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Beechams Powders for Cold and Flu - 20 Sachets

Beechams Powders for Cold and Flu - 20 Sachets

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  • ✔️ Relieves cold and flu headache, fever, and sore throat
  • ✔️ Contains 1000mg paracetamol per sachet for effective pain relief
  • ✔️ Warm drink format soothes sore throats as you dose
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ 20 individually wrapped sachets for convenient on-the-go use

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What Are Beechams Powders Cold and Flu Sachets?

 

When a cold or flu hits, you want relief that actually works — and fast. Beechams Powders cold and flu sachets are a well-established over-the-counter remedy that combines paracetamol with vitamin C to tackle the most disruptive symptoms of colds and flu. Each box contains 20 individual sachets, making it easy to keep a supply at home or at work throughout the winter months. At just £4.99, it's an accessible option for adults and children aged 12 and over who need straightforward, effective symptom relief.

Colds and flu are among the most common reasons people seek pharmacy advice in the UK. The NHS estimates that adults typically experience two to four colds per year, with symptoms including sore throat, headache, blocked nose, and raised temperature. If you're browsing our cold and flu collection, you'll find Beechams Powders sitting alongside a range of other trusted remedies to help you get back on your feet.

 

How Do Beechams Powders Work to Relieve Symptoms?

 

The sachets work through a dual-action formula. Paracetamol is the primary active ingredient, and it addresses the most uncomfortable aspects of cold and flu — pain and fever. Vitamin C is included to support the body during illness, though it does not treat the viral infection itself.

  • Paracetamol (1000mg per sachet): Inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, reducing fever (antipyretic action) and relieving headache, sore throat, and body aches (analgesic action).
  • Vitamin C (60mg per sachet): An antioxidant micronutrient that contributes to normal immune system function, particularly during and after physical stress.
  • Hot water dissolution: The powder dissolves in hot water to create a warm drink, which may also help soothe a sore throat and ease nasal congestion through steam inhalation.

 

Who Is Beechams Powders Suitable For?

 

These sachets are designed for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms. They're particularly useful if you prefer a warm drink format over tablets or capsules — which some people find easier to take when they're feeling unwell and have a sore throat.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with cold or flu symptoms
  • Teenagers aged 12–17 (under adult supervision)
  • People who struggle to swallow tablets
  • Those who want a combined paracetamol and vitamin C remedy in one convenient sachet

Not suitable for children under 12, people with severe liver or kidney disease, or those already taking other paracetamol-containing medicines. Always read the label before use.

 

How Do Beechams Powders Compare to Similar Cold Remedies?

 

Feature Beechams Powders Cold & Flu Lemsip Max Cold & Flu
Active ingredients Paracetamol 1000mg, Vitamin C 60mg Paracetamol 1000mg, Phenylephrine 12.5mg
Format Powder sachet dissolved in hot water Powder sachet dissolved in hot water
Decongestant included No Yes (phenylephrine)
Suitable for hypertension Generally yes (no decongestant) Caution — check with pharmacist

 

How Should You Store Beechams Powders and Are They Right for You?

 

Store sachets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. The sachets are individually wrapped, which helps maintain freshness and makes them convenient to carry in a bag or keep in a desk drawer. Always check the expiry date printed on the box before use.

If you're managing other health conditions — for example, if you're already taking medicines from our pain relief range that contain paracetamol — it's essential to check with your pharmacist before adding Beechams Powders to your routine. Exceeding 4g of paracetamol in 24 hours can cause serious liver damage, even if you feel well at the time.

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.

Beechams Powders for Cold and Flu - 20 Sachets specifications
Treatment category Cold and flu symptom relief
Mechanism of action Analgesic and antipyretic (paracetamol); antioxidant immune support (vitamin C)
Effective for Headache, fever, sore throat, body aches associated with cold and flu
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredients Paracetamol 1000mg, Vitamin C 60mg per sachet
Pack size 20 sachets
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Analgesic / antipyretic
Preparation Powder for oral solution
Route of administration Oral (dissolved in hot water)

Specifications of Beechams Powders for Cold and Flu - 20 Sachets

 

What Is Beechams Powders Cold and Flu and What Is It Used For?

