The Story
Are Benylin Day and Night Tablets Right for Your Cold?
When a cold or flu hits, it rarely sticks to office hours. You need something that works while you're trying to get through the day — and something that lets you actually sleep at night. Benylin Day and Night tablets are designed to do exactly that, offering targeted relief around the clock in a single convenient pack. Each pack of 16 tablets contains two different formulations: day tablets to keep you functional and night tablets to help you rest. At just £4.99, it's a straightforward option for adults and young people aged 12 and over who want to tackle cold and flu symptoms without juggling multiple products. If you're looking for broader cold and flu support, you can also browse our full cold and flu range.
Cold symptoms — blocked nose, headache, aches, and that general feeling of being run down — are caused by viral upper respiratory tract infections. The NHS notes that most colds clear up within 7 to 10 days, but symptomatic relief can make a real difference to how you feel in the meantime. Benylin Day and Night tablets address several of those symptoms simultaneously, which is why they remain one of the more popular over-the-counter options in UK pharmacies.
How Do Benylin Day and Night Tablets Work?
The two-tablet system works because daytime and night-time needs are genuinely different. Here's how each formulation acts:
- Day tablets contain paracetamol (500 mg) and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (60 mg). Paracetamol reduces fever and relieves headache and body aches. Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic decongestant — it causes vasoconstriction in the nasal mucosa, reducing swelling and easing that blocked-up feeling.
- Night tablets contain paracetamol (500 mg) and diphenhydramine hydrochloride (25 mg). Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine with sedative properties, helping you drift off when cold symptoms would otherwise keep you awake.
- Both tablet types address pain and fever through the same paracetamol mechanism — inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system.
It's worth noting that pseudoephedrine works locally on nasal blood vessels rather than acting as a general stimulant at standard doses, though it can still raise blood pressure in susceptible individuals.
Who Should Use Benylin Day and Night Tablets?
This product is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms. It's particularly useful if your symptoms include nasal congestion alongside headache, fever, or aches — and if disrupted sleep is making recovery harder. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone.
- Adults and young people aged 12 and over with cold or flu symptoms
- Those experiencing nasal congestion, headache, fever, or body aches
- People who need daytime symptom control without excessive drowsiness
- Those whose sleep is being disrupted by cold symptoms at night
If you're managing other health conditions or taking regular medication, always check with your pharmacist before starting this product. People with high blood pressure, heart conditions, thyroid disorders, or diabetes should be especially cautious due to the pseudoephedrine content.
How Do Benylin Day and Night Tablets Compare to Alternatives?
| Feature | Benylin Day and Night Tablets | Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime active ingredients | Paracetamol + Pseudoephedrine | Paracetamol + Pseudoephedrine |
| Night-time active ingredients | Paracetamol + Diphenhydramine | Paracetamol + Diphenhydramine |
| Formulation | Tablets | Capsules |
| Pack size | 16 tablets (12 day + 4 night) | Typically 24 capsules |
How Should You Store Benylin Day and Night Tablets?
Store Benylin Day and Night tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing pain from other causes, our pain relief collection includes a range of additional options.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Benylin Day and Night 16 Tablets specifications
| Treatment category | Cold and flu relief |
| Mechanism of action | Paracetamol (analgesic/antipyretic); Pseudoephedrine (nasal decongestant); Diphenhydramine (sedating antihistamine) |
| Effective for | Nasal congestion, headache, fever, body aches, disturbed sleep due to cold |
| Suitable for | Adults and young people aged 12 and over |
| Active ingredients (day) | Paracetamol 500 mg, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 60 mg |
| Active ingredients (night) | Paracetamol 500 mg, Diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25 mg |
| Pack size | 16 tablets (12 day tablets + 4 night tablets) |
| UK classification | Pharmacy (P) medicine |
| Drug class | Analgesic / Decongestant / Sedating antihistamine |
| Preparation | Film-coated tablets |
| Route of administration | Oral |
Specifications of Benylin Day and Night 16 Tablets
What Is Benylin Day and Night and What Is It Used For?
Benylin Day and Night tablets are an over-the-counter combination medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu in adults and young people aged 12 and over. The pack contains two distinct tablet types — day tablets and night tablets — each formulated to address your symptoms at the appropriate time of day. Together, they target nasal congestion, headache, fever, and body aches, while the night tablets additionally help you sleep when cold symptoms are at their most disruptive. The NHS advises that most cold symptoms can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and appropriate over-the-counter remedies.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Benylin Day and Night?
