Alcohol and Dayquil: A Hazardous Combo

People generate their own ways of getting drunk. In many cases they choose medications as a form of intoxication. There are many medicines out there that create an intoxicating effect. Medication used especially for treating cold and flu have some ingredients which can cause a euphoric effect when consumed in a large quantity. That is why it is necessary to have your dosage prescribed by a physician. Along with that, such medicines should not be sold to people under the age of 18 years. Dayquil is one of such medicines which are effective in treating regular cold and flu and also contain Dextromethorphan or DXM. There are definitely chances of abusing this ingredient in a recreational way. 

Drinking and feeling sick

The basic thing is that one should never drink when feeling sick. Alcohol can dehydrate the body and impair vision and judgement. Drinking alcohol can worsen the symptoms and make one feel sicker. Adding Dayquil with alcohol is a hazardous combination as DXM and acetaminophen interacts in an adverse way with alcohol. Mixing alcohol and Dayquil can even result in hospitalization. One must take Dayquil in a limited amount as prescribed and should never mix it with any kind of alcoholic drink. 

How long should one wait 

Every medicine is metabolized by everybody in a different way. Dayquil takes 30 minutes to start its action and remains active in the system for 4-6 hours. This duration can vary from person to person. This period must be given importance and one should never drink alcohol during this period. In most cases, it is safe to drink alcohol only after 6 hours of taking Dayquil. It is definitely a great choice to avoid alcohol completely when you are sick. Abusing medicines for recreational purpose should also be avoided as it can cause health hazards.