 

Beechams Powders Cold and Flu is an over-the-counter medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and influenza in adults and children aged 12 and over. Each sachet contains paracetamol 1000mg and vitamin C 60mg. Paracetamol is one of the most widely used analgesics and antipyretics in the UK, recommended by the NHS for the management of mild to moderate pain and fever. The vitamin C component contributes to normal immune function. Together, they address the cluster of symptoms — headache, raised temperature, sore throat, and general aches — that make colds and flu so miserable.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Beechams Powders?

 

Before taking these sachets, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not use this product if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to paracetamol or any other ingredient in the sachets
  • You have severe liver disease or severe kidney impairment
  • You are already taking other medicines containing paracetamol (including prescription medicines)
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You regularly drink more than three units of alcohol per day
  • You have phenylketonuria (PKU) — check the full ingredients list for aspartame if relevant

The following medicines may interact with Beechams Powders. Always tell your pharmacist or doctor what you are taking:

  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants: Regular use of paracetamol may enhance the anticoagulant effect
  • Other paracetamol-containing products: Risk of accidental overdose if taken together
  • Metoclopramide or domperidone: May increase the rate of paracetamol absorption
  • Cholestyramine: May reduce paracetamol absorption if taken within one hour

 

How Should You Use Beechams Powders Correctly?

 

Always use this medicine exactly as described on the label or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

  1. Tear open one sachet along the perforated edge.
  2. Empty the entire contents into a mug.
  3. Add hot (not boiling) water — approximately 200ml — and stir until the powder is fully dissolved.
  4. Allow to cool slightly before drinking.
  5. Wait at least four hours before taking another sachet.
  6. Do not take more than four sachets in any 24-hour period.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum in 24 hours
Adults and children aged 12+ 1 sachet Every 4–6 hours 4 sachets
Children under 12 Not suitable

If symptoms persist for more than three days, or worsen at any point, stop use and consult your GP. You might also find it helpful to explore our ear, nose and throat range for additional symptom relief options such as throat sprays or nasal decongestants.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Beechams Powders?

 

Paracetamol is generally well tolerated when taken at the recommended dose. However, like all medicines, side effects are possible. Stop taking the sachets and seek medical advice if you notice anything unusual.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Nausea
  • Stomach discomfort

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Flushing
  • Low blood pressure (if taken intravenously — not applicable to oral use)
  • Blood disorders (very rare with oral paracetamol at recommended doses)

Serious allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. Call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if this occurs.

 

How Should You Store Beechams Powders Safely?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of the product throughout its shelf life. If you're stocking up on winter remedies alongside items from our vitamins and supplements range, keep the following storage guidance in mind for Beechams Powders:

  • Store below 25°C
  • Keep in a dry place — avoid bathrooms or areas with high humidity
  • Keep out of the sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the box
  • Do not transfer sachets to another container
  • Return unused or expired sachets to your pharmacy for safe disposal — do not flush or bin medicines

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 Beechams Powders cold and flu online in the UK?

You can order Beechams Powders Cold and Flu 20 Sachets directly from Cured Pharmacy for £4.99 with fast UK delivery. They are a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, so no prescription is needed. Browse our full cold and flu collection for more options to help you through the season.

How do Beechams Powders work in the body?

Paracetamol, the primary active ingredient, works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the brain — chemicals that trigger pain signals and raise body temperature. This reduces fever and relieves headache, sore throat, and body aches. The vitamin C (60mg per sachet) supports normal immune function during illness, though it does not directly treat the cold or flu virus itself.

How do I use Beechams Powders step by step?

