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My Experience with NyQuil: A Panicked Night

7/1/2025, 5:20:28 AMMale25-34

Age 20, female. Approximately three hours ago, I consumed two doses of NyQuil. My food intake today was minimal—I had just a taco, some ice cream, and salami. I had been using NyQuil for the past couple of nights due to a severe cold, but tonight was different. I suddenly felt an overwhelming sense of panic, as if I were on the brink of death. Additionally, I took a few hits from my weed pen after the NyQuil. Typically, cannabis doesn’t cause me to panic; however, the combination of feeling extremely drowsy from the NyQuil and being high created a bizarre sensation. My head felt excessively warm, and my vision altered in a disconcerting manner. I got up in distress, telling my boyfriend that something was seriously wrong. Unfortunately, he was sound asleep. In my mounting anxiety, I went to find his mother, as we live together. By this point, I truly felt as if I was going to die. Despite having only taken the recommended amount of NyQuil—no more than two doses in the last 24 hours—I was unsure if I was experiencing an overdose. I repeatedly told her, "I took NyQuil and I feel like I’m overdosing or something. I don’t know what’s happening." To affirm my reality, I kept repeating my name and address, convinced I was losing grip on sanity. My heart raced uncontrollably, I was intensely nauseous, and I felt detached from my body. She advised me to lie down next to her, as I was frightened I might stop breathing. The overwhelming disorientation, fear, and nausea made me question if my throat was swelling shut. Now, a couple of hours later, I’m feeling significantly calmer and more like myself, although I'm still somewhat groggy. Has anyone else gone through this experience with NyQuil? Thank you in advance for any insights.

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Answers (1)

Cony

7/1/2025, 5:20:42 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you had a very distressing experience, and I'm glad to hear you're feeling calmer now. Your symptoms of panic, racing heart, nausea, and feeling disoriented may be attributed to a combination of factors, including the effects of NyQuil and possibly the cannabis you consumed.

Explanation:

NyQuil contains active ingredients like diphenhydramine and acetaminophen, which can cause drowsiness and, in some individuals, might trigger feelings of anxiety or panic, especially if taken on an empty stomach. Combining it with cannabis can also alter how you perceive its effects, potentially leading to increased feelings of anxiety or panic. Feeling detached and having altered vision are also symptoms that can occur as a result of either substance.

Next Steps:

  1. Hydrate: Drink water to help flush your system and maintain hydration. This can aid your recovery from any residual effects of both NyQuil and cannabis.

  2. Nourish Yourself: Since your food intake was minimal, consider eating mild, nourishing foods like toast, bananas, or soup to help stabilize your stomach and energy levels.

  3. Rest: Allow your body time to recover. A good night's sleep can help clear residual grogginess and restore your sense of well-being.

  4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on how you feel over the next few hours and days. If you experience any more intense symptoms, such as severe headaches, persistent nausea, severe anxiety, or any new concerning symptoms, try to seek medical advice.

  5. Talk About It: Sharing your experience with someone close to you—like your boyfriend or his mother—can help alleviate any residual anxiety. Sometimes discussing your feelings and experiences can reduce their intensity.

  6. Avoid Combining Substances: In the future, consider not combining NyQuil with cannabis or other substances, especially if you've had negative reactions in the past.

If you feel persistent panic or any significant changes in your health, don't hesitate to reach out for professional medical support. It's always okay to seek reassurance and clarity when feeling anxious or unwell.

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