Before taking these tablets, it's important to check whether they are suitable for you. Do not take Benylin Day and Night tablets if any of the following apply:
- You are allergic to paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, diphenhydramine, or any other ingredient in the tablets
- You are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
- You have severe high blood pressure or severe coronary artery disease
- You have a condition called phaeochromocytoma (a type of adrenal gland tumour)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — speak to your doctor or pharmacist first
- You are under 12 years of age
- You already take other medicines containing paracetamol
Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking these tablets if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, liver or kidney problems, or if you regularly drink alcohol. The pseudoephedrine in the day tablets can raise blood pressure and interact with several medicines.
Known drug interactions include:
- MAOIs — risk of hypertensive crisis; do not use within 14 days of stopping an MAOI
- Other sympathomimetics (e.g. some nasal decongestant sprays) — additive cardiovascular effects
- Tricyclic antidepressants — may increase cardiovascular side effects of pseudoephedrine
- Sedatives, hypnotics, or alcohol — enhanced sedative effect from diphenhydramine in night tablets
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants — prolonged use of paracetamol may affect INR
How Should You Use Benylin Day and Night Tablets?
Always follow the dosage instructions on the pack or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Here's how to take the tablets correctly:
- Take two day tablets during the daytime — swallow whole with a glass of water
- Repeat the two day tablets after 4 to 6 hours if needed
- Do not take more than four day tablets in any 24-hour period
- At bedtime, take two night tablets — swallow whole with water
- Do not take more than two night tablets in any 24-hour period
- Do not take day and night tablets at the same time
| Tablet Type | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day tablets | Adults and young people aged 12+ | 2 tablets | Every 4–6 hours, max 4 tablets in 24 hours |
| Night tablets | Adults and young people aged 12+ | 2 tablets | Once at bedtime only, max 2 tablets in 24 hours |
| Day or night tablets | Under 12 years | Not suitable — do not use | |
Do not use for more than 5 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. If you're also dealing with ear, nose, or throat symptoms beyond a standard cold, our ear, nose and throat range may have additional products to support you.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Benylin Day and Night?
Like all medicines, Benylin Day and Night tablets can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The night tablets are more likely to cause side effects due to the diphenhydramine content.
Common side effects:
- Drowsiness (particularly from the night tablets)
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Difficulty urinating
- Nausea
Less common side effects:
- Palpitations or increased heart rate (more likely with day tablets due to pseudoephedrine)
- Headache
- Restlessness or excitability (particularly in older adults taking diphenhydramine)
- Blurred vision
- Skin rash or allergic reaction
Stop taking the tablets and seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. The NHS advises calling 999 or going to A&E in such cases.
How Should You Store Benylin Day and Night Tablets?
Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of the tablets. Follow these guidelines:
- Store below 25°C in a dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
- Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink where humidity is high
- Return unused or expired medicines to your pharmacist for safe disposal — do not flush down the toilet or throw in household waste
If you're supporting your recovery with additional supplements, our vitamins and supplements range includes options such as vitamin C and zinc that are commonly used during cold season.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/common-cold/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/paracetamol-for-adults/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/decongestants/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antihistamines/
- https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1051/smpc
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Benylin Day and Night tablets online in the UK?
You can buy Benylin Day and Night tablets online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £4.99. They are also available from most high street pharmacies and larger supermarkets without a prescription. As a Pharmacy (P) medicine, they may require a brief suitability check before purchase online.
How do Benylin Day and Night tablets work in the body?
The day tablets combine paracetamol — which reduces fever and relieves pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis — with pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that narrows blood vessels in the nasal lining to ease congestion. The night tablets swap pseudoephedrine for diphenhydramine, a sedating antihistamine that helps you sleep while paracetamol continues to manage pain and fever. Together, the two formulations provide targeted relief at the right time of day.
How do I take Benylin Day and Night tablets step by step?
Take two day tablets during the daytime with a glass of water, repeating every 4 to 6 hours as needed — but no more than four day tablets in 24 hours. At bedtime, take two night tablets only once. Never take day and night tablets simultaneously, and always swallow them whole rather than chewing or crushing them.
What is the best time to take the night tablets in Benylin Day and Night?
Take the two night tablets immediately before you go to bed, as diphenhydramine causes drowsiness relatively quickly. Because they will make you sleepy, you should not take them if you still need to drive, operate machinery, or carry out tasks requiring full alertness. Allow at least 8 hours before you need to be fully awake and functional.
