Are you feeling under the weather and wondering if you can mix elderberry syrup with Dayquil to fight off your cold or flu symptoms?
While elderberry has been shown to be effective in reducing flu symptoms, it’s important to know if it’s safe to take with other medications.
In this article, we’ll explore the potential benefits of elderberry syrup, the safety concerns of mixing it with Dayquil, and what you should know before taking any supplements or medications.
So, let’s dive in and find out if elderberry syrup and Dayquil can be taken together.
Can You Take Elderberry Syrup With Dayquil?
The short answer is that it’s not recommended to take elderberry syrup and Dayquil together without consulting with a healthcare provider first.
Dayquil is a combination of acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine, which are all active ingredients that can interact with other medications or supplements.
Elderberry syrup, on the other hand, contains flavonoids and anthocyanins that are believed to stimulate the immune system and reduce flu symptoms.
While there is limited research on the potential interactions between elderberry syrup and Dayquil specifically, it’s important to be cautious when mixing any medications or supplements.
What Is Elderberry Syrup And How Does It Work?
Elderberry syrup is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat viral illnesses like the common cold and flu. It is made from the extract of the elderberry plant, which contains high levels of antioxidants called flavonoids and anti-inflammatory chemicals called anthocyanins.
These compounds are believed to stimulate the immune system and reduce flu symptoms like aches, pains, and fever. Elderberry syrup has been shown to be effective in reducing the duration and severity of respiratory infections like the common cold and flu if taken early.
However, it’s important to note that there isn’t enough reliable information to say whether elderberry syrup might be helpful for other purposes. It is also important to seek medical advice before taking elderberry syrup with other medications or supplements, including Dayquil, as there may be potential interactions.
The Benefits Of Elderberry Syrup For Cold And Flu Symptoms
Elderberry syrup has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for viral illnesses like the common cold and flu. Some studies have suggested that elderberry syrup can shorten the duration of these illnesses and make symptoms less severe.
A 2019 study on elderberry for cold and flu found that it appeared to reduce the duration of upper airway symptoms caused by the flu when taken at the onset of symptoms. Another study from 2004 found that symptom improvement occurred four days sooner in those who were given elderberry syrup four times daily.
Furthermore, a recent systematic review found that elderberry may be a safe option for reducing the severity and duration of respiratory infections like the common cold and flu. However, it’s important to keep in mind that most of the trials done have been funded by the company that makes the supplement, leading to possible bias in the results.
While elderberry syrup may not prevent infection, it may reduce the symptoms associated with the common cold or flu if taken early. Elderberry contains a protein called hemagglutinin that may prevent a virus from causing infection and may stop viruses from spreading, which could shorten the time you feel sick.
It’s important to note that there is no defined, standard dose of elderberry, so the amounts given differ among studies. Additionally, dietary supplements should not be used to treat a condition or disease without consulting with a healthcare provider first.
What Is Dayquil And How Does It Work?
Dayquil is a popular over-the-counter medication used to treat common cold and flu symptoms. It is designed to provide temporary relief from symptoms without causing drowsiness. The medication contains three active ingredients: acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine.
Acetaminophen is a fever and pain reducer that works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and fever. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that works by reducing the urge to cough. Phenylephrine is a decongestant that works by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, which helps to reduce swelling and congestion.
When taken as directed, Dayquil can provide relief from a variety of cold and flu symptoms, including fever, cough, congestion, headache, and sore throat. However, it’s important to note that Dayquil is not a cure for cold or flu viruses and will not shorten the duration of illness.
As with any medication, it’s important to follow the recommended dosages and to talk to a healthcare provider before taking Dayquil if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications or supplements.
Mixing Elderberry Syrup With Dayquil: Is It Safe?
As mentioned earlier, there is no known severe, serious, or moderate interaction between elderberry syrup and other drugs. However, some individuals have reported discomfort and adverse reactions when taking elderberry syrup and Dayquil together.
It’s important to note that elderberry syrup is not regulated by the FDA as a medicine but rather as a dietary supplement. Therefore, it has not been subjected to the same safety or efficacy requirements as medication, and there is limited literature available regarding its potential drug interactions.
Additionally, Dayquil contains acetaminophen, which can cause liver damage when taken in high doses or combined with other medications that also contain acetaminophen. Elderberry syrup may also have mild interactions with at least 28 different drugs.
Therefore, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking elderberry syrup and Dayquil together. Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. They can advise you on the appropriate dosage, timing, and potential risks associated with combining these two substances.
Potential Interactions And Side Effects To Watch Out For
There are a few potential interactions and side effects to be aware of when considering taking elderberry syrup and Dayquil together.
Firstly, elderberry can increase the activity of the immune system, which may be beneficial for fighting off infections. However, some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking elderberry along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications. Therefore, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking elderberry syrup if you are on any immunosuppressant medications.
Secondly, while elderberry is generally considered safe when taken as directed for a short period of time, it may cause serious side effects in some people. If you have signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, difficult breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek emergency medical help immediately. Additionally, elderberry is possibly unsafe when uncooked leaves, stems, or fruit are consumed. The plant contains a chemical that produces cyanide in the leaves or other plant parts and in the unripe green fruit. This can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea or more serious side effects if consumed in large quantities.
Thirdly, Dayquil contains acetaminophen which can cause liver damage if taken in excess or combined with other medications that also contain acetaminophen. It’s important to avoid taking more than the recommended dose of Dayquil and to check the labels of other medications to ensure they do not contain acetaminophen.
Lastly, Dayquil may interact with other medications or supplements that you are taking. For example, phenylephrine can increase blood pressure and may interact with medications used to treat high blood pressure. Dextromethorphan may interact with certain antidepressants and increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Therefore, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking Dayquil if you are on any other medications or supplements.
How To Safely Take Elderberry Syrup And Dayquil Together
If you are considering taking elderberry syrup and Dayquil together, it’s important to first consult with a healthcare provider. They can advise you on whether it’s safe to take these two substances together based on your individual health history and any medications you may be taking.
If your healthcare provider gives you the green light to take elderberry syrup and Dayquil together, it’s important to follow the recommended dosages for each product. Do not exceed the recommended dosage for either product, as this could increase your risk of side effects or interactions.
When taking elderberry syrup and Dayquil together, be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. This can help reduce the risk of side effects and ensure that both substances are properly absorbed by your body.
It’s also important to monitor yourself for any potential side effects or adverse reactions when taking elderberry syrup and Dayquil together. If you experience any unusual symptoms or discomfort, stop taking the products immediately and contact your healthcare provider.
