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Anadin Extra - 12 Soluble Tablets

Anadin Extra - 12 Soluble Tablets

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  • ✔️ Relieves headache, migraine, and cold-related pain fast
  • ✔️ Triple-action formula: aspirin, paracetamol, and caffeine combined
  • ✔️ Soluble format absorbs quickly — no swallowing tablets whole
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over
  • ✔️ Effective for fever, toothache, period pain, and rheumatic aches

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What Are Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets and How Do They Help?

 

If you need fast relief from a headache, cold symptoms, or general aches and pains, Anadin Extra soluble tablets offer a convenient, quick-dissolving option that gets to work without the wait. Each pack contains 12 effervescent tablets, making it easy to keep a supply at home or in your bag. The soluble format means the active ingredients are absorbed quickly once dissolved in water — which can make a real difference when you're in discomfort and need relief sooner rather than later. You can browse our full range of pain relief products if you'd like to compare options.

Anadin Extra is manufactured by Haleon and is available over the counter without a prescription. It's a well-established product in the UK, trusted for decades for mild to moderate pain relief. At £4.39 for 12 tablets, it's an accessible choice for everyday pain management.

 

How Does Anadin Extra Work to Relieve Pain?

 

Anadin Extra contains three active ingredients that work together to tackle pain from different angles. Understanding how each one contributes can help you feel confident about what you're taking.

  • Aspirin (300mg per tablet): A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, reducing inflammation, pain, and fever at the site of injury or illness.
  • Paracetamol (200mg per tablet): Works centrally in the brain to raise the pain threshold and reduce fever, complementing aspirin's peripheral action.
  • Caffeine (45mg per tablet): Acts as an adjuvant analgesic — it doesn't relieve pain directly, but research suggests it enhances the effectiveness of aspirin and paracetamol when combined.
  • Soluble formulation: Dissolving the tablet in water before ingestion means the active ingredients are already in solution when they reach your stomach, potentially speeding up absorption compared to standard solid tablets.

The combination of aspirin and paracetamol at these doses is specifically designed to provide broader pain coverage than either ingredient alone, while keeping individual doses within safe limits.

 

Who Is Anadin Extra Suitable For?

 

Anadin Extra soluble tablets are intended for adults and young people aged 16 and over. They're particularly useful for people who find standard tablets difficult to swallow, or who want a faster-acting format. That said, they're not appropriate for everyone.

This product may suit you if you:

  • Are aged 16 or over and in generally good health
  • Need relief from headache, migraine, toothache, period pain, or cold and flu symptoms
  • Prefer a soluble tablet over a standard solid tablet
  • Are not taking other aspirin- or paracetamol-containing medicines

It is not suitable for children under 16, people with aspirin allergy or sensitivity, those with active peptic ulcers, or anyone with severe kidney or liver impairment. Pregnant women should consult their GP or midwife before use, particularly in the third trimester.

 

How Does Anadin Extra Compare to Standard Anadin Tablets?

 

Feature Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets Standard Anadin Tablets
Active ingredients Aspirin 300mg, Paracetamol 200mg, Caffeine 45mg Aspirin 325mg, Caffeine 15mg (no paracetamol)
Formulation Soluble (dissolved in water) Standard solid tablet (swallowed whole)
Speed of action Faster — already in solution on ingestion Standard dissolution time in stomach
Suitable for Adults and young people 16+ Adults and young people 16+

 

How Should You Store Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

 

Store Anadin Extra soluble tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Because these are soluble tablets, humidity can cause them to degrade more quickly than standard tablets — so keep them in their original packaging with the foil intact until you're ready to use them. Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

Check the expiry date printed on the pack before use. Do not use the tablets if the foil is damaged or if the tablets appear discoloured or crumbled. If you need to dispose of unused tablets, return them to your local pharmacy — do not flush them down the toilet or put them in household waste. If you're also managing other health concerns alongside pain, you might find our cold and flu range helpful for symptom relief during illness.

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.