Can I take Benylin Day and Night tablets with other cold medicines?
No — you must not take these tablets alongside any other product containing paracetamol, as this significantly increases the risk of paracetamol overdose, which can cause serious liver damage. This includes many other cold and flu remedies, some headache tablets, and certain prescription medicines. Always check the ingredients of any other medicine you are taking before combining it with Benylin Day and Night tablets.
Are Benylin Day and Night tablets suitable for children?
No, Benylin Day and Night tablets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age. The pseudoephedrine and diphenhydramine in the formulation are not appropriate for younger children, and there are specific paediatric cold remedies available for this age group. If your child is under 12 and has cold symptoms, speak to your pharmacist or GP for suitable alternatives — you can also explore our baby and toddler range for age-appropriate products.
What are the side effects of Benylin Day and Night tablets and how do I manage them?
The most common side effect is drowsiness from the night tablets, which is actually part of their intended action — but it means you should not drive or drink alcohol after taking them. Other side effects can include dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty urinating. If you experience palpitations, a skin rash, or any signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, stop taking the tablets immediately and seek medical attention.
Who should not take Benylin Day and Night tablets?
These tablets are not suitable for people who are allergic to any of the active ingredients, those taking MAOIs or who have taken them within the last 14 days, people with severe high blood pressure or serious heart conditions, and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding without medical advice. People with diabetes, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or thyroid problems should also speak to a pharmacist or GP before use due to the pseudoephedrine content.
What happens if I miss a dose of Benylin Day and Night tablets?
If you miss a dose, simply take the next dose when it is due — do not double up to compensate for a missed one. These tablets are taken as needed for symptom relief rather than on a strict schedule, so missing a single dose is unlikely to affect your overall recovery. Continue following the dosage instructions on the pack and do not exceed the maximum daily dose.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Benylin Day and Night tablets?
You should avoid alcohol while taking these tablets, particularly the night tablets. Alcohol enhances the sedative effect of diphenhydramine, making drowsiness significantly worse and increasing the risk of accidents. Alcohol can also affect how paracetamol is processed by the liver, particularly if you drink regularly or in large amounts — the NHS advises caution with paracetamol in people who drink alcohol regularly.
How long can I take Benylin Day and Night tablets for?
Do not use Benylin Day and Night tablets for more than 5 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. Most colds resolve within 7 to 10 days according to the NHS, so if your symptoms are not improving or are getting worse after 5 days, it's important to seek medical advice as there may be an underlying cause that needs attention. Prolonged use of pseudoephedrine can also cause rebound congestion.
Can I take Benylin Day and Night tablets if I have high blood pressure?
You should speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking these tablets if you have high blood pressure. The pseudoephedrine in the day tablets is a sympathomimetic decongestant that can raise blood pressure, which may be a concern if your blood pressure is already elevated or poorly controlled. Your pharmacist may be able to suggest an alternative decongestant or a paracetamol-only product that is safer for you.
What are the alternatives to Benylin Day and Night tablets?
Common alternatives include Lemsip Max Day and Night capsules, Night Nurse liquid (which contains promethazine rather than diphenhydramine), and separate day and night cold remedies. If your main concern is congestion, a saline nasal spray or a pseudoephedrine-free decongestant may also be appropriate. Browse our cold and flu collection for a full range of options, and ask your pharmacist if you're unsure which product suits your symptoms best.
Is it safe to take Benylin Day and Night tablets during pregnancy?
You should not take these tablets during pregnancy without first speaking to your doctor or midwife. While paracetamol is generally considered the safest painkiller during pregnancy when used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, the pseudoephedrine and diphenhydramine components are not recommended during pregnancy. Your GP or midwife can advise on the safest way to manage cold symptoms if you are pregnant.
What does the latest guidance say about using decongestants like pseudoephedrine?
The NHS and MHRA continue to recognise pseudoephedrine as an effective short-term nasal decongestant when used as directed in adults. However, the MHRA has previously reviewed the safety of oral decongestants and recommends they are used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. People with cardiovascular conditions, hypertension, or those taking interacting medicines should always seek pharmacist advice before use, as the risk-benefit balance may differ from person to person.
Description
Are Benylin Day and Night Tablets Right for Your Cold?
