A two-tablet cold and flu pack with white DAY tablets (paracetamol + pseudoephedrine) and blue NIGHT tablets (paracetamol + diphenhydramine)
For adults and adolescents 12+ for cold and flu symptoms with congestion, pain, headache, fever, and bedtime symptoms disturbing sleep
Day dose: 1 white tablet every 4 to 6 hours (max 3 white per day). Night dose: 1 blue tablet at bedtime. Do not swap or exceed doses
Contraindicated with MAOI antidepressants (current or last 14 days), diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, and glaucoma
Available from Courier Pharmacy as a pharmacy medicine (P) with pharmacist support
Benylin Day and Night Tablets are supplied in a 16-tablet pack. The pack contains 12 white DAY tablets and 4 blue NIGHT tablets.
Firstly, each white DAY tablet contains paracetamol 500mg (an analgesic and antipyretic) plus pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 60mg (a decongestant).
Also, each blue NIGHT tablet contains paracetamol 500mg plus diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25mg (a first-generation sedating antihistamine).
Furthermore, the manufacturer is Kenvue (formerly Johnson & Johnson Consumer Healthcare). Benylin is a long-established UK cold and cough brand.
How the day and night tablets differ
The two tablet types target the different symptom needs of day and night. Firstly, the day tablet keeps you alert while relieving congestion and pain.
Also, the night tablet helps you sleep by adding a sedating antihistamine to the pain and fever relief. The diphenhydramine also helps dry up catarrh.
However, the two must not be swapped. The night tablet contains a sedating antihistamine that would impair daytime activity.
Also, the day tablet contains pseudoephedrine that can disturb sleep if taken too close to bedtime. Timing matters.
A pharmacy medicine with pack size restrictions
Benylin Day and Night Tablets are a pharmacy medicine (P). They can only be supplied via pharmacies with pharmacist involvement.
Firstly, the pseudoephedrine content triggers UK Misuse of Drugs Regulations pack size limits. The 16-tablet pack sits within these limits.
Also, pharmacies usually limit purchases to one pack per transaction. This is to prevent bulk buying for illicit methamphetamine manufacture.
Furthermore, at Courier Pharmacy, our pharmacist may ask a few questions before supply. This check confirms the product is suitable for your situation.
Key features and specifications
Pack contents: 12 white DAY tablets + 4 blue NIGHT tablets in a 16-tablet pack
White DAY tablet: paracetamol 500mg + pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 60mg
Blue NIGHT tablet: paracetamol 500mg + diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25mg
Form: oral film-coated tablets, two different colours for easy identification
Marketing Authorisation Holder: Kenvue (formerly Johnson & Johnson Consumer Healthcare)
Legal status: Pharmacy medicine (P), subject to Misuse of Drugs Regulations pack size limits
Age: adults and adolescents 12 years and over
Storage: store below 25°C, keep in original packaging
Distinctive features: two tablet types for day and night use, three active ingredients across the pack, three-symptom coverage (pain and fever, congestion, sleep disturbance)
Suggested image alt text: Benylin Day and Night Tablets paracetamol pseudoephedrine diphenhydramine cold flu
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A two-tablet cold and flu pack for round-the-clock relief
Benylin Day and Night Tablets are a well-known UK cold and flu remedy. Each pack contains two different tablet types for use at different times of day.
Firstly, the white DAY tablets contain paracetamol 500mg (pain and fever relief) plus pseudoephedrine 60mg (decongestant). These are for daytime use and are non-drowsy.
Also, the blue NIGHT tablet contains paracetamol 500mg (pain and fever relief) plus diphenhydramine 25mg (a sedating antihistamine). This is for bedtime use and can help you sleep through symptoms.
However, this pack must be used exactly as directed. The night tablet must never be taken during the day, as it causes drowsiness.
Also, Benylin Day and Night Tablets are for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and over. It is a pharmacy medicine (P) sold only via pharmacies.
Furthermore, the pseudoephedrine content triggers UK Misuse of Drugs Regulations pack size limits. Pack size is capped and a pharmacist assessment applies.
Above all, an MHRA 2024 safety alert applies to all pseudoephedrine products. There is a rare but serious risk of PRES and RCVS (brain-blood-vessel conditions).
Also, both paracetamol and pseudoephedrine carry their own specific risks. The diphenhydramine has anticholinergic effects that need caution in some patients.
At Courier Pharmacy, our team can help you decide whether Benylin Day and Night fits your symptoms and situation.
When to see a doctor rather than self-treat
Benylin Day and Night Tablets are for short-term symptom relief only. However, some symptoms need medical assessment instead of continued self-treatment.
