Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets are oral tablets. Each pack contains 15 tablets.
Each tablet contains two active ingredients. Paracetamol 500mg is an analgesic and antipyretic. Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30mg is a decongestant.
Firstly, the manufacturer is McNeil Products Ltd (a Kenvue subsidiary). Sinutab is a long-established UK sinus and cold brand.
Also, the pack size sits well within UK pseudoephedrine pack limits. A 15-tablet pack provides 450mg total pseudoephedrine, below the 720mg cap.
How the two actives work together
Sinus symptoms during a cold or flu often combine congestion with sinus pressure, headache, and sometimes fever. Two actives target both mechanisms.
Firstly, paracetamol addresses pain, headache, and fever. It acts mainly on the central nervous system.
Also, pseudoephedrine narrows blood vessels in the nasal and sinus lining. This reduces swelling and opens blocked passages.
As a result, one tablet targets both the mechanical blockage of a stuffy nose and the pain and fever that often come with it.
However, Sinutab does not contain an antihistamine. So it does not address runny nose or sneezing (which are histamine-driven). It also does not cause drowsiness.
Why non-drowsy matters
Many combined cold and flu products contain a sedating antihistamine. This causes drowsiness that can be unwanted during the day.
Firstly, Sinutab Non-Drowsy contains no antihistamine. This is why the product name emphasises this feature.
Also, this suits patients who need to drive, work, study, or care for others while treating cold and flu symptoms.
However, if you need help sleeping through symptoms at night, a sedating alternative (Night Nurse, Benylin Day and Night night tablet) may fit better for bedtime use.
A pharmacy medicine with pack size restrictions
Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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. Pharmacies usually limit purchases to one pack per transaction.
Also, this is to prevent bulk buying for illicit methamphetamine manufacture. It does not affect normal medical use.
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
Active ingredients per tablet: paracetamol 500mg + pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30mg
Form: oral tablets
Pack size: usually 15 tablets (below the 720mg pseudoephedrine pack cap)
Class: combined analgesic, antipyretic, and sympathomimetic decongestant
Legal status: Pharmacy medicine (P), subject to Misuse of Drugs Regulations pack size limits
A non-drowsy tablet for sinus congestion with pain or fever
Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets are a well-known UK cold, flu, and sinus remedy. Each tablet contains two active ingredients that work together.
Firstly, paracetamol 500mg is an analgesic and antipyretic. It relieves headache, sinus pain, facial pain, and reduces fever.
Also, pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30mg is a decongestant. It helps unblock a stuffy nose and open blocked sinuses.
However, unlike Benylin 4 Flu or the night tablet in Benylin Day and Night, Sinutab Non-Drowsy contains no antihistamine. This is why it is non-drowsy.
Also, this suits patients who need daytime relief and cannot afford to feel drowsy. It fits driving, working, and staying alert.
Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets are for adults and children 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, paracetamol carries its own risks. Overdose can cause serious liver damage even at doses just above the maximum.
At Courier Pharmacy, our team can help you decide whether Sinutab Non-Drowsy fits your symptoms and situation.
When to see a doctor rather than self-treat
Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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 even if you feel well
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
Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets contain paracetamol 500mg + pseudoephedrine 30mg per tablet. No antihistamine, so no drowsiness.
Licensed for adults and children 12+ for nasal and sinus congestion with pain or fever from colds, flu, sinusitis, and allergic rhinitis.
Dose: adults and children 16+ take 2 tablets every 4-6 hours (max 8/24h). Children 12-15 take 1 tablet every 4-6 hours (max 4/24h).
Contraindicated in children under 12, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, angle-closure glaucoma, and with MAOI antidepressants (current or last 14 days), beta-blockers, or other decongestants.
Do not combine with other paracetamol products, other decongestants, or other cold and flu products. Maximum daily paracetamol from all sources: 4 grams.
What are Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets: overview
Where Sinutab Non-Drowsy fits in cold and flu treatment
Cold and flu produce a mix of symptoms. Options include single-active products (paracetamol, ibuprofen, plain decongestant) and combined products like Sinutab.
Firstly, Sinutab Non-Drowsy’s specific niche is congestion with pain or fever, when drowsiness must be avoided. This fits daytime use for people who need to stay alert.
However, if congestion is the only issue, plain Sudafed Decongestant Tablets or a nasal spray may fit better. If pain and fever dominate without congestion, plain paracetamol may suffice.
Also, if you need cough or runny nose relief too, a product with an antihistamine (Benylin 4 Flu, Benylin Day and Night night tablet) may cover more symptoms.
Sinutab Non-Drowsy vs Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain
Both products contain the same pseudoephedrine dose (30mg). Both are non-drowsy and cover congestion with pain or fever.