When a cold or flu hits, it rarely sticks to office hours. You need something that works while you're trying to get through the day — and something that lets you actually sleep at night. Benylin Day and Night tablets are designed to do exactly that, offering targeted relief around the clock in a single convenient pack. Each pack of 16 tablets contains two different formulations: day tablets to keep you functional and night tablets to help you rest. At just £4.99, it's a straightforward option for adults and young people aged 12 and over who want to tackle cold and flu symptoms without juggling multiple products. If you're looking for broader cold and flu support, you can also browse our full cold and flu range.
Cold symptoms — blocked nose, headache, aches, and that general feeling of being run down — are caused by viral upper respiratory tract infections. The NHS notes that most colds clear up within 7 to 10 days, but symptomatic relief can make a real difference to how you feel in the meantime. Benylin Day and Night tablets address several of those symptoms simultaneously, which is why they remain one of the more popular over-the-counter options in UK pharmacies.
How Do Benylin Day and Night Tablets Work?
The two-tablet system works because daytime and night-time needs are genuinely different. Here's how each formulation acts:
- Day tablets contain paracetamol (500 mg) and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride (60 mg). Paracetamol reduces fever and relieves headache and body aches. Pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic decongestant — it causes vasoconstriction in the nasal mucosa, reducing swelling and easing that blocked-up feeling.
- Night tablets contain paracetamol (500 mg) and diphenhydramine hydrochloride (25 mg). Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine with sedative properties, helping you drift off when cold symptoms would otherwise keep you awake.
- Both tablet types address pain and fever through the same paracetamol mechanism — inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system.
It's worth noting that pseudoephedrine works locally on nasal blood vessels rather than acting as a general stimulant at standard doses, though it can still raise blood pressure in susceptible individuals.
Who Should Use Benylin Day and Night Tablets?
This product is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms. It's particularly useful if your symptoms include nasal congestion alongside headache, fever, or aches — and if disrupted sleep is making recovery harder. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone.
- Adults and young people aged 12 and over with cold or flu symptoms
- Those experiencing nasal congestion, headache, fever, or body aches
- People who need daytime symptom control without excessive drowsiness
- Those whose sleep is being disrupted by cold symptoms at night
If you're managing other health conditions or taking regular medication, always check with your pharmacist before starting this product. People with high blood pressure, heart conditions, thyroid disorders, or diabetes should be especially cautious due to the pseudoephedrine content.
How Do Benylin Day and Night Tablets Compare to Alternatives?
| Feature | Benylin Day and Night Tablets | Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime active ingredients | Paracetamol + Pseudoephedrine | Paracetamol + Pseudoephedrine |
| Night-time active ingredients | Paracetamol + Diphenhydramine | Paracetamol + Diphenhydramine |
| Formulation | Tablets | Capsules |
| Pack size | 16 tablets (12 day + 4 night) | Typically 24 capsules |
How Should You Store Benylin Day and Night Tablets?
Store Benylin Day and Night tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing pain from other causes, our pain relief collection includes a range of additional options.
This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.
Benylin Day and Night 16 Tablets specifications
| Treatment category | Cold and flu relief |
| Mechanism of action | Paracetamol (analgesic/antipyretic); Pseudoephedrine (nasal decongestant); Diphenhydramine (sedating antihistamine) |
| Effective for | Nasal congestion, headache, fever, body aches, disturbed sleep due to cold |
| Suitable for | Adults and young people aged 12 and over |
| Active ingredients (day) | Paracetamol 500 mg, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 60 mg |
| Active ingredients (night) | Paracetamol 500 mg, Diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25 mg |
| Pack size | 16 tablets (12 day tablets + 4 night tablets) |
| UK classification | Pharmacy (P) medicine |
| Drug class | Analgesic / Decongestant / Sedating antihistamine |
| Preparation | Film-coated tablets |
| Route of administration | Oral |
Specifications of Benylin Day and Night 16 Tablets
What Is Benylin Day and Night and What Is It Used For?
Benylin Day and Night tablets are an over-the-counter combination medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu in adults and young people aged 12 and over. The pack contains two distinct tablet types — day tablets and night tablets — each formulated to address your symptoms at the appropriate time of day. Together, they target nasal congestion, headache, fever, and body aches, while the night tablets additionally help you sleep when cold symptoms are at their most disruptive. The NHS advises that most cold symptoms can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and appropriate over-the-counter remedies.
What Do You Need to Know Before Using Benylin Day and Night?