Sudden severe headache, seizures, sudden confusion, or visual disturbance. Stop the tablets and call 999 (possible PRES or RCVS from the pseudoephedrine)
Sudden abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or blood in stools. Stop the tablets and seek urgent help (rare risk of ischaemic colitis from pseudoephedrine)
Chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, or one-sided weakness. Call 999
Cold or flu symptoms lasting more than 7 to 10 days without improvement, or symptoms that improve and then worsen
Thick coloured nasal discharge with high fever, severe facial pain, or dental pain (possible bacterial sinusitis)
Severe or widespread skin rash with pustules, blistering, or peeling. Stop the tablets and seek urgent help (possible AGEP)
Signs of paracetamol overdose (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness). Contact NHS 111 or A&E
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, over 60, take blood thinners, or have any of the medical conditions in the warnings section below, don’t take these without pharmacist or GP advice
Five key takeaways
Benylin Day and Night Tablets contain two tablet types. White DAY tablets have paracetamol 500mg + pseudoephedrine 60mg (non-drowsy). Blue NIGHT tablets have paracetamol 500mg + diphenhydramine 25mg (sedating).
Licensed for adults and adolescents 12+ for nasal and sinus congestion with pain, headache, and/or fever from colds and flu, when bedtime symptoms also disturb sleep.
Dose: 1 white tablet every 4 to 6 hours during the day (max 3 white tablets); 1 blue tablet at bedtime. Never take the blue tablet during the day.
Contraindicated in diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, angle-closure glaucoma, MAOI antidepressants (current or last 14 days), and with beta-blockers or other decongestants.
Carries pseudoephedrine risks (PRES/RCVS, ischaemic colitis, AGEP), paracetamol risks (liver toxicity in overdose), and diphenhydramine risks (drowsiness, anticholinergic effects). Do not combine with other paracetamol, decongestant, or antihistamine products.
What are Benylin Day and Night Tablets: overview
Where Benylin Day and Night fits in cold and flu treatment
Cold and flu produce different symptom patterns at different times of day. Congestion often improves overnight but returns in the morning. Bedtime symptoms can disturb sleep.
Firstly, Benylin Day and Night’s specific niche is round-the-clock symptom coverage. The day tablets keep you functional, and the night tablet helps you sleep.
Also, if you only need daytime relief, plain Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain, or plain paracetamol + a separate decongestant, may fit better.
However, if only nighttime symptoms are a problem, plain paracetamol at bedtime, or a specific night-only product like Night Nurse Capsules, may fit better.
Benylin Day and Night vs separate day and night products
Some patients prefer separate day and night products. This allows more control over which actives are taken.
Firstly, plain paracetamol with a decongestant during the day, plus paracetamol with a sedating antihistamine at night, gives similar coverage but more flexibility.
However, the Benylin combined pack is more convenient. It provides matched daytime and nighttime doses in one pack.
Also, the pre-packaged approach makes it easier to remember which tablet to take when. Colour-coding (white vs blue) reinforces the day-night distinction.
Benylin Day and Night vs Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain
Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain contains ibuprofen 200mg + pseudoephedrine 30mg. It is a daytime-only combination product for congestion with pain or fever.
Firstly, the Benylin day tablet uses paracetamol (not ibuprofen) with a higher dose of pseudoephedrine (60mg vs 30mg). It suits patients who cannot take ibuprofen (asthma, ulcer, kidney disease).
However, the Benylin pack also gives you a nighttime option. Sudafed Sinus is daytime-only.
Also, Sudafed Sinus has a higher minimum age (15+ due to ibuprofen). Benylin is 12+.
As a result, choose based on ibuprofen suitability, symptom timing, and whether you need nighttime cover.
Short-term use only
Benylin Day and Night Tablets are licensed for short-term (up to 3 days) symptom relief. Symptoms that persist beyond this need medical assessment.
Firstly, prolonged decongestant use raises cardiovascular strain. Prolonged sedating antihistamine use can cause daytime cognitive slowing and dependence.
Also, prolonged paracetamol use raises liver strain, particularly if combined with alcohol or existing liver problems.
However, chronic congestion or persistent cold-like symptoms have their own management. Ask your GP if symptoms recur or persist.
Self-medication with pharmacist support
Because Benylin Day and Night is a pharmacy medicine, buying at Courier Pharmacy comes with pharmacist support. Firstly, this is a mandated feature of the pharmacy classification.
Also, the pharmacist can check that the product fits your symptoms and situation. They will confirm you are not on MAOI antidepressants, beta-blockers, or other interacting medicines.
However, if this product is not right for you, we will explain why. We will then suggest safer options (single-active products, non-sedating options, or a GP appointment).