Firstly, the key difference is the analgesic. Sinutab uses paracetamol 500mg. Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain uses ibuprofen 200mg.
Also, this makes Sinutab safer in patients who cannot take ibuprofen (asthma with NSAID sensitivity, peptic ulcer, severe kidney disease, some cardiovascular conditions).
However, ibuprofen has stronger anti-inflammatory effects than paracetamol. It may be more effective when inflammation drives the sinus pain.
Furthermore, Sinutab is licensed from age 12; Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain from age 15 (due to the ibuprofen). Choose based on medical history and age.
Sinutab Non-Drowsy vs Benylin 4 Flu
Both products contain paracetamol and pseudoephedrine. However, Benylin 4 Flu adds diphenhydramine (a sedating antihistamine).
Firstly, Sinutab Non-Drowsy is non-drowsy. Benylin 4 Flu can cause drowsiness.
Also, Benylin 4 Flu covers more symptoms (cough, sneezing, runny nose) due to the antihistamine. Sinutab covers only congestion, pain, and fever.
However, if drowsiness is unacceptable and you don’t need cough or runny nose relief, Sinutab Non-Drowsy fits better.
Sinutab Non-Drowsy vs Benylin Day and Night day tablet
Both are non-drowsy paracetamol + pseudoephedrine combinations. However, the pseudoephedrine dose differs.
Firstly, Sinutab has 30mg pseudoephedrine per tablet (adults take 2 tablets = 60mg per dose).
Also, Benylin Day and Night’s day tablet has 60mg pseudoephedrine per tablet (adults take 1 tablet = 60mg per dose).
However, the effective pseudoephedrine dose per intake is similar. Benylin Day and Night is a two-tablet pack (day + night); Sinutab is a single-tablet product.
Short-term use only
Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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 and can cause tolerance.
Also, prolonged paracetamol use raises liver strain, particularly with alcohol or existing liver problems.
However, chronic sinus symptoms have their own management. Ask your GP if symptoms recur or persist.
Self-medication with pharmacist support
Because Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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 or a GP appointment).
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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 Sinutab, 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 Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets from Courier Pharmacy
Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets are a pharmacy medicine (P). You can order at courierpharmacy.co.uk in the 15-tablet pack.
Add Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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, Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain, 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 combined tablet containing paracetamol (pain and fever) and pseudoephedrine (decongestant).
Adult and 16+ dose: 2 tablets every 4-6 hours (max 8/24h). Children 12-15: 1 tablet every 4-6 hours (max 4/24h). Max 3 days without medical advice.
Non-drowsy. Contains no antihistamine, so no sedation and no anticholinergic side effects.
Contraindicated with MAOI antidepressants (current or last 14 days), diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, phaeochromocytoma, and glaucoma.
Subject to UK Misuse of Drugs Regulations pack size limits, usually one pack per transaction.
Active ingredients in Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets
Paracetamol 500mg
Paracetamol is a widely-used analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer).
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 per tablet (1000mg per adult dose of 2 tablets), paracetamol provides 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. Sinutab Non-Drowsy at maximum dose provides 4000mg per 24 hours.
Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30mg
Pseudoephedrine is a synthetic sympathomimetic drug. It acts primarily on alpha-adrenergic receptors on blood vessels.
Firstly, at the 30mg dose per tablet (60mg per adult dose of 2 tablets), it works as an oral decongestant. It narrows blood vessels in the nasal and sinus lining.
Also, this reduces mucosal swelling and opens the nasal passages. Sinus drainage improves too.
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.
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.
Why the paracetamol-pseudoephedrine combination fits sinus symptoms
Sinus symptoms come from two mechanisms. Blocked sinuses cause pressure, headache, and pain. Inflammation and infection can cause fever.
Firstly, pseudoephedrine addresses the vascular congestion that blocks sinus drainage. This reduces the pressure and helps airflow.
Also, paracetamol addresses the pain and fever. It works centrally and does not affect the stomach or platelets like NSAIDs.
As a result, one tablet targets both the mechanical blockage of stuffy sinuses and the pain and fever that often come with sinusitis.
What are Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets for?
Nasal and sinus congestion with pain from colds and flu
Sinutab Non-Drowsy is licensed for symptomatic relief of upper respiratory tract congestion (nasal mucosa and sinuses) when accompanied by mild to moderate pain or fever.
Firstly, this covers the common cold and influenza. The paracetamol addresses cold and flu aches, headache, and fever. The pseudoephedrine addresses the blocked nose.
However, Sinutab does not treat the underlying viral infection. Colds usually resolve on their own in 7 to 10 days.
