the most immediate risks of combining DayQuil and alcohol is the potential for enhanced drowsiness and impaired coordination. Both DayQuil and alcohol can cause drowsiness on their own. When taken together, these effects can be amplified, making it dangerous to drive or operate heavy machinery.

2. Decreased Mental Alertness. Alcohol is a depressant, and DayQuil contains various active ingredients, including decongestants and antihistamines, which can cause drowsiness and decreased mental alertness. Combining these substances can lead to impaired decision-making and increased risk of accidents or injuries.

3. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure. DayQuil often contains decongestants, such as phenylephrine or pseudoephedrine, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Alcohol can also lead to a temporary spike in blood pressure. Combining these substances can exacerbate these effects, putting individuals with cardiovascular issues at greater risk.

4. Liver Strain. The liver metabolizes both alcohol and DayQuil. Together, they can strain the liver as it processes both substances simultaneously. This can lead to liver damage and other health complications, especially when done regularly or in excessive amounts.

5. Gastrointestinal Distress. The combination of alcohol and DayQuil can lead to gastrointestinal distress. Alcohol irritates the stomach lining, and some ingredients in DayQuil can have a similar effect. This combination can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

6. Potential for Allergic Reactions. DayQuil contains various active ingredients, and individuals can be allergic to one or more. Mixing alcohol with DayQuil can mask or intensify allergic reactions, making it more challenging to identify and treat the allergy promptly.

7. Medication Ineffectiveness. Combining DayQuil and alcohol can render the medication ineffective in treating cold or flu symptoms. The alcohol can interfere with the absorption and efficacy of the active ingredients in DayQuil, making it less effective in relieving symptoms.

While DayQuil can be a helpful remedy for cold and flu symptoms, it should not be taken in combination with alcohol. The risks of mixing these two substances are significant and can adversely affect your health and well-being. If you are feeling unwell and require medication, follow the instructions on the label and avoid consuming alcohol until you have fully recovered.

Your health should always be a top priority, and avoiding the risks associated with mixing DayQuil and alcohol is a wise choice. Contact us today if you or someone you love struggles with excessive alcohol consumption.