Tear open one sachet, empty the powder into a mug, and add approximately 200ml of hot (not boiling) water. Stir until fully dissolved, allow to cool slightly, then drink while still warm. Do not take more than one sachet at a time, and leave at least four hours between doses.

What is the correct dose of Beechams Powders for adults?

Adults and young people aged 12 and over should take one sachet dissolved in hot water every four to six hours when needed. The maximum dose is four sachets in any 24-hour period. Never exceed this limit, as doing so risks serious liver damage from paracetamol overdose.

When is the best time to take Beechams Powders?

You can take a sachet as soon as symptoms begin — there is no specific time of day that is clinically superior. Many people find a warm sachet drink particularly soothing in the evening before bed, as it may help ease a sore throat and promote rest. Just ensure you space doses at least four hours apart throughout the day.

Can I take Beechams Powders with other medicines?

Do not take Beechams Powders alongside any other product containing paracetamol — this includes many combination cold remedies, some prescription painkillers, and certain migraine treatments. If you take warfarin, speak to your pharmacist before use, as regular paracetamol can affect how warfarin works. Always check with a pharmacist if you are unsure about interactions.

Are Beechams Powders safe to take during pregnancy?

Paracetamol has historically been considered the analgesic of choice during pregnancy, but guidance has evolved and the NHS now advises using the lowest effective dose for the shortest time possible. Always consult your GP or midwife before taking any medicine during pregnancy, including over-the-counter remedies like Beechams Powders.

Can children under 12 take Beechams Powders?

No — Beechams Powders Cold and Flu sachets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age. If you need cold and flu relief for younger children, speak to your pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives. You can also explore our baby and toddler range for products designed for younger age groups.

What are the side effects of Beechams Powders?

Side effects are uncommon when the product is taken at the recommended dose. Possible side effects include nausea, stomach discomfort, and skin rash. Serious allergic reactions — such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing — are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop use and contact your GP or pharmacist if you experience anything unexpected.

How do I manage side effects of Beechams Powders?

If you experience nausea, try taking the sachet with or after a light snack rather than on an empty stomach. For mild skin irritation, stop use and consult your pharmacist. If you develop any signs of a serious allergic reaction, seek emergency medical help immediately and do not take any further doses.

Who should not use Beechams Powders?

This product is not suitable for children under 12, people with severe liver or kidney disease, those with a known allergy to paracetamol, or anyone already taking other paracetamol-containing medicines. People who drink more than three units of alcohol daily should also avoid this product or seek pharmacist advice first.

What happens if I accidentally take too many Beechams Powders?

Taking too much paracetamol is a medical emergency, even if you feel well initially. If you think you or someone else has taken more than the recommended dose, go to your nearest A&E or call 999 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — liver damage from paracetamol overdose can occur without early warning signs.

How long can I use Beechams Powders for?

Beechams Powders are intended for short-term use only — typically no more than three days without medical review. If your symptoms have not improved after three days, or if they worsen at any point, stop use and consult your GP. Prolonged use of paracetamol without medical supervision is not recommended.

What are the alternatives to Beechams Powders for cold and flu?

Common alternatives include Lemsip Max (which adds a decongestant, phenylephrine, to the paracetamol base) and Day Nurse or Night Nurse liquids, which contain additional ingredients for daytime or night-time use. The right choice depends on your specific symptoms and any other medicines you take — your pharmacist can help you decide.

What does the latest research say about paracetamol for cold and flu?

Paracetamol remains one of the most studied analgesics and antipyretics in the world, and it continues to be recommended by the NHS and NICE for the symptomatic relief of cold and flu. Research supports its effectiveness for reducing fever and relieving mild to moderate pain at recommended doses. There is ongoing discussion about optimal dosing in specific populations, so always follow current NHS guidance and speak to your pharmacist if you have questions.

How Should You Use Beechams Powders Cold and Flu?

