However, not all cold and flu remedies have good evidence behind them, and you could save time and money by avoiding the ones you don't need.

cold and flu medicines - Which? News How to save on cold and flu medicines - Which? News

The evidence for numbing throat sprays, such as Difflam, is also inconclusive. The issue is whether they can reach the inflamed part of the throat well enough to provide relief. The speed of absorption of paracetamol may be increased by metoclopramide or domperidone and absorption reduced by colestyramine. The anticoagulant effect of warfarin and other coumarins may be enhanced by prolonged regular daily use of paracetamol with increased risk of bleeding, occasional doses have no significant effect. There is slightly better evidence for pseudoephedrine, which is available from behind the pharmacy counter. If you're interested in getting vaccinated against flu this winter, you can pay for vaccination at a number of pharmacies including those at some supermarkets. Evidence for cough syrups, however, is thin on the ground. They might offer some comfort at the time you take them, simply by coating the throat, but they'll have little to no effect on the natural course of the infection.

Be careful about taking any other paracetamol products in conjunction with combination tablets, as it can be easy to accidentally take more than the recommended dose. Cold and flu sachets are much more expensive per unit than capsules but are often stronger, and many people like having a soothing hot drink while they're feeling ill, rather than having to take tablets. They don't tend to contain caffeine either. Empty the contents of the sachet into a cup. Add half a cup of hot (not boiling) water and stir to dissolve. You can add cold water and sugar if you want before drinking. Be aware that you probably won't need all these ingredients for the duration of a common cold. If you aren't feeling congested, for example, you can always switch to a painkiller and cup of coffee instead. It's fine to take Beechams cold & flu sachets with plain ibuprofen or aspirin (assuming these are appropriate for you). However, don't take them with co-codamol, co-dydramol or Tramacet because these contain paracetamol.

cold and flu sachets - NetDoctor Beechams cold and flu sachets - NetDoctor

Get immediate medical advice if you or someone you know takes too much paracetamol, even if you feel well, because of the risk of delayed, serious liver damage.Cold and flu medicines come in a range of formats including tablets, liquids and sachets (for making a hot drink). They typically contain paracetamol, phenylephrine (a decongestant), and caffeine. A wealth of other cold and flu remedies are available to buy without a prescription. Many of these also contain paracetamol and phenylephrine in their ingredients. Paracetamol and phenylephrine are also available separately. There's some evidence that lozenges help with throat pain, but there's not a great deal of evidence to suggest you need a medicated lozenge. Some people - including over 65s, those with certain chronic health conditions, and pregnant women - are entitled to the flu vaccination for free on the NHS. This can be done either via your GP or at a pharmacy.