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Benylin Day and Night Tablets
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy. The General Pharmaceutical Council regulates us.
Firstly, even for a well-known pharmacy medicine like Benylin, pharmacist support matters. A short conversation can prevent avoidable harm.
Also, we treat every request as a chance to check that the product fits your situation. This is not a simple retail transaction.
As a result, buying these tablets from us comes with the reassurance that a UK-qualified pharmacist has thought about your specific case.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message is straightforward. You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
Care that keeps showing up
Pharmacy-medicine purchases are not one-off transactions when done properly. Firstly, we are here to answer follow-up questions if the product is not working as expected.
Also, if you notice unexpected side effects or your symptoms change, contact us. If symptoms persist beyond 3 days, we can help you think through the next step.
However, we will not sell repeated packs to someone who really needs medical assessment. That is not care, it is just retail.
Buy Benylin Day and Night Tablets from Courier Pharmacy
Benylin Day and Night Tablets are a pharmacy medicine (P). You can order at courierpharmacy.co.uk in the 16-tablet pack.
Add Benylin Day and Night Tablets to your basket at courierpharmacy.co.uk
A brief pharmacist suitability check will be conducted before supply
Your order is dispensed and dispatched promptly
Follow the pack directions carefully. Contact us if you have questions
If this product is not right for your situation, we will explain why. Options include plain paracetamol, plain Sudafed Decongestant Tablets, a non-sedating antihistamine plus decongestant, or a GP appointment.
Above all, we will not dispense a pack that is not suitable for you just because it was requested.
Summary
A pharmacy-sold two-tablet pack containing white day tablets (paracetamol + pseudoephedrine) and blue night tablets (paracetamol + diphenhydramine).
Adult and 12+ dose: 1 white tablet 3 times a day (morning, midday, afternoon) + 1 blue tablet at bedtime; max 4 tablets in 24 hours.
For cold and flu symptoms with congestion, pain, headache, fever, and bedtime symptoms disturbing sleep.
Contraindicated in diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, glaucoma, and with MAOIs, beta-blockers, or other decongestants.
Subject to UK Misuse of Drugs Regulations pack size limits (720mg pseudoephedrine per pack, one pack per transaction).
Active ingredients in Benylin Day and Night Tablets
Paracetamol 500mg (in both day and night tablets)
Paracetamol is a widely-used analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). It is present in both tablet types.
Firstly, the exact mechanism is not fully understood. It is thought to act primarily on the central nervous system, reducing prostaglandin production in the brain and spinal cord.
Also, at the 500mg dose, paracetamol provides mild to moderate pain relief and reduces fever. Onset is usually within 30 to 60 minutes.
However, paracetamol has a narrow safety margin in overdose. Doses just above the maximum can cause serious liver damage.
As a result, total daily paracetamol from all sources must not exceed 4 grams (4000mg) in adults. The Benylin pack provides 2000mg per 24 hours if taken as directed.
Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 60mg (in the DAY tablet)
Pseudoephedrine is a synthetic sympathomimetic drug. It acts primarily on alpha-adrenergic receptors on blood vessels.
Firstly, at the 60mg dose (the standard adult decongestant dose), it works as an oral decongestant. It narrows blood vessels in the nasal and sinus lining.
However, this vasoconstricting effect is not confined to the nose. Some narrowing also occurs throughout the body. This can raise blood pressure and heart rate.
Also, pseudoephedrine has mild central nervous system stimulant effects. These include feeling more alert, and (why the day tablet is non-drowsy).
Furthermore, pseudoephedrine has been controlled in the UK under the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 since 2007, due to its potential misuse as a methamphetamine precursor.
Diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25mg (in the NIGHT tablet)
Diphenhydramine is a first-generation H1 antihistamine of the ethanolamine class. It blocks histamine H1 receptors.
Firstly, blocking H1 receptors reduces the effects of histamine. This gives it some benefit for runny nose, sneezing, and catarrh.
However, diphenhydramine crosses the blood-brain barrier readily. It causes noticeable sedation. This is why the night tablet helps sleep.
Also, diphenhydramine has anticholinergic effects. These include dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, and (in older adults) confusion or falls.
As a result, diphenhydramine gives the sedating and anticholinergic profile that separates the night tablet from the day tablet.
Why the three-active combination is used
Cold and flu symptoms include a mix of pain, fever, congestion, and (at night) sleep disturbance. Different symptoms respond to different mechanisms.
Firstly, paracetamol addresses pain and fever consistently across day and night. Its central action does not affect alertness.
Also, pseudoephedrine addresses congestion in the day tablet, when alertness is needed. It would disturb sleep if taken at night.