Sinusitis with pain and pressure
Blocked sinuses cause facial pressure, headache, and (sometimes) pain over the cheeks or forehead. Sinutab is well-suited to this symptom picture.
Firstly, the pseudoephedrine reduces swelling that blocks sinus drainage. Also, the paracetamol addresses the pain and any fever.
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.
Allergic and vasomotor rhinitis with congestion
The SmPC also lists allergic rhinitis and vasomotor rhinitis as indications, when congestion is a major feature.
Firstly, pseudoephedrine addresses the congestion component. However, for allergic rhinitis, first-line treatment is usually a non-sedating antihistamine (loratadine, cetirizine, fexofenadine).
Also, an intranasal corticosteroid spray (fluticasone, beclometasone) is a better option for regular allergy sufferers.
What Sinutab Non-Drowsy isn't for
This product is not for chronic sinus problems, cough, sore throat, or symptoms without congestion or pain.
Also, it is not for children under 12, or 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 does Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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's alpha-adrenergic action
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 has mild CNS stimulant effects. These can help with the fatigue of a cold but can also disturb sleep if taken too late.
Why non-drowsy suits daytime use
Sinutab Non-Drowsy contains no antihistamine. This means no sedation from the tablet.
Firstly, pseudoephedrine is a mild stimulant, not a sedative. It supports alertness rather than causing drowsiness.
Also, paracetamol is neither sedating nor stimulating at therapeutic doses.
As a result, Sinutab Non-Drowsy fits patients who need to drive, work, study, or stay alert while treating symptoms.
Why the combination works for sinus symptoms
Sinus symptoms come from two overlapping mechanisms. Blocked sinuses are a vascular and swelling problem. Pain and fever are inflammation-driven.
Firstly, a single-active decongestant relieves blockage but does not address pain. A single-active analgesic relieves pain but not blockage.
However, the Sinutab combination targets both mechanisms in one tablet. This suits patients whose symptoms include both.
How to take Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets
Adult and 16+ dose
Take 2 tablets with water every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not take more than 4 doses (8 tablets) in any 24-hour period.
Also, leave at least 4 hours between doses. At the maximum daily dose, you receive 4g paracetamol and 240mg pseudoephedrine per 24 hours.
However, do not take Sinutab Non-Drowsy for more than 3 days without medical advice.
Children 12-15 years dose
Take 1 tablet with water every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not take more than 4 doses (4 tablets) in any 24-hour period.
Also, leave at least 4 hours between doses. At maximum, this gives 2g paracetamol and 120mg pseudoephedrine per 24 hours.
Children under 12 (not for use)
Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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, paediatric paracetamol (Calpol) or ibuprofen for pain and fever, plus saline nasal drops for congestion, are the standard options.
How quickly it works
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 both actives is reached at about 1 to 2 hours. The effect usually lasts around 4 to 6 hours per dose.
Timing during the day
Sinutab Non-Drowsy is non-drowsy, so timing is flexible. Firstly, morning and afternoon doses generally work well.
However, the pseudoephedrine has mild central nervous system stimulant effects. Avoid a dose close to bedtime as this could disturb sleep.
Also, if you take an evening dose, leave several hours before bedtime.
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 or decongestants
Above all, do not take Sinutab Non-Drowsy alongside any other product containing paracetamol. This includes plain paracetamol tablets, Panadol, Anadin Extra, Lemsip, Beechams All-in-One, Day Nurse, Night Nurse, Benylin Day and Night, Benylin 4 Flu, 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).
However, plain ibuprofen for extra pain or inflammation can be taken alongside, following ibuprofen's own directions.
If in doubt, ask the pharmacist before combining any cold, flu, or pain medicines.
Warnings and precautions for Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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.
Cardiovascular contraindications
Sinutab Non-Drowsy is contraindicated in severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe coronary artery disease, and heart disease.
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 before buying.
Diabetes (contraindicated)
Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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.
Angle-closure glaucoma (contraindicated)
These tablets are contraindicated in narrow-angle glaucoma. Pseudoephedrine can precipitate an acute glaucoma attack in susceptible patients.
Prostatic hypertrophy (contraindicated)
Contraindicated in prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention. Pseudoephedrine can worsen urinary retention.
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, isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine, and moclobemide. Rasagiline and selegiline (Parkinson's medicines) carry the same concern.
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.
Alcohol (caution)
Limit alcohol while taking these tablets. Firstly, alcohol raises the risk of paracetamol-related liver injury, particularly with regular use.
Also, alcohol has its own cardiovascular effects that can add to pseudoephedrine's blood-pressure-raising effect.
Pregnancy (not recommended)
Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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.
However, paracetamol alone is generally the preferred option for pain and fever relief while breastfeeding. Ask your midwife, GP, or pharmacist for guidance.
