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Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief – 16 Tablets

Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief – 16 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Relieves cold and flu fever, headache, and body aches
  • ✔️ Unblocks nasal congestion with phenylephrine decongestant
  • ✔️ Night formula helps you sleep through cold symptoms
  • ✔️ Dual-formula pack covers day and night symptom relief
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over

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What Are Benylin Day Night Cold Flu Tablets?

 

When a cold or flu hits, it rarely sticks to office hours. That's exactly why Benylin Day Night cold flu tablets come in a dual-formula pack — 12 day tablets and 4 night tablets — designed to tackle your symptoms around the clock. Each formula is tailored to what your body needs at that particular time of day, so you're not just masking symptoms; you're working with your body's natural rhythm. You can browse the full range of cold and flu treatments at Cured Pharmacy's cold and flu collection if you'd like to compare your options.

Cold and flu symptoms — including fever, headache, blocked nose, and body aches — are among the most common reasons people visit a pharmacist in the UK. 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 and function during that time.

 

How Do Benylin Day & Night Tablets Work?

 

The two formulas work differently, and that's intentional. Here's a breakdown of the active ingredients in each:

  • Day tablets contain paracetamol (500 mg) to reduce fever and relieve pain, plus phenylephrine hydrochloride (6.1 mg) — a nasal decongestant that helps open up blocked nasal passages by constricting blood vessels in the nasal lining.
  • Night tablets contain paracetamol (500 mg) for continued pain and fever relief, plus diphenhydramine hydrochloride (25 mg) — a sedating antihistamine that helps you drift off to sleep despite cold symptoms.

Paracetamol works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, which reduces both pain perception and elevated body temperature. Phenylephrine acts as a sympathomimetic agent on alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa. Diphenhydramine, meanwhile, crosses the blood-brain barrier and produces sedation alongside its antihistamine effect — which is why the night tablets should only ever be taken at bedtime.

 

Who Should Use Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

 

This product is suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over who are experiencing the typical cluster of cold or flu symptoms. It's particularly useful if your symptoms are disrupting your sleep as well as your daytime routine. That said, it's not right for everyone.

  • Adults aged 16 and over with cold or flu symptoms
  • People experiencing both daytime congestion and night-time sleep disruption
  • Those who need fever and pain relief alongside decongestant support
  • Individuals who prefer a single pack covering both day and night symptom management

It is not suitable for children under 16, and you should always check with your pharmacist if you have an underlying health condition or take regular medication.

 

How Does Benylin Day & Night Compare to Other Cold Remedies?

 

Feature Benylin Day & Night 16 Tablets Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules
Daytime active ingredients Paracetamol + Phenylephrine Paracetamol + Phenylephrine
Night-time active ingredients Paracetamol + Diphenhydramine Paracetamol + Diphenhydramine
Formulation Tablet Capsule
Pack size 16 tablets (12 day + 4 night) Typically 8–16 capsules

 

Is Benylin Day & Night Suitable for People With Other Conditions?

 

If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, or liver or kidney impairment, you should speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking Benylin Day Night cold flu tablets. Phenylephrine can raise blood pressure, and paracetamol requires dose adjustment in people with liver conditions. If you're already taking other medicines — particularly MAOIs, antidepressants, or any other paracetamol-containing product — check for interactions first. For general pain relief options that may be more appropriate in certain circumstances, you can explore Cured Pharmacy's pain relief collection.

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 & Night Cold & Flu Relief – 16 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Cold and flu relief
Mechanism of action Analgesic/antipyretic (paracetamol), nasal decongestant (phenylephrine), sedating antihistamine (diphenhydramine)
Effective for Fever, headache, nasal congestion, body aches, sleep disruption due to cold/flu
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 16 and over
Active ingredients (Day) Paracetamol 500 mg, Phenylephrine hydrochloride 6.1 mg
Active ingredients (Night) Paracetamol 500 mg, Diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25 mg
Pack size 16 tablets (12 day + 4 night)
UK classification GSL (General Sale List)
Drug class Analgesic, decongestant, antihistamine combination
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief – 16 Tablets

 

What Is Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief and What Is It Used For?

 

Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief is an over-the-counter combination medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu in adults and young people aged 16 and over. It comes as a pack of 16 tablets — 12 yellow day tablets and 4 blue night tablets — each formulated differently to suit the time of day you take them. The day tablets help you function normally by relieving congestion, pain, and fever without causing drowsiness. The night tablets help you sleep by adding a sedating antihistamine to the paracetamol base.

Symptoms it can help with include headache, fever, sore throat pain, blocked or runny nose, and general aches and pains associated with colds and flu. It does not treat the underlying viral infection itself — it simply makes the experience more manageable while your immune system does its job.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Benylin Day & Night Tablets?

 

Before taking these tablets, it's important to check whether they're appropriate for you. Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply:

  • You are under 16 years of age
  • You are allergic to paracetamol, phenylephrine, diphenhydramine, or any other ingredient
  • You are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in the last 14 days
  • You have severe liver or kidney disease
  • You have a condition called phenylketonuria
  • You are taking any other paracetamol-containing medicine
  • You have glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or urinary retention

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, an overactive thyroid, or epilepsy. Pregnancy and breastfeeding also require a conversation with a healthcare professional before use.

