What is it in Nyquil that gives immediate relief to my throat?

Question

I have a nasty head cold. My throat is sore and I’m coughing up phlegm. My throat feels like it’s constantly full of mucus.

But when I take nyquil (liquid) I get an immediate, but short-lived relief from the mucus and pain.

Is it the alcohol, one of the active ingredients, or something else?

I’m a non-drinker and don’t use recreational drugs and not looking to start. I’m just curious what causes that immediate relief sensation. I suspect it might be the alcohol but I’m not sure.

In: 2

Answer 1

Here’s the [official list of ingredients](https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=11133d25-028b-4245-b2a0-11f6adaa9326) for Nyquil.

Here’s how [dextromethorphan](https://reference.medscape.com/drug/balminil-dm-benylin-dm-dextromethorphan-343401#10) works. It “numbs” the medulla (brain center) to the irritation that causes coughs.

Here’s how [doxylamine](https://reference.medscape.com/drug/doxylamine-342933#10) works. It’s a local numbing agent that prevents the irritation response / swelling in your throat.