Furthermore, diphenhydramine addresses catarrh and helps sleep in the night tablet. It would cause unwanted drowsiness if taken during the day.
As a result, the day and night formulations cover the full 24-hour symptom picture with mechanism-appropriate actives.
What are Benylin Day and Night Tablets for?
Cold and flu with congestion, pain, and fever
Benylin Day and Night is licensed for the short-term symptomatic treatment of nasal and sinus congestion associated with cold and flu, when combined with pain, headache, and/or fever.
Firstly, the day tablet addresses daytime pain, fever, and congestion. Also, the night tablet addresses these while helping with bedtime symptoms.
However, this pack does not treat the underlying viral infection. Colds usually resolve on their own in 7 to 10 days.
When bedtime symptoms disturb sleep
The night tablet is specifically for cold and flu symptoms that disturb sleep. The sedating antihistamine helps you fall asleep and stay asleep.
Also, the diphenhydramine helps dry up catarrh and reduce runny nose that might otherwise disturb sleep.
However, do not use the night tablet as a general sleep aid. Sedating antihistamines are not first-line for insomnia.
Sinus congestion with headache
Sinus congestion often accompanies colds and causes facial pressure, headache, and (sometimes) pain over the cheeks or forehead.
The day tablet can help by reducing swelling that blocks sinus drainage and by relieving the headache.
However, severe sinus symptoms need medical assessment. Warning signs include high fever, severe facial pain, thick coloured discharge, or symptoms lasting more than 10 days.
What Benylin Day and Night isn't for
This product is not for isolated pain (no congestion), isolated congestion (no pain or fever), chronic sinus problems, cough, or sore throat as primary symptoms.
Also, it is not for children under 12. It is not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice.
However, if symptoms are severe, sudden, unusual, or accompanied by other concerning features (see the red flags above), this product is not the right response.
Furthermore, if you have diabetes, uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe heart disease, glaucoma, or take MAOI antidepressants, do not use these tablets.
How do Benylin Day and Night Tablets work?
Paracetamol's analgesic and antipyretic action
Paracetamol works mainly on the central nervous system. Firstly, it is thought to reduce prostaglandin production in the brain and spinal cord.
Also, this reduces pain perception and lowers the raised body temperature set-point during infection.
However, paracetamol has minimal anti-inflammatory effect in peripheral tissues. This is why it is a weaker anti-inflammatory than ibuprofen or aspirin.
Furthermore, paracetamol does not cause the stomach irritation, cardiovascular strain, or platelet effects associated with NSAIDs.
Pseudoephedrine narrows blood vessels in the nasal and sinus lining. Firstly, it binds to alpha-adrenergic receptors on the vessel walls.
Also, this makes the vessels tighten (vasoconstriction), reducing the swelling that causes a blocked nose. Sinus drainage improves too.
However, pseudoephedrine acts throughout the body, not just in the nose. This is why cardiovascular contraindications and cautions apply.
Furthermore, pseudoephedrine's mild CNS stimulant effect is why the day tablet is non-drowsy. This is also why it can disturb sleep if taken close to bedtime.
Diphenhydramine's antihistamine and sedative action (nighttime)
Diphenhydramine blocks histamine H1 receptors. Firstly, this reduces the effects of histamine released during colds and flu, easing runny nose and catarrh.
However, diphenhydramine crosses the blood-brain barrier readily. It blocks H1 receptors in the brain, where histamine helps maintain wakefulness.
Also, blocking these central H1 receptors induces sedation. This is why the night tablet helps sleep.
Furthermore, diphenhydramine has anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention). These are amplified in older adults.
Why day and night formulations differ
The day and night tablets are designed for their specific time of use. Firstly, the day tablet needs to keep the patient alert while relieving symptoms.
Also, the night tablet needs to help sleep by adding a sedating antihistamine to the pain and fever relief.
However, mixing these up would cause problems. The night tablet taken during the day causes unwanted drowsiness. The day tablet taken at night disturbs sleep.
As a result, colour-coding (white vs blue) and clear timing instructions matter. Take each tablet only at its designated time.
How to take Benylin Day and Night Tablets
Adult and adolescent dose (12 years and over)
Take 1 white DAY tablet in the morning, at midday, and in the afternoon. This gives 3 white tablets across the daytime.
Also, take 1 blue NIGHT tablet at bedtime. This gives a total of 4 tablets in 24 hours (3 white + 1 blue).
However, do not take more than 3 white tablets in 24 hours. Do not take more than 1 blue tablet in 24 hours. Do not take the blue night tablet during the day.
