Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Film Coated 16 Tablets

Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Film Coated 16 Tablets

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Relieves nasal congestion, headache, and fever simultaneously
  • ✔️ Dual-action formula: ibuprofen plus pseudoephedrine in one tablet
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over
  • ✔️ Film-coated tablets for easier swallowing and stomach comfort
  • ✔️ 16 tablets per pack — affordable cold and flu relief at £2.49

Price Checker

Regular price £2.49
Sale price £2.49
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

What Are Cold and Flu Relief Tablets and Do They Work?

 

When a cold or flu hits, it rarely arrives with just one symptom. You get the blocked nose, the thumping headache, the aching limbs — all at once. Cold and flu relief tablets like Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Film Coated 16 Tablets are designed to tackle that combination in a single dose. Each film-coated tablet contains two active ingredients: ibuprofen 200mg and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 5mg, working together to address both the inflammatory symptoms and the nasal congestion that make colds so miserable. At just £2.49 for 16 tablets, this is a practical, affordable option to keep in your medicine cabinet. You can browse the full range of products in our cold and flu collection for more options.

Cold and flu are among the most common reasons people seek over-the-counter (OTC) medicines in the UK. The NHS notes that most colds clear up within 7 to 10 days, but symptoms can be genuinely debilitating in the meantime. Having a reliable dual-action tablet on hand can make a real difference to how you feel day to day.

 

How Do Care Cold & Flu Relief Tablets Work?

 

This product works through two distinct but complementary mechanisms. Understanding what each ingredient does helps you use the tablets more confidently.

  • Ibuprofen 200mg — a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that inhibits cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins. This lowers fever (antipyretic effect), relieves pain (analgesic effect), and reduces inflammation.
  • Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 5mg — a sympathomimetic amine that acts on alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa, causing vasoconstriction. This shrinks swollen blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing congestion and improving airflow.
  • Together, these two ingredients address the root causes of cold and flu discomfort rather than masking a single symptom.
  • The film coating makes the tablets easier to swallow and helps protect the stomach lining slightly, though taking them with food is still recommended.

 

Who Should Use Care Cold & Flu Relief Tablets?

 

These tablets are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing the typical cluster of cold or flu symptoms. They are particularly useful when congestion and pain or fever are both present at the same time, making a single-ingredient product insufficient.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with cold or flu symptoms including nasal congestion, headache, and fever
  • Adolescents aged 12–17 (under adult supervision, following age-appropriate dosing)
  • People who want a convenient dual-action OTC option without needing separate tablets
  • Those who have previously tolerated ibuprofen and decongestant medicines without adverse effects

They are not suitable for children under 12, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with certain cardiovascular, renal, or hepatic conditions. See the contraindications section below for full details.

 

How Does Care Cold & Flu Relief Compare to Paracetamol-Based Cold Remedies?

 

Feature Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Paracetamol-Based Cold Remedy
Active ingredients Ibuprofen + Pseudoephedrine Paracetamol ± Phenylephrine
Anti-inflammatory action Yes (NSAID) No
Decongestant included Yes (Pseudoephedrine) Sometimes (Phenylephrine)
Suitable for stomach sensitivity Take with food; caution advised Generally better tolerated
Suitable for age 12+ Yes Varies by product

 

How Should You Store Care Cold & Flu Relief Tablets?

 

Store these tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. 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 are managing multiple OTC medicines at home, it is worth checking our pain relief collection to ensure you are not doubling up on ibuprofen or other NSAIDs inadvertently.

These cold and flu relief tablets should be kept in their original blister packaging until use. Do not transfer them to another container, as this can affect the integrity of the film coating and make it harder to track the expiry date.

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.

Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Film Coated 16 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Cold and flu relief
Mechanism of action NSAID (ibuprofen) + sympathomimetic decongestant (pseudoephedrine)
Effective for Nasal congestion, headache, fever, body aches associated with cold and flu
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredient Ibuprofen 200mg, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 5mg
Pack size 16 tablets
Strengths 200mg / 5mg per tablet
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class NSAID + Sympathomimetic amine
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Film Coated 16 Tablets

 

What Is Care Cold & Flu Relief and What Is It Used For?

 

Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Film Coated 16 Tablets is an over-the-counter combination medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and influenza. It contains ibuprofen, which reduces fever, pain, and inflammation, alongside pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, a nasal decongestant. Together, they target the most disruptive symptoms — blocked nose, sinus pressure, headache, sore throat discomfort, and raised temperature — in a single tablet. It is intended for short-term use only and is not a treatment for the underlying viral infection itself.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Care Cold & Flu Relief?

 

Before taking these tablets, it is important to check whether they are appropriate for you. The ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine components each carry their own set of contraindications and potential interactions.

Do not take these tablets if you:

  • Are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, pseudoephedrine, or any other NSAID
  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have or have had a stomach ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or Crohn's disease
  • Have severe heart disease, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a history of stroke
  • Have severe kidney or liver impairment
  • Are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
  • Have an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) or closed-angle glaucoma
  • Have difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate

Medicines that may interact with these tablets include:

  • Other NSAIDs (e.g. aspirin, naproxen) — increased risk of gastrointestinal side effects
  • Antihypertensives (e.g. beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors) — ibuprofen may reduce their effectiveness
  • Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) — ibuprofen may increase bleeding risk
  • Other sympathomimetics or decongestants — additive cardiovascular effects
  • Tricyclic antidepressants — may enhance the pressor effect of pseudoephedrine
  • Lithium — ibuprofen may increase lithium plasma levels

If you are unsure whether any of your current medicines interact with this product, speak to your pharmacist before taking it. You can also explore our ear, nose and throat collection for alternative products that may be more suitable for your situation.

 

How Should You Use Care Cold & Flu Relief?

 

Always take these tablets exactly as directed on the packaging. Swallow them whole with a full glass of water. Taking them with or after food reduces the risk of stomach upset, which is particularly important with ibuprofen-containing products.

  1. Check you are not allergic to any of the ingredients before taking your first dose.
  2. Take one or two tablets with a full glass of water.
  3. Take with or after food to protect your stomach.
  4. Wait at least four hours before taking your next dose.
  5. Do not exceed six tablets in any 24-hour period.
  6. Do not take for more than three days without consulting a pharmacist or GP.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum Daily Dose
Adults (18+) 1–2 tablets Up to 3 times daily 6 tablets (1200mg ibuprofen)
Adolescents (12–17) 1–2 tablets Up to 3 times daily 6 tablets (under adult supervision)
Children under 12 Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Care Cold & Flu Relief?

 

Like all medicines, these tablets can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The pseudoephedrine component in particular can cause stimulant-type effects in some people.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • Dry mouth

Less common side effects:

  • Palpitations or increased heart rate
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Anxiety or restlessness
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Urinary retention (particularly in men with prostate issues)

Stop taking the tablets and seek medical advice immediately if you experience chest pain, severe skin reactions, swelling of the face or throat, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding such as dark stools or vomiting blood. These are rare but serious reactions that require prompt attention.

 

How Should You Store Care Cold & Flu