Lemsip Cold & Flu Lemon Sachets -10 Sachets

What Are Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon Sachets?

Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon sachets are one of the UK's most recognised over-the-counter remedies for cold and flu symptoms. Each warm lemon-flavoured drink combines two active ingredients — paracetamol and phenylephrine hydrochloride — to tackle the cluster of symptoms that make a cold or flu so miserable. Sore throat, headache, blocked nose, aches and pains, and raised temperature are all addressed in a single, easy-to-prepare hot drink. You can browse the full range of cold and flu treatments in our Cold and Flu collection.

Cold and flu are caused by viral infections and are extremely common, particularly during autumn and winter. The NHS notes that most adults experience two to four colds per year. Symptoms typically peak within two to three days and can leave you feeling drained and uncomfortable. Having a reliable symptomatic treatment to hand makes a real difference to how you get through those difficult days.

How Do Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon Sachets Work?

The two active ingredients in each sachet work through distinct but complementary mechanisms:

• Paracetamol (650mg per sachet): Acts centrally to reduce fever by affecting the hypothalamus, the brain's temperature-regulating centre. It also inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, which helps relieve pain — including sore throat discomfort and headache.
• Phenylephrine hydrochloride (10mg per sachet): A sympathomimetic decongestant. It works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa, causing vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels). This reduces swelling and congestion in the nasal passages, making it easier to breathe.
• Hot lemon drink format: The warm liquid itself can soothe an irritated throat and help with hydration, which is important when you have a fever.

Together, these ingredients address both the pain and the congestion that define a typical cold or flu episode. It's worth noting that neither ingredient treats the underlying virus — they manage symptoms while your immune system does the work.

Who Should Use Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon Sachets?

These sachets are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms. They are particularly useful if you have a combination of symptoms — for example, both a blocked nose and a headache — since the dual-action formula addresses both at once. If you only have a sore throat or mild pain, a simple paracetamol tablet may be sufficient. You might also find relevant products in our Ear, Nose and Throat collection.

This product is well suited for:

• Adults and children aged 12 and over with cold or flu symptoms
• People experiencing nasal congestion alongside headache or sore throat
• Those who prefer a warm drink format over tablets or capsules
• Individuals who need symptomatic relief during the working day or at bedtime

How Do Lemsip Cold and Flu Sachets Compare to Similar Products?

How Should You Store Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon Sachets?

Store your Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon sachets 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 sachets after the expiry date printed on the outer carton. Once prepared as a drink, consume immediately — do not store the made-up liquid for later use.

Check the packaging before purchase and use. If any sachet appears damaged or the contents look unusual, do not use it. Dispose of unused or expired sachets safely — your local pharmacy can advise on medicines disposal.

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.

What Is Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon and What Is It Used For?

Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon sachets are an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and influenza in adults and young people aged 12 and over. Each sachet contains paracetamol 650mg and phenylephrine hydrochloride 10mg. The paracetamol component reduces fever and relieves pain — including sore throat, headache, and body aches — while phenylephrine acts as a nasal decongestant to ease a blocked or stuffy nose. The NHS advises that most cold and flu symptoms can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and appropriate over-the-counter medicines.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon?

Before using these sachets, read the following carefully. Do not use this product if any of the contraindications below apply to you.

Do not use if you:

• Are allergic to paracetamol, phenylephrine, or any other ingredient in the sachet
• Are under 12 years of age
• Are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
• Have severe high blood pressure (hypertension) or severe heart disease
• Are taking other paracetamol-containing medicines — this risks exceeding the safe daily dose
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding without first speaking to a doctor or pharmacist

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use if you have:

• Liver or kidney problems
• Diabetes
• Thyroid disease
• Glaucoma
• An enlarged prostate
• Cardiovascular disease or raised blood pressure

Known drug interactions — do not take alongside:

• Other paracetamol-containing products (risk of overdose)
• MAOIs or tricyclic antidepressants
• Beta-blockers or other antihypertensives
• Other sympathomimetic decongestants
• Warfarin (regular paracetamol use may affect anticoagulant control)

If you are managing other health conditions alongside a cold, our Vitamins and Supplements collection includes immune-support options that may complement your recovery.

How Should You Use Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon?

Always use this medicine exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the stated dose.

1. Empty the contents of one sachet into a mug.
2. Add freshly boiled water that has been allowed to cool slightly — the water should be hot but not boiling.
3. Stir well until the powder is fully dissolved.
4. Drink while warm for best effect.
5. Wait at least four hours before taking the next sachet.
6. Do not take more than four sachets in any 24-hour period.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon?

Like all medicines, Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon sachets can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The NHS advises that paracetamol is generally well tolerated when taken at the recommended dose.

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Difficulty sleeping (insomnia), particularly if taken close to bedtime
• Mild increase in heart rate

Less common side effects:

• Raised blood pressure
• Headache (paradoxically, in some individuals)
• Skin rash or itching
• Urinary retention (particularly in men with prostate problems)

Stop taking this medicine and seek immediate medical attention if you develop a severe skin reaction, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat — these may indicate a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Paracetamol overdose is a medical emergency; if you suspect you or someone else has taken too much, go to A&E immediately even if you feel well, as liver damage may not be apparent for several days.

How Should You Store Lemsip Cold and Flu Lemon?

Correct storage helps maintain the safety and effectiveness of this medicine. If you need additional products for pain or discomfort during your recovery, our Pain Relief collection has a range of options.

• Store below 25°C in a dry place
• Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date on the carton
• Do not store the prepared drink — consume immediately after making
• Return unused or expired medicines to your pharmacy for safe disposal