What are Beechams Powders Cold & Flu Relief Sachets?

Beechams Powders Cold & Flu Relief Sachets are a form of treatment that helps to relieve symptoms caused by a cold or flu. These sachets contain two active ingredients that help to treat the illness. These are:

• Aspirin
• Caffeine

Aspirin is a drug that is used to treat pain, fevers, and inflammation. Aspirin is what is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs all help to reduce pain and inflammation in the body. Aspirin is also used as a treatment for headaches and migraines. The other active ingredient in the sachets is caffeine. Caffeine helps to reduce fatigue and is a mild stimulant.

What’s the difference between a cold and the flu?

Both a cold and flu are caused by a virus. There are more types of cold virus, of which there are many, and the flu, which there are significantly fewer of. A cold is generally milder than flu but the symptoms are similar. A cold will also appear more gradually instead of the flu which comes within a few hours. Cold symptoms generally only affect your nose and throat and you can do things you normally would without being infected. Whereas with the flu you will feel tired and feel too ill to do anything.

Who are these sachets suitable for?

The Beechams sachets are suitable to be used by adults and children aged 16 and over who are suffering from the effects of a cold or flu. Anyone who is allergic to the ingredients contained in the sachets should not use them. Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to ibuprofen or soya should also not use them. You should also not use these sachets if:

• You have or had asthma or shortness of breath because of aspirin
• If you suffer from high blood pressure or heart disease
• You have ever had a stomach ulcer or bleeding in the stomach
• Ever had any blood clotting disorder
• Had liver or kidney disease

If you are currently using any other form of medication, speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using.

Can these Beechams sachets be used by someone who is pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not use these Beechams sachets unless you have been advised to do so by a doctor.

How should Beechams Powders Cold & Flu Relief be used?

Mix the powder in a sachet with some water and stir before drinking. Use one sachet every 3-4 hours but do not use more than six powders in a 24-hour period. Do not use for more than 10 days or three days for a fever. If symptoms are still felt or visible, then speak to a doctor.

Are there any side effects?

With these sachets, there are some potential side effects, which include:

• Stomach ulceration or perforation – symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
• A skin rash
• Swollen face
• Tightening in the chest
• Bruising or bleeding
• Nervousness and dizziness

If you notice any of these side effects or any other side effect, then stop using and speak to a doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible. You can also record any side effect that you notice using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

More Information

This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk

If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.

Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.

Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.

Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.

Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction

For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here.

If you are concerned about addiction to ‘over the counter’ medication, we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice:

• NHS Help & Advice on Drug Addiction
• Talk To Frank – Drug Addiction Help & Support