Above all, do not exceed the stated dose. Paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage even at doses just above the maximum.
Also, do not use these tablets for more than 3 days without medical advice.
The strict day-and-night pattern
The pack is designed for a specific 24-hour dosing pattern. Firstly, the white DAY tablets keep you alert and address congestion during waking hours.
Also, the blue NIGHT tablet is sedating from the diphenhydramine. It is designed for bedtime only, to help you sleep through symptoms.
However, taking the night tablet during the day would cause unwanted drowsiness. Taking the day tablet at night could disturb your sleep from the pseudoephedrine.
For example, do not double up if you have missed a dose. Just resume the normal schedule at the next appropriate time.
How quickly the tablets work
The paracetamol usually starts to reduce pain and fever within 30 to 60 minutes. The pseudoephedrine relieves congestion within about 30 minutes.
Also, peak effect for all actives is reached at about 1 to 2 hours. The effect usually lasts around 4 to 6 hours per dose.
However, the diphenhydramine in the night tablet takes about 30 to 60 minutes to cause drowsiness. So take the night tablet about 30 minutes before you plan to sleep.
Missed doses and stopping
These tablets are taken as needed, not on a fixed schedule. So there is no missed-dose concern in the usual sense.
Also, you can stop the tablets whenever your symptoms have resolved. There is no need to taper.
However, if you find yourself needing them for more than 3 days, medical assessment is warranted. The underlying cause of ongoing symptoms matters.
Do not take with other paracetamol, decongestants, or antihistamines
Above all, do not take Benylin Day and Night alongside any other product containing paracetamol. This includes plain paracetamol tablets, Panadol, Anadin Extra, Lemsip, Beechams All-in-One, Day Nurse, Night Nurse, co-codamol, or co-dydramol.
Also, do not combine with any other product containing pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, or ephedrine (Sudafed products, Actifed, Beechams cold products, Nurofen Cold and Flu variants).
Furthermore, do not combine with other sedating antihistamines (chlorphenamine, promethazine, cyclizine) or with non-sedating antihistamines during the day.
However, plain ibuprofen for extra pain or inflammation can be taken alongside, provided you follow ibuprofen's own directions.
If in doubt, ask the pharmacist before combining any cold, flu, pain, or allergy medicines.
Warnings and precautions for Benylin Day and Night Tablets
MHRA safety alert: PRES and RCVS (rare but serious)
Above all, the MHRA issued a safety alert in February 2024 for pseudoephedrine-containing medicines. Rare but serious cases of PRES and RCVS have been reported.
Firstly, PRES stands for posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. RCVS stands for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome.
Also, both conditions involve reduced blood supply to the brain. Symptoms include sudden severe headache, seizures, sudden confusion, visual disturbances, or slurred speech.
However, if any of these symptoms develop while taking the tablets, stop immediately. Seek urgent medical assessment (call 999 for severe symptoms).
Ischaemic colitis (rare but serious)
Ischaemic colitis has been reported with pseudoephedrine. This is a condition where reduced blood flow damages part of the large bowel.
Firstly, symptoms include sudden abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, bloody stools, or unusual bowel changes.
However, if these develop while taking the tablets, stop immediately and seek medical assessment.
AGEP (rare severe skin reaction)
Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a rare but serious skin reaction reported with pseudoephedrine-containing products.
Also, AGEP usually appears within the first 2 days of treatment. Features include fever with numerous small pustules on widespread reddened skin.
However, if a severe rash appears while taking the tablets, stop them and seek urgent medical assessment.
Drowsiness (night tablet), driving, and machinery
The blue night tablet causes significant drowsiness from the diphenhydramine. Firstly, do not drive, ride a bicycle, or use machinery after taking the night tablet.
Also, sedation can persist into the following morning for some patients. Caution with next-day driving is warranted if you notice residual drowsiness.
However, driving while impaired by prescription or OTC medicines is a criminal offence in the UK. This is under the Road Traffic Act 1988.
As a result, take the night tablet only when you can commit to being off the road until you are fully alert.
Cardiovascular contraindications
Benylin Day and Night is contraindicated in severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe coronary artery disease, and heart disease. It is also contraindicated after a stroke or transient ischaemic attack.
Firstly, pseudoephedrine's vasoconstricting effect can worsen all of these conditions. Rarely, it can precipitate serious events like hypertensive crisis, myocardial infarction, or stroke.
However, if you take any regular medicine for high blood pressure or heart conditions, disclose this when buying Benylin Day and Night.
Diabetes (contraindicated)
Benylin Day and Night is contraindicated in diabetes. Pseudoephedrine can raise blood glucose levels through its sympathomimetic effects.