Using Beechams Powders correctly ensures you get the most from each sachet while staying safe. The powder is designed to be dissolved in hot water and consumed as a warm drink — not swallowed dry or mixed with cold liquid. Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

Do not take more than one sachet at a time. If you find the taste too strong, you may add a small amount of cold water to cool it further, but do not dilute it so much that you leave any behind in the mug.

What Is the Correct Dose of Beechams Powders?

The dose depends on your age. This product is not suitable for children under 12 years of age under any circumstances. Always follow the dosage instructions on the pack and never exceed the maximum daily dose of paracetamol from all sources combined.

Remember that each sachet contains 1000mg of paracetamol. If you are taking any other medicines — prescription or over-the-counter — that also contain paracetamol, you must account for this in your total daily intake. The maximum safe daily dose of paracetamol for adults is 4g (4000mg) in 24 hours.

When Is the Best Time to Use Beechams Powders?

There is no single "best" time of day — you should take a sachet when your symptoms are most troublesome and when at least four hours have passed since your last dose. Many people find a warm sachet drink helpful first thing in the morning when symptoms often feel at their worst, and again in the evening to ease discomfort before sleep. The warmth of the drink itself can be soothing for a sore throat at any time of day.

If you are taking four doses across the day, try to space them as evenly as possible — for example, morning, midday, late afternoon, and evening — to maintain consistent symptom relief throughout the day.

How Long Can You Use Beechams Powders For?

Beechams Powders are intended for short-term use only. Do not use them for more than three consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. Most cold and flu symptoms begin to improve within this timeframe. If your symptoms persist beyond three days, worsen significantly, or you develop a high fever that does not respond to treatment, you should seek medical advice promptly — this could indicate a secondary infection or another underlying condition that requires assessment.

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

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Helps me a lot

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Beechams Powders?

Beechams Powders are generally well tolerated when taken at the recommended dose. Paracetamol has one of the most established safety profiles of any over-the-counter medicine available in the UK. That said, side effects can still occur in some people, and it's worth knowing what to look out for.

  • Nausea or feeling sick
  • Stomach discomfort or mild abdominal pain
  • Feeling generally unwell (though this may also be due to the cold or flu itself)

Taking the sachet with a light snack or after eating may help reduce the likelihood of stomach-related side effects.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Beechams Powders?

Less common side effects occur in a small number of people and are not typically serious when identified early. If you notice any of the following, stop use and speak to your pharmacist:

  • Skin rash, itching, or hives
  • Flushing or redness of the skin
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding (very rare — may indicate an effect on blood cells with prolonged use)
  • Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice — seek urgent medical attention)

These reactions are uncommon at standard doses but become more likely if the recommended dose is exceeded or if the product is used for longer than advised.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Beechams Powders?

Serious side effects from paracetamol taken at the correct dose are rare. However, they can occur and require immediate medical attention. The most significant risk associated with paracetamol is liver damage, which can result from taking too much — even accidentally. This is why it is so important never to take Beechams Powders alongside other paracetamol-containing products.

Signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, or loss of consciousness. If you or someone nearby experiences these symptoms after taking this product, call 999 immediately.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as nausea or stomach discomfort, try taking the sachet after food and ensure you are drinking the full volume of liquid. If a skin rash or itching develops, stop use immediately and consult your pharmacist before taking any further doses. For any serious reaction — particularly breathing difficulties, facial swelling, or signs of liver problems — seek emergency medical help without delay.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety for everyone.

Can Beechams Powders Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — interactions are possible, and some are clinically significant. The most important interaction to be aware of is with other paracetamol-containing medicines. Taking two products that both contain paracetamol simultaneously can push your total daily intake above the safe limit of 4g, increasing the risk of liver damage. Warfarin users should be aware that regular paracetamol use can enhance the anticoagulant effect, potentially increasing bleeding risk. Medicines that affect stomach emptying — such as metoclopramide — may alter how quickly paracetamol is absorbed. Always tell your pharmacist about everything you are taking before starting Beechams Powders.

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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