Elderly patients (caution)
Use with caution in adults over 60. Firstly, older adults are more sensitive to pseudoephedrine's cardiovascular effects.
Also, paracetamol clearance is somewhat reduced in older adults, though normal adult dosing is usually appropriate.
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 paracetamol use raises liver strain.
Side effects of Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets
Common side effects
Common side effects come mainly from the pseudoephedrine. These include insomnia if taken too late, mild restlessness, mild headache, and mild palpitations.
Also, mild nausea or stomach upset can occur from either active.
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, unusual bruising or bleeding may indicate a rare paracetamol-related blood disorder. Seek medical advice.
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.
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.
Furthermore, rasagiline and selegiline (used for Parkinson's disease) have MAOI-like activity and should not be combined.
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, Benylin 4 Flu, 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, Benylin Day and Night, Benylin 4 Flu, co-codamol, and co-dydramol.
Also, paracetamol overdose from combined products is a common cause of accidental liver damage. Always check ingredient labels.
Warfarin (long-term paracetamol interaction)
Regular paracetamol use can enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, raising INR and bleeding risk.
However, occasional use 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.
Alcohol
Limit alcohol while taking these tablets. Firstly, alcohol raises the risk of paracetamol-related liver injury.
Also, alcohol has its own cardiovascular effects that can add to pseudoephedrine's blood-pressure-raising effect.
Frequently asked questions about Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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.
Also, peak effect for both actives is reached at about 1 to 2 hours. The effect usually lasts around 4 to 6 hours per dose.
Will Sinutab Non-Drowsy make me drowsy?
No. Sinutab Non-Drowsy contains no antihistamine and no sedating ingredient.
However, the pseudoephedrine is mildly stimulating. This can help with the fatigue of a cold but can also disturb sleep if taken too late in the day.
Can I drive after taking these tablets?
Yes, generally. Neither paracetamol nor pseudoephedrine impairs driving in the typical way sedating medicines do.
However, if you notice any unusual side effects (dizziness, palpitations), do not drive until they resolve.
Can I take these with paracetamol?
No. Sinutab Non-Drowsy already contains paracetamol 500mg per tablet. Adding more paracetamol from another product can lead to overdose and serious liver damage.
However, always check the ingredients of any other pain or cold medicine before combining with Sinutab Non-Drowsy.
Can I take these with ibuprofen?
Yes, generally. Ibuprofen and paracetamol work through different mechanisms and can be combined for extra pain relief.
However, always follow ibuprofen's own dose directions. Do not take another product that also contains ibuprofen or another NSAID.
Can I take these with other cold and flu products?
No, do not combine with other cold and flu remedies without pharmacist advice. Firstly, most contain paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, or phenylephrine. 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 effects. Some SSRIs may add to CNS effects.
Can children take these tablets?
Children aged 12-15 can take 1 tablet every 4-6 hours (max 4 in 24 hours). Adults and children 16+ take 2 tablets every 4-6 hours (max 8 in 24 hours).
However, Sinutab Non-Drowsy is not for children under 12. Younger children need paediatric paracetamol at age-adjusted doses.
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 in pregnancy and breastfeeding. 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 Sinutab Non-Drowsy and Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain?
Both contain the same pseudoephedrine dose (30mg). Both are non-drowsy and cover congestion with pain.
However, Sinutab uses paracetamol 500mg. Sudafed Sinus Pressure and Pain uses ibuprofen 200mg.
Also, Sinutab is safer in patients who cannot take ibuprofen (asthma with NSAID sensitivity, peptic ulcer, kidney disease). Sinutab is age 12+; Sudafed Sinus is age 15+.
What's the difference between Sinutab Non-Drowsy and Benylin 4 Flu?
Both contain paracetamol and pseudoephedrine. However, Benylin 4 Flu also contains diphenhydramine (a sedating antihistamine).
Also, Sinutab is non-drowsy and covers only congestion, pain, and fever. Benylin 4 Flu is drowsy but also covers cough, sneezing, and runny nose.
Can I take Sinutab Non-Drowsy if I have high blood pressure or diabetes?
No, these tablets are contraindicated in both conditions. Pseudoephedrine can worsen blood pressure and raise blood glucose.
However, safer options exist. For pain relief in these patients, plain paracetamol is safer. For congestion, saline nasal spray or a topical decongestant may fit.
Are these tablets addictive?
No. Neither paracetamol nor pseudoephedrine cause chemical dependence at therapeutic doses.
However, prolonged use of any analgesic can lead to medication-overuse headache. 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.
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. Sinutab Non-Drowsy 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 Sinutab Non-Drowsy Tablets are suitable for you.