Known drug interactions to be aware of include:

  • Other paracetamol-containing products (risk of overdose)
  • MAOIs and tricyclic antidepressants
  • Sedatives, sleeping tablets, or alcohol (increased drowsiness with night tablets)
  • Antihypertensive medicines (phenylephrine may reduce their effect)
  • Anticoagulants such as warfarin (paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant effect with prolonged use)

 

How Should You Use Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

 

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before taking this medicine. Follow these steps:

  1. Take 2 day tablets with water during the day — do not chew or crush them.
  2. Repeat every 4 to 6 hours as needed, up to a maximum of 3 times during the day.
  3. At bedtime, take 2 night tablets with water.
  4. Do not take more than 8 tablets in any 24-hour period.
  5. Do not take with any other paracetamol-containing product.
  6. Do not drive or operate machinery after taking the night tablets.
Tablet type Age group Dose Frequency
Day tablets Adults and young people aged 16+ 2 tablets Every 4–6 hours, max 3 times daily
Night tablets Adults and young people aged 16+ 2 tablets Once at bedtime only
Day or Night tablets Under 16 Not suitable — do not use

If you're also managing other symptoms such as nausea or an upset stomach alongside your cold, you might find it helpful to look at Cured Pharmacy's sickness and nausea range for additional support.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

 

Like all medicines, Benylin Day & Night can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Knowing what to look out for helps you use this medicine safely.

Common side effects:

  • Drowsiness (particularly with the night tablets)
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache

Less common side effects:

  • Difficulty urinating
  • Blurred vision
  • Palpitations or increased heart rate
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Raised blood pressure

Stop taking the tablets and seek immediate medical attention if you develop swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. These may indicate a rare but serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). If you accidentally take too much paracetamol, go to A&E immediately even if you feel well — paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage that may not be apparent straight away.

 

How Should You Store Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

 

Correct storage keeps the tablets effective and safe for the duration of their shelf life. If you're stocking up on medicines for the household, it's also worth checking out Cured Pharmacy's vitamins and supplements collection to support your immune health during cold season.

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep out of direct sunlight and away from 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
  • Return unused or expired tablets to your pharmacist for safe disposal — do not flush or bin them

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 & Night Cold & Flu Relief tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief 16 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. Simply add the product to your basket and select your preferred delivery option at checkout. It's available without a prescription as a General Sale List medicine.

How do Benylin Day & Night tablets work in the body?

The day tablets use paracetamol to reduce fever and relieve pain, while phenylephrine constricts blood vessels in the nasal lining to ease congestion. The night tablets replace phenylephrine with diphenhydramine — a sedating antihistamine — so you can sleep through your symptoms more comfortably. Together, the two formulas provide round-the-clock symptom management tailored to your body's needs at different times of day.

How do I take Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief step by step?

Take 2 day tablets with water every 4 to 6 hours during the day, up to a maximum of 3 times. At bedtime, take 2 night tablets with water — once only. Do not exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours, and never take them alongside any other paracetamol-containing product.

What is the maximum dose of Benylin Day & Night tablets in 24 hours?

The maximum is 8 tablets in any 24-hour period — that's up to 3 doses of 2 day tablets plus 1 dose of 2 night tablets. Exceeding this limit increases the risk of paracetamol overdose, which can cause serious liver damage. Always check the label and never combine with other paracetamol medicines.

What are the side effects of Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

Common side effects include drowsiness (especially from the night tablets), nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth. Less commonly, you may experience palpitations, difficulty urinating, or blurred vision. If you develop a rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, stop taking the tablets and seek urgent medical attention.

How do I manage drowsiness caused by Benylin Night tablets?

The drowsiness from the night tablets is caused by diphenhydramine and is intentional — it helps you sleep. To manage it safely, only ever take the night tablets immediately before going to bed, and avoid alcohol, sedatives, or driving the following morning if you still feel groggy. If daytime drowsiness is a concern, stick to the day tablets during waking hours.

Who should not take Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

This medicine is not suitable for children under 16, people taking MAOIs, those with severe liver or kidney disease, or anyone already taking other paracetamol-containing products. People with high blood pressure, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or heart disease should speak to a pharmacist or GP before use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also seek professional advice first.

Can I drive after taking Benylin Night tablets?

No — you must not drive or operate machinery after taking the night tablets, as diphenhydramine causes significant drowsiness. This effect can persist into the following morning, so assess how you feel before getting behind the wheel. The day tablets do not contain a sedating ingredient and are less likely to impair driving, but always use your own judgement.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Benylin Day & Night tablets?

You should avoid alcohol while taking these tablets, particularly the night formula. Alcohol combined with diphenhydramine significantly increases sedation and can be dangerous. Alcohol can also affect how paracetamol is processed by the liver, increasing the risk of liver damage — especially if you drink regularly or in large amounts.