Anadin Extra - 12 Soluble Tablets specifications
Treatment category General pain relief, fever, cold and flu symptoms
Mechanism of action Prostaglandin synthesis inhibition (aspirin), central analgesia (paracetamol), adjuvant analgesia (caffeine)
Effective for Headache, migraine, toothache, period pain, cold and flu symptoms, mild to moderate pain
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 16 and over
Active ingredients Aspirin 300mg, Paracetamol 200mg, Caffeine 45mg per tablet
Pack size 12 soluble tablets
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class NSAID + analgesic combination
Preparation Effervescent / soluble tablet
Route of administration Oral (dissolved in water)

Specifications of Anadin Extra - 12 Soluble Tablets

 

What Is Anadin Extra and What Is It Used For?

 

Anadin Extra 12 Soluble Tablets is an over-the-counter combination analgesic containing aspirin, paracetamol, and caffeine. It is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, including headache, migraine, dental pain, period pain, rheumatic pain, and the aches and fever associated with colds and flu. The soluble format means you dissolve the tablets in water before drinking, which many people find easier than swallowing solid tablets and may help the medicine act more quickly.

This product is classified as a General Sale List (GSL) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription. However, it still carries important warnings and is not appropriate for all patients — read the information below carefully before use.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Anadin Extra?

 

Before taking Anadin Extra soluble tablets, check the following contraindications and warnings carefully:

  • Do not take if you are allergic to aspirin, paracetamol, caffeine, or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • Do not take if you have or have had a peptic ulcer or stomach bleeding
  • Do not give to children or teenagers under 16 years of age — aspirin in this age group carries a risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition
  • Do not take if you have severe liver or kidney impairment
  • Do not take if you have haemophilia or another bleeding disorder
  • Do not take during the third trimester of pregnancy without medical advice
  • Do not take alongside other products containing aspirin or paracetamol — this includes many cold and flu remedies
  • Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have asthma, as aspirin can trigger bronchospasm in some patients

The following medicines may interact with Anadin Extra. Always tell your pharmacist or GP what you are taking:

  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants — aspirin increases bleeding risk
  • Methotrexate — aspirin can increase methotrexate toxicity
  • SSRIs (e.g. fluoxetine, sertraline) — combined use with aspirin increases gastrointestinal bleeding risk
  • Other NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen) — increased risk of side effects
  • Antiepileptics such as phenytoin and valproate — paracetamol may affect their levels
  • Uricosuric agents used for gout — aspirin may reduce their effectiveness

 

How Should You Use Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

 

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

  1. Drop 2 tablets into a full glass of water (at least 150ml)
  2. Stir gently until the tablets are completely dissolved — do not swallow the tablets whole
  3. Drink the full solution immediately
  4. Wait at least 4 hours before taking another dose
  5. Do not take more than 8 tablets (4 doses) in any 24-hour period
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Mild to moderate pain / fever Adults and young people 16+ 2 tablets dissolved in water Every 4 hours; max 8 tablets in 24 hours
Children under 16 Under 16 Not suitable — do not use

If you are also managing digestive discomfort alongside pain, our indigestion range may offer additional support — aspirin can sometimes cause mild stomach upset in sensitive individuals.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Anadin Extra?

 

Like all medicines, Anadin Extra can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice if you notice anything that concerns you.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Mild stomach irritation

Less common side effects:

  • Skin rash or itching (possible allergic reaction)
  • Worsening of asthma symptoms (bronchospasm) in susceptible individuals
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding — seek urgent medical attention if you notice blood in your stools or vomit
  • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) — this may indicate aspirin toxicity; stop use and contact a doctor
  • Dizziness or headache from caffeine sensitivity

If you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe rash — stop taking the tablets immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

 

How Should You Store Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place — moisture can degrade soluble tablets quickly
  • Keep in the original foil packaging until ready to use
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink — humidity accelerates degradation
  • Return unused or expired tablets to your local pharmacy for safe disposal

If you're looking for additional support during illness, our first aid collection includes a range of products to help you manage symptoms at home safely and effectively.

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 Anadin Extra soluble tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Anadin Extra 12 Soluble Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £4.39 per pack. They are available without a prescription as a General Sale List medicine. Browse our full pain relief collection for more options alongside Anadin Extra.

How do Anadin Extra soluble tablets work in the body?

Anadin Extra contains three active ingredients: aspirin, which inhibits prostaglandin production to reduce inflammation and pain; paracetamol, which raises the pain threshold centrally in the brain; and caffeine, which acts as an adjuvant to enhance the analgesic effect of the other two ingredients. Dissolving the tablets in water before drinking means the active ingredients are already in solution when they reach your stomach, which may speed up absorption. Together, these three ingredients provide broader pain relief than any single ingredient alone.