However, if you have diabetes and need cold or flu symptom relief, ask the pharmacist for safer options.
Hyperthyroidism (contraindicated)
Patients with an overactive thyroid should not use these tablets. Sympathomimetic drugs can compound the effects of excess thyroid hormone.
Also, this can rarely trigger serious cardiovascular events.
Angle-closure glaucoma (contraindicated)
These tablets are contraindicated in narrow-angle glaucoma. Both pseudoephedrine and diphenhydramine can precipitate an acute glaucoma attack in susceptible patients.
Prostatic hypertrophy (contraindicated)
Contraindicated in prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention. Both actives can worsen urinary retention through different mechanisms.
Phaeochromocytoma (contraindicated)
Contraindicated in phaeochromocytoma (a rare tumour that affects heart rate and blood pressure). Pseudoephedrine can precipitate serious cardiovascular events in these patients.
MAOI antidepressants and beta-blockers (contraindicated)
Above all, do not take these tablets if you are on an MAOI antidepressant, or within 14 days of stopping one.
Also, MAOIs include phenelzine (Nardil), isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine (Parnate), and moclobemide (Manerix). Linezolid (an antibiotic) has MAOI-like activity.
Furthermore, do not combine with beta-blockers (propranolol, atenolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol). The combination with pseudoephedrine can cause paradoxical high blood pressure.
Paracetamol overdose and HAGMA
Paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage. Doses just above the maximum can be harmful.
Also, high anion gap metabolic acidosis (HAGMA) due to pyroglutamic acidosis has been reported in patients with severe illness, severe renal impairment, sepsis, or malnutrition, treated with paracetamol.
However, if you have any of these conditions, discuss with the pharmacist or GP before use.
Severe renal or hepatic impairment (caution)
Use with caution in severe kidney or liver disease. Paracetamol is metabolised by the liver, and severe impairment raises toxicity risk.
Also, pseudoephedrine is excreted by the kidneys, so accumulation can occur in severe renal impairment. Diphenhydramine metabolism is affected by liver function.
Alcohol (compounded sedation)
Avoid alcohol while taking these tablets. Firstly, alcohol compounds the sedating effect of the night tablet's diphenhydramine.
Also, alcohol raises the risk of paracetamol-related liver injury, particularly with regular use.
Furthermore, alcohol has its own cardiovascular effects that can add to pseudoephedrine's blood-pressure-raising effect.
Pregnancy (not recommended)
Benylin Day and Night is not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice. Pseudoephedrine has been linked to a small increased risk of certain birth defects in the first trimester.
However, paracetamol alone at the lowest effective dose is generally preferred for pain and fever in pregnancy. Ask your midwife, GP, or pharmacist.
Breastfeeding (not recommended)
These tablets are not recommended during breastfeeding without medical advice. Pseudoephedrine passes into breast milk and can reduce milk production.
Also, diphenhydramine can pass into milk and cause infant sedation. Ask your midwife, GP, or pharmacist for guidance.
Children under 12 (not for use)
Benylin Day and Night Tablets are not for children under 12 years of age. Younger children need age-appropriate options.
However, for cold and flu symptoms in children under 12, plain paracetamol for pain and fever, plus saline nasal drops for congestion, are the standard options.
Elderly patients (caution)
Use with caution in adults over 60. Firstly, older adults are more sensitive to pseudoephedrine's cardiovascular effects.
Also, they are more susceptible to diphenhydramine's sedative and anticholinergic effects. This includes falls, confusion, urinary retention, and constipation.
However, if these tablets are considered in older adults, discuss with the pharmacist. Safer options usually exist.
Duration of use (short-term only)
Do not take these tablets for more than 3 days without medical advice. Ongoing symptoms need medical assessment.
Also, prolonged pseudoephedrine use can cause tolerance and cardiovascular strain. Prolonged sedating antihistamine use can cause daytime cognitive slowing.
However, if you need symptom relief regularly, see your GP for underlying cause assessment.
Side effects of Benylin Day and Night Tablets
Common side effects
Common side effects come from all three actives. From the pseudoephedrine (day tablet): insomnia if taken too late, mild restlessness, mild headache, palpitations.
Also, from the diphenhydramine (night tablet): drowsiness, dry mouth, dry eyes, mild dizziness, mild constipation.
However, paracetamol at recommended doses is generally well tolerated. Rarely, allergic skin reactions can occur.
Less common but significant side effects
Some side effects need attention. Firstly, palpitations, feeling your heart racing, or a noticeable rise in blood pressure warrant stopping the tablets.
Also, difficulty passing urine (particularly in men over 50) may indicate developing acute urinary retention.