Before taking these tablets, it's important to check whether they are suitable for you. Do not take Benylin Day and Night tablets if any of the following apply:
- You are allergic to paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, diphenhydramine, or any other ingredient in the tablets
- You are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
- You have severe high blood pressure or severe coronary artery disease
- You have a condition called phaeochromocytoma (a type of adrenal gland tumour)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding — speak to your doctor or pharmacist first
- You are under 12 years of age
- You already take other medicines containing paracetamol
Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking these tablets if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, liver or kidney problems, or if you regularly drink alcohol. The pseudoephedrine in the day tablets can raise blood pressure and interact with several medicines.
Known drug interactions include:
- MAOIs — risk of hypertensive crisis; do not use within 14 days of stopping an MAOI
- Other sympathomimetics (e.g. some nasal decongestant sprays) — additive cardiovascular effects
- Tricyclic antidepressants — may increase cardiovascular side effects of pseudoephedrine
- Sedatives, hypnotics, or alcohol — enhanced sedative effect from diphenhydramine in night tablets
- Warfarin and other anticoagulants — prolonged use of paracetamol may affect INR
How Should You Use Benylin Day and Night Tablets?
Always follow the dosage instructions on the pack or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Here's how to take the tablets correctly:
- Take two day tablets during the daytime — swallow whole with a glass of water
- Repeat the two day tablets after 4 to 6 hours if needed
- Do not take more than four day tablets in any 24-hour period
- At bedtime, take two night tablets — swallow whole with water
- Do not take more than two night tablets in any 24-hour period
- Do not take day and night tablets at the same time
| Tablet Type | Age Group | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day tablets | Adults and young people aged 12+ | 2 tablets | Every 4–6 hours, max 4 tablets in 24 hours |
| Night tablets | Adults and young people aged 12+ | 2 tablets | Once at bedtime only, max 2 tablets in 24 hours |
| Day or night tablets | Under 12 years | Not suitable — do not use | |
Do not use for more than 5 consecutive days without seeking medical advice. If you're also dealing with ear, nose, or throat symptoms beyond a standard cold, our ear, nose and throat range may have additional products to support you.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Benylin Day and Night?
Like all medicines, Benylin Day and Night tablets can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The night tablets are more likely to cause side effects due to the diphenhydramine content.
Common side effects:
- Drowsiness (particularly from the night tablets)
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Difficulty urinating
- Nausea
Less common side effects:
- Palpitations or increased heart rate (more likely with day tablets due to pseudoephedrine)
- Headache
- Restlessness or excitability (particularly in older adults taking diphenhydramine)
- Blurred vision
- Skin rash or allergic reaction
Stop taking the tablets and seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. The NHS advises calling 999 or going to A&E in such cases.
How Should You Store Benylin Day and Night Tablets?
Correct storage helps maintain the effectiveness and safety of the tablets. Follow these guidelines:
- Store below 25°C in a dry place
- Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children
- Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
- Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink where humidity is high
- Return unused or expired medicines to your pharmacist for safe disposal — do not flush down the toilet or throw in household waste
If you're supporting your recovery with additional supplements, our vitamins and supplements range includes options such as vitamin C and zinc that are commonly used during cold season.
References
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/common-cold/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/paracetamol-for-adults/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/decongestants/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antihistamines/
- https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1051/smpc
Written and reviewed by our qualified team
Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Benylin Day and Night tablets online in the UK?
You can buy Benylin Day and Night tablets online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £4.99. They are also available from most high street pharmacies and larger supermarkets without a prescription. As a Pharmacy (P) medicine, they may require a brief suitability check before purchase online.
How do Benylin Day and Night tablets work in the body?
The day tablets combine paracetamol — which reduces fever and relieves pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis — with pseudoephedrine, a decongestant that narrows blood vessels in the nasal lining to ease congestion. The night tablets swap pseudoephedrine for diphenhydramine, a sedating antihistamine that helps you sleep while paracetamol continues to manage pain and fever. Together, the two formulations provide targeted relief at the right time of day.
How do I take Benylin Day and Night tablets step by step?
Take two day tablets during the daytime with a glass of water, repeating every 4 to 6 hours as needed — but no more than four day tablets in 24 hours. At bedtime, take two night tablets only once. Never take day and night tablets simultaneously, and always swallow them whole rather than chewing or crushing them.
What is the best time to take the night tablets in Benylin Day and Night?