How do I use Anadin Extra soluble tablets step by step?

Drop 2 tablets into a full glass of water (at least 150ml) and stir until completely dissolved before drinking the solution. Never swallow the tablets whole — they must be fully dissolved first. Wait at least 4 hours before taking another dose, and do not exceed 8 tablets in any 24-hour period.

What is the correct dose of Anadin Extra soluble tablets for adults?

The recommended dose for adults and young people aged 16 and over is 2 tablets dissolved in a full glass of water, taken every 4 hours as needed. You should not take more than 8 tablets (equivalent to 4 doses) within any 24-hour period. If your symptoms persist beyond 3 days for fever or 5 days for pain, consult your pharmacist or GP.

When is the best time to take Anadin Extra soluble tablets?

Take Anadin Extra as soon as your symptoms begin — early use tends to be more effective for headaches and migraines in particular. Taking the dissolved solution with or after food can help reduce the risk of stomach irritation from the aspirin content. Avoid taking a dose too close to bedtime if you are sensitive to caffeine, as the 45mg per tablet may affect your sleep.

Are Anadin Extra soluble tablets suitable for children?

No — Anadin Extra soluble tablets must not be given to anyone under 16 years of age. This is because the aspirin content carries a risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition affecting the brain and liver, in children and teenagers. For pain relief in children, speak to your pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives such as children's paracetamol or ibuprofen suspensions.

Can I take Anadin Extra soluble tablets during pregnancy?

Anadin Extra is not recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy, as aspirin at analgesic doses may affect the foetal circulation and delay labour. During the first and second trimesters, use should only be on the advice of a doctor or midwife. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, always speak to a healthcare professional before taking any pain relief medicine.

What medicines interact with Anadin Extra soluble tablets?

Anadin Extra can interact with several medicines, including warfarin and other anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk), methotrexate (increased toxicity risk), SSRIs such as fluoxetine (increased gastrointestinal bleeding risk), other NSAIDs like ibuprofen, and antiepileptic medicines such as phenytoin. Always tell your pharmacist or GP about all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking before using Anadin Extra.

What are the side effects of Anadin Extra soluble tablets?

Common side effects include nausea, stomach discomfort, and indigestion — taking the dissolved solution with food can help reduce these. Less commonly, some people experience skin rash, worsening asthma symptoms, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or gastrointestinal bleeding. If you notice blood in your stools or vomit, or experience signs of a serious allergic reaction such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, stop use immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

How do I manage side effects of Anadin Extra soluble tablets?

To reduce the risk of stomach irritation, always dissolve the tablets in a full glass of water and take the solution with or after food. If you experience persistent indigestion, our indigestion range may provide additional relief. For any side effect that is severe, worsening, or concerns you, contact your pharmacist or GP promptly rather than continuing to take the tablets.

What happens if I take too many Anadin Extra soluble tablets?

Taking more than the recommended dose is dangerous — paracetamol overdose in particular can cause serious liver damage that may not be immediately apparent. If you or someone else has taken too many tablets, go to your nearest A&E or call 999 immediately, even if you feel well. Always take the packaging with you so medical staff can see exactly what has been taken.

What happens if I miss a dose of Anadin Extra soluble tablets?

Anadin Extra is taken as needed for pain relief rather than on a fixed schedule, so there is no "missed dose" in the traditional sense. Simply take a dose when your symptoms return, provided at least 4 hours have passed since your last dose. Never double up doses to compensate for a missed one.

How long can I take Anadin Extra soluble tablets for?

Anadin Extra should not be used for more than 3 consecutive days for fever or more than 5 consecutive days for pain without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Using aspirin-containing products for longer periods without medical supervision increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and other complications. If your pain or fever persists beyond these timeframes, seek professional advice.

What are the alternatives to Anadin Extra soluble tablets?

Alternatives include standard paracetamol tablets, ibuprofen tablets or liquid, or other combination analgesics available without prescription. The right choice depends on your individual health history, any medicines you are already taking, and the type of pain you are experiencing. Speak to your pharmacist for personalised advice — you can also explore our wider pain relief range to find the most suitable option for you.