However, next-day drowsiness or cognitive slowing that affects daily function warrants stopping the tablets.
Furthermore, paradoxical excitation (increased alertness or agitation rather than sedation) can occur, particularly in older adults.
Serious side effects requiring urgent help
Above all, seek urgent medical help for signs of PRES or RCVS. These include sudden severe headache, seizures, sudden confusion, visual disturbances, or slurred speech.
Also, seek help for signs of stroke: face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty (FAST). Call 999.
However, severe chest pain, breathlessness, or palpitations need urgent assessment. Signs of hypertensive crisis include very severe headache, chest pain, or trouble breathing.
Furthermore, signs of severe allergic reaction (facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread rash) need 999.
Also, severe skin reactions with pustules, blistering, or peeling need urgent assessment (possible AGEP).
Signs of paracetamol overdose (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, confusion) need urgent assessment even if only slightly above the maximum dose.
Drug interactions with Benylin Day and Night Tablets
MAOI antidepressants (contraindicated)
Above all, do not take these tablets if you are on an MAOI antidepressant, or within 14 days of stopping one.
Also, MAOIs include phenelzine, isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine, and moclobemide. Linezolid (an antibiotic) carries the same concern.
However, combining pseudoephedrine with an MAOI can cause hypertensive crisis. This is a life-threatening rise in blood pressure.
Beta-blockers (contraindicated)
Do not combine with beta-blockers (propranolol, atenolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol, and others). Firstly, the combination with pseudoephedrine can cause paradoxical high blood pressure.
Also, this is because beta-blockade leaves pseudoephedrine's alpha-adrenergic vasoconstricting effect unopposed.
Other pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, or decongestant products
Do not take alongside any other product containing pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine, ephedrine, or another systemic decongestant.
Also, this includes Sudafed products, Actifed, Beechams cold products, Day Nurse, Lemsip, and Nurofen Cold and Flu variants.
However, this also includes topical decongestant nasal sprays (xylometazoline, oxymetazoline).
Other paracetamol products
Above all, do not combine with other paracetamol-containing products. This includes plain paracetamol, Panadol, Anadin Extra, Lemsip Max, Beechams All-in-One, Day Nurse, Night Nurse, co-codamol, and co-dydramol.
Also, paracetamol overdose from combined products is a common cause of accidental liver damage. Always check ingredient labels.
Other sedating antihistamines
Do not combine the night tablet with other sedating antihistamines (chlorphenamine, promethazine, cyclizine). This compounds sedation and anticholinergic effects.
Also, avoid non-sedating antihistamines (loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine) during the day without pharmacist advice.
Alcohol and CNS depressants
Avoid alcohol while taking these tablets. Alcohol compounds sedation from the night tablet's diphenhydramine.
Also, other CNS depressants add to sedation and (rarely) breathing depression risk. Examples include benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam), Z-drugs (zolpidem, zopiclone), and opioid painkillers (morphine, oxycodone, tramadol, codeine).
Warfarin (long-term paracetamol interaction)
Regular paracetamol use can enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, raising INR and bleeding risk.
However, occasional use of paracetamol is usually acceptable. Discuss with your anticoagulation clinic if you take warfarin regularly.
Metoclopramide, domperidone, and cholestyramine
Metoclopramide and domperidone speed up paracetamol absorption. Cholestyramine slows it down.
However, these interactions are usually clinically minor. Ask your pharmacist if you take any of these medicines regularly.
Tricyclic antidepressants
Use with caution with tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline, nortriptyline, imipramine, clomipramine).
Also, tricyclics can enhance the pressor effect of pseudoephedrine, raising blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmia risk.
However, tricyclics also add to diphenhydramine's anticholinergic effects in the night tablet.
Ergot alkaloids (migraine medicines)
Do not combine with ergot-derived migraine medicines (ergotamine tartrate, dihydroergotamine, methysergide).
Also, both classes cause vasoconstriction. The combination can cause severe peripheral vasoconstriction with ischaemic complications.
Frequently asked questions about Benylin Day and Night Tablets
How quickly do these tablets work?
The paracetamol usually starts to reduce pain and fever within 30 to 60 minutes. The pseudoephedrine relieves congestion within about 30 minutes.
However, the diphenhydramine in the night tablet takes about 30 to 60 minutes to cause drowsiness. Take the night tablet about 30 minutes before bedtime.
Can I take the blue night tablet during the day?
No. The blue tablet contains a sedating antihistamine (diphenhydramine). Taking it during the day would cause unwanted drowsiness.
Also, do not drive, use machinery, or need to stay alert if you have taken the blue tablet.
