Being sick can be one of the most untimely and frustrating situations to be in. You may religiously wash your hands and do your best to avoid sick co-workers and family members but still get sick. Fortunately, there are over-the-counter, or OTC, medications that can relieve some of the symptoms you are experiencing. More specifically, Tylenol Cold Multi-Symptom Severe has ingredients that may reduce some of your discomfort.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is the active ingredient in every brand of Tylenol, according to Tylenol.com. This active ingredient can treat a fever and can reduce some of the muscle aches and other pain that you may be experiencing. According to Drugs.com, acetaminophen inhibits chemical signals that cause fever and pain. Use extreme caution when taking acetaminophen. Drugs.com states that taking more than 4 grams of acetaminophen per day can result in serious liver damage. Tylenol Cold Multi-Symptom Severe has 325 milligrams of acetaminophen. Therefore, do not take more than 12 doses in a 24-hour period. Seek immediate medical attention if you think you may have taken too much acetaminophen.
Dextromethorphan
Tylenol.com lists dextromethorphan as an active ingredient in Tylenol Cold Multi-Symptom Severe. This ingredient is a cough suppressant that decreases the cough reflex in your brain, according to Drugs.com. Common side effects, according to Drugs.com, include dizziness, drowsiness and stomach upset. If you are experiencing side effects from this active ingredient or have been coughing for more than a week, alert your doctor.
Guaifenesin
Guaifenesin is an expectorant in Tylenol Cold Multi-Symptom Severe. An expectorant decreases chest congestion by loosening mucous and lubricating your lungs, according to Drugs.com. You must drink plenty of fluids for this medication to work effectively. Common side effects include dizziness, headache, rash and upset stomach. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or your congestion is lasting for more than a week, alert your doctor.
Phenylephrine
Phenylephrine is an OTC nasal decongestant used in many medications including Tylenol Multi-Symptom Severe. Nasal congestion, or a stuffy nose, is caused by swollen nasal tissue and blood vessels that block nasal passages. This results in breathing difficulty that may be quite severe. Drugs.com states that phenylephrine may cause dizziness, headache, nausea, nervousness restlessness, sleepiness or stomach irritation. In addition, do not use any medication with phenylephrine for more than a week because abrupt discontinuation can result in a worsening of nasal congestion. If you are experiencing side effects from this ingredient or unresolved nasal congestion, alert your doctor.