What are the latest studies on aspirin and paracetamol combination pain relief?

Research published in clinical literature supports the use of aspirin and paracetamol in combination as more effective for certain pain types — particularly tension headache and migraine — than either ingredient used alone at equivalent doses. The addition of caffeine as an adjuvant analgesic is also supported by evidence showing it can meaningfully enhance the pain-relieving effect of aspirin and paracetamol. Always rely on your pharmacist or GP for guidance on which evidence-based option is right for your specific situation.

How Should You Use Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

Anadin Extra soluble tablets must always be dissolved in water before you take them — never swallow them whole or chew them. Taking them correctly ensures you get the full benefit of the medicine and reduces the risk of stomach irritation from the aspirin content.

Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

The dose varies by age. Only adults and young people aged 16 and over should use this product. Do not give Anadin Extra to anyone under 16 under any circumstances.

When Is the Best Time to Use Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

Take Anadin Extra as soon as your symptoms start — acting early is particularly effective for headaches and migraines, where delaying treatment can make pain harder to manage. If you are sensitive to caffeine, try to avoid taking a dose in the late evening, as the caffeine content (45mg per tablet, 90mg per dose) may interfere with sleep for some people.

Taking the dissolved solution with or shortly after food is a sensible habit, especially if you have a history of stomach sensitivity or indigestion. There is no fixed time of day that is universally "best" — simply take it when your symptoms require relief, within the dosing limits above.

How Long Can You Use Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets For?

For fever, do not use Anadin Extra for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. For pain relief, the limit is 5 consecutive days. If your symptoms persist beyond these timeframes, or if they worsen at any point, stop taking the tablets and seek professional advice promptly.

Long-term or frequent use of aspirin-containing medicines without medical supervision can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach ulcers and bleeding. If you find yourself needing pain relief regularly, it is worth discussing this with your GP to identify and address the underlying cause.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

Most people tolerate Anadin Extra well when taken as directed, but some individuals do experience side effects — particularly related to the aspirin content. Stomach-related symptoms are the most frequently reported.

  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Stomach discomfort or cramping
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Mild stomach irritation

Taking the dissolved solution with or after food, and ensuring you use a full glass of water, can help reduce the likelihood of these effects occurring.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

Less commonly, some people may experience side effects that require more attention. These are not typical but are worth being aware of before you start taking the medicine.

  • Skin rash, itching, or hives — may indicate a mild allergic reaction
  • Worsening of asthma symptoms or wheezing — aspirin can trigger bronchospasm in susceptible individuals
  • Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears) — this can be a sign of aspirin toxicity; stop use and contact a doctor
  • Dizziness or jitteriness — may be related to caffeine sensitivity
  • Difficulty sleeping — again, linked to caffeine content in some individuals

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Anadin Extra Soluble Tablets?

Serious side effects are uncommon but require immediate medical attention if they occur. Gastrointestinal bleeding is the most significant risk associated with aspirin use, particularly in people with a history of stomach ulcers or those taking anticoagulants.

Seek urgent medical help if you notice any of the following:

  • Blood in your stools (dark or tarry stools) or vomiting blood — signs of gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat — signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
  • Severe difficulty breathing or sudden worsening of asthma
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Signs of liver problems — yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, persistent nausea

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Anadin Extra?

For mild side effects such as nausea or indigestion, try taking the dissolved solution with food and ensure you are using the correct dose. If side effects persist or worsen, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP. Do not simply increase the dose or take the tablets more frequently in an attempt to manage symptoms — this increases the risk of harm.

In the event of a suspected overdose — even if you feel well — go to your nearest A&E immediately or call 999. Paracetamol overdose in particular can cause serious liver damage that may not produce obvious symptoms for several hours.

Can Anadin Extra Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — Anadin Extra has several clinically significant drug interactions. Aspirin increases the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, raising the risk of bleeding. Combined use with other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen increases the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. SSRIs (e.g. fluoxetine, sertraline) taken alongside aspirin further increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Methotrexate toxicity can be increased by aspirin. Paracetamol may affect the blood levels of antiepileptic medicines such as phenytoin and valproate.

Always tell your pharmacist or GP about every medicine, supplement, or herbal remedy you are taking before using Anadin Extra. This includes over-the-counter cold and flu remedies, many of which already contain paracetamol or aspirin.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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