Can I take more than 3 white tablets in a day?
No. The maximum is 3 white tablets in 24 hours (morning, midday, afternoon) plus 1 blue tablet at bedtime.
However, exceeding this raises the paracetamol dose above safe limits. Paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage.
Will the tablets make me drowsy?
The white day tablets are non-drowsy. The blue night tablet is sedating from the diphenhydramine.
However, some daytime residual drowsiness can persist after the night tablet. Do not drive until you are fully alert.
Can I drive after taking these tablets?
Yes, after the white day tablets. No, after the blue night tablet.
Also, driving while impaired by prescription or OTC medicines is a criminal offence in the UK under the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Can I take these with alcohol?
No. Alcohol substantially compounds the sedating effect of the night tablet. It also raises the risk of paracetamol-related liver injury.
However, plain water is the safe companion. Avoid alcohol until at least 24 hours after your last dose.
Can I take these with other cold and flu products?
No, do not combine without pharmacist advice. Firstly, most cold and flu products contain paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, or an antihistamine. Combining overloads the doses.
However, plain ibuprofen for extra pain or inflammation can be taken alongside, following ibuprofen's own directions.
Can I take these if I take antidepressants?
Discuss with the pharmacist first. If you take an MAOI antidepressant, these tablets are contraindicated (can cause hypertensive crisis).
Also, tricyclic antidepressants compound the cardiovascular and anticholinergic effects. Some SSRIs may add to CNS effects.
Can children take these tablets?
No. Benylin Day and Night Tablets are for adults and adolescents 12 years and over only.
However, for cold and flu symptoms in children under 12, plain paracetamol at age-appropriate dose plus saline nasal drops are the standard options.
Can I take these during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Not without medical advice. These tablets are not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
However, paracetamol alone at the lowest effective dose is generally preferred for pain and fever. Saline nasal spray works for congestion. Ask your midwife, GP, or pharmacist.
How long can I take these tablets for?
Do not take these tablets for more than 3 days without medical advice. Ongoing symptoms need medical assessment.
What are PRES and RCVS?
PRES stands for posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. RCVS stands for reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome.
Also, both are rare brain-blood-vessel conditions highlighted by the MHRA in 2024 for pseudoephedrine-containing medicines.
However, symptoms include sudden severe headache, seizures, sudden confusion, visual disturbance, or slurred speech. If any develop, stop the tablets and seek urgent medical assessment.
What is ischaemic colitis?
Ischaemic colitis is a condition where reduced blood flow damages part of the large bowel. It has been rarely reported with pseudoephedrine.
Also, symptoms include sudden abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and bloody stools. Stop the tablets and seek medical assessment if these develop.
What's the difference between this and Night Nurse?
Night Nurse Capsules contain paracetamol 500mg + promethazine 10mg + dextromethorphan 7.5mg. They are for nighttime use only.
Also, the Benylin Day and Night pack provides both day and night dosing in one product. The night tablet has diphenhydramine (not promethazine) as the sedating antihistamine.
However, Benylin day tablets contain pseudoephedrine (a decongestant), which Night Nurse does not. Choose based on symptoms and whether you need daytime cover.
Can I take these if I have high blood pressure?
No, uncontrolled or severe high blood pressure is a contraindication.
However, if your blood pressure is well-controlled and mild, discuss with the pharmacist. Safer options may exist for you.
Can I take these if I have diabetes?
No, these tablets are contraindicated in diabetes. Pseudoephedrine can raise blood glucose levels.
However, for cold and flu symptoms in diabetes, plain paracetamol for pain and fever, plus saline nasal spray for congestion, are safer options.
Are these tablets addictive?
They are not addictive in the way opioid painkillers can be. Firstly, at therapeutic doses, none of the three actives cause chemical dependence.
However, tolerance to the sedative effect of diphenhydramine can develop with regular use. Stick to short-term use.
What if I've taken too many tablets?
Contact NHS 111 or A&E immediately. Firstly, paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage even at doses just above the maximum.
Also, pseudoephedrine overdose can cause severe cardiovascular effects and CNS stimulation. Diphenhydramine overdose can cause severe sedation, breathing depression, and (rarely) seizures.
However, take the packaging with you so medical staff can see exactly what and how much you have taken.
Do I need a prescription for these tablets from Courier Pharmacy?
No. Benylin Day and Night Tablets are a pharmacy medicine (P), not prescription-only.
However, this means they can be supplied without a prescription but only via a pharmacy with pharmacist involvement. UK pack size limits also apply.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow the packaging directions, and ask your pharmacist or GP if you're unsure whether Benylin Day and Night Tablets are suitable for you.