What happens if I miss a dose of Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next one when it's due — do not double up to compensate. These tablets are taken as needed for symptom relief rather than on a strict schedule, so missing one dose is unlikely to cause any problems. Just make sure you don't exceed the maximum daily dose of 8 tablets in 24 hours.

How long can I take Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief for?

Do not take these tablets for more than 5 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Most colds resolve within 7 to 10 days according to the NHS, but if your symptoms worsen, persist beyond 5 days, or you develop a high fever, seek medical advice. Prolonged use of decongestants can sometimes cause rebound congestion.

What are the alternatives to Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

Alternatives with a similar dual-formula approach include Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules and Sudafed Day & Night Cold & Flu tablets — both contain comparable active ingredients. You can explore a wider range of options in Cured Pharmacy's cold and flu collection. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate product based on your symptoms and medical history.

Is Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief suitable during pregnancy?

You should not take this medicine during pregnancy without first speaking to your GP or midwife. While paracetamol is generally considered the safest painkiller in pregnancy, phenylephrine and diphenhydramine have not been established as safe for use during pregnancy. Always seek professional advice before taking any over-the-counter medicine when pregnant.

Can I take Benylin Day & Night tablets with other cold and flu medicines?

No — you must not take these tablets alongside any other medicine containing paracetamol, phenylephrine, or diphenhydramine, as this could lead to accidental overdose. Many cold and flu remedies, including hot drinks like Lemsip, contain paracetamol, so always check the ingredients of everything you're taking. If you're unsure, ask your pharmacist before combining any medicines. You can also find additional support products in Cured Pharmacy's ear, nose and throat collection.

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

Paracetamol remains one of the most well-evidenced analgesics and antipyretics available, with decades of clinical use supporting its safety and efficacy at recommended doses. The evidence base for oral phenylephrine as a nasal decongestant has been subject to ongoing review — some studies have questioned its efficacy at standard oral doses compared to topical decongestants. Speak to your pharmacist if you have concerns about which decongestant approach is most appropriate for you.

How Should You Use Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

Always read the patient information leaflet before taking this medicine. The pack contains two different tablet types — yellow day tablets and blue night tablets — and it's important to use each one correctly. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew them.

Follow these steps for correct use:

What Is the Correct Dose of Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

The correct dose depends on which tablet type you are taking and the time of day. The table below summarises the recommended dosing for each formula. Never exceed the stated doses — paracetamol overdose is a medical emergency even if you feel well initially.

When Is the Best Time to Use Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

The day tablets are best taken in the morning and throughout the day when you need to remain alert and functional. Because phenylephrine can occasionally cause mild stimulation, taking a day tablet too close to bedtime may make it harder to fall asleep — so try to take your last daytime dose at least a couple of hours before bed.

The night tablets should be taken immediately before you get into bed. Diphenhydramine acts relatively quickly, so you don't want to be up and about once you've taken them. Timing the night dose correctly helps you get the most benefit from the sedating effect.

How Long Can You Use Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief For?

This medicine is intended for short-term use only. Do not take it for more than 5 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. If your symptoms have not improved after 5 days, or if they worsen at any point, seek medical advice promptly — a persistent fever or worsening symptoms may indicate a secondary bacterial infection or another condition that needs assessment.

Long-term or excessive use of decongestants can occasionally lead to rebound nasal congestion, and prolonged paracetamol use above recommended doses carries a risk of liver damage. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.

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 Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

Most people tolerate Benylin Day & Night tablets well, but some side effects can occur. The night tablets are more likely to cause side effects than the day tablets, largely because of the diphenhydramine they contain.

  • Drowsiness or sedation (particularly with night tablets)
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Headache

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Benylin Day & Night Tablets?

Less frequently, some people experience side effects related to the antihistamine or decongestant components of the formula. These are not dangerous for most people but should be monitored.

  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Blurred vision
  • Palpitations or a faster-than-normal heartbeat
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Restlessness or excitability (more common in older adults with diphenhydramine)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the tablets straight away and call 999 or go to A&E if you experience any of the following:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  • Signs of liver problems — yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe abdominal pain

If you have taken more than the recommended dose of paracetamol — even accidentally — go to A&E immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as liver damage from paracetamol overdose may not be obvious for 24 to 72 hours.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as dry mouth or nausea, these often settle on their own as your body adjusts. Staying well hydrated and taking the tablets with food can help reduce stomach discomfort. If drowsiness from the night tablets persists into the following day and affects your ability to function safely, do not drive and speak to your pharmacist about whether this medicine is still appropriate for you.

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

Can Benylin Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — interactions are possible and some are clinically significant. The most important ones to be aware of are listed below. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine you are taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

  • Other paracetamol-containing products — risk of accidental overdose; never combine
  • MAOIs — serious and potentially life-threatening interaction; do not take within 14 days of stopping an MAOI
  • Antihypertensives — phenylephrine may reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure medicines
  • Sedatives, sleeping tablets, or alcohol — increased sedation with night tablets
  • Warfarin — prolonged paracetamol use may enhance anticoagulant effect; monitor INR if applicable
  • Tricyclic antidepressants — may interact with diphenhydramine to increase anticholinergic effects

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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