Take the two night tablets immediately before you go to bed, as diphenhydramine causes drowsiness relatively quickly. Because they will make you sleepy, you should not take them if you still need to drive, operate machinery, or carry out tasks requiring full alertness. Allow at least 8 hours before you need to be fully awake and functional.
Can I take Benylin Day and Night tablets with other cold medicines?
No — you must not take these tablets alongside any other product containing paracetamol, as this significantly increases the risk of paracetamol overdose, which can cause serious liver damage. This includes many other cold and flu remedies, some headache tablets, and certain prescription medicines. Always check the ingredients of any other medicine you are taking before combining it with Benylin Day and Night tablets.
Are Benylin Day and Night tablets suitable for children?
No, Benylin Day and Night tablets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age. The pseudoephedrine and diphenhydramine in the formulation are not appropriate for younger children, and there are specific paediatric cold remedies available for this age group. If your child is under 12 and has cold symptoms, speak to your pharmacist or GP for suitable alternatives — you can also explore our baby and toddler range for age-appropriate products.
What are the side effects of Benylin Day and Night tablets and how do I manage them?
The most common side effect is drowsiness from the night tablets, which is actually part of their intended action — but it means you should not drive or drink alcohol after taking them. Other side effects can include dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty urinating. If you experience palpitations, a skin rash, or any signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, stop taking the tablets immediately and seek medical attention.
Who should not take Benylin Day and Night tablets?
These tablets are not suitable for people who are allergic to any of the active ingredients, those taking MAOIs or who have taken them within the last 14 days, people with severe high blood pressure or serious heart conditions, and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding without medical advice. People with diabetes, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or thyroid problems should also speak to a pharmacist or GP before use due to the pseudoephedrine content.
What happens if I miss a dose of Benylin Day and Night tablets?
If you miss a dose, simply take the next dose when it is due — do not double up to compensate for a missed one. These tablets are taken as needed for symptom relief rather than on a strict schedule, so missing a single dose is unlikely to affect your overall recovery. Continue following the dosage instructions on the pack and do not exceed the maximum daily dose.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Benylin Day and Night tablets?
You should avoid alcohol while taking these tablets, particularly the night tablets. Alcohol enhances the sedative effect of diphenhydramine, making drowsiness significantly worse and increasing the risk of accidents. Alcohol can also affect how paracetamol is processed by the liver, particularly if you drink regularly or in large amounts — the NHS advises caution with paracetamol in people who drink alcohol regularly.
How long can I take Benylin Day and Night tablets for?
Do not use Benylin Day and Night tablets for more than 5 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. Most colds resolve within 7 to 10 days according to the NHS, so if your symptoms are not improving or are getting worse after 5 days, it's important to seek medical advice as there may be an underlying cause that needs attention. Prolonged use of pseudoephedrine can also cause rebound congestion.
Can I take Benylin Day and Night tablets if I have high blood pressure?
You should speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking these tablets if you have high blood pressure. The pseudoephedrine in the day tablets is a sympathomimetic decongestant that can raise blood pressure, which may be a concern if your blood pressure is already elevated or poorly controlled. Your pharmacist may be able to suggest an alternative decongestant or a paracetamol-only product that is safer for you.
What are the alternatives to Benylin Day and Night tablets?
Common alternatives include Lemsip Max Day and Night capsules, Night Nurse liquid (which contains promethazine rather than diphenhydramine), and separate day and night cold remedies. If your main concern is congestion, a saline nasal spray or a pseudoephedrine-free decongestant may also be appropriate. Browse our cold and flu collection for a full range of options, and ask your pharmacist if you're unsure which product suits your symptoms best.
Is it safe to take Benylin Day and Night tablets during pregnancy?
You should not take these tablets during pregnancy without first speaking to your doctor or midwife. While paracetamol is generally considered the safest painkiller during pregnancy when used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, the pseudoephedrine and diphenhydramine components are not recommended during pregnancy. Your GP or midwife can advise on the safest way to manage cold symptoms if you are pregnant.
What does the latest guidance say about using decongestants like pseudoephedrine?
The NHS and MHRA continue to recognise pseudoephedrine as an effective short-term nasal decongestant when used as directed in adults. However, the MHRA has previously reviewed the safety of oral decongestants and recommends they are used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. People with cardiovascular conditions, hypertension, or those taking interacting medicines should always seek pharmacist advice before use, as the risk-benefit balance may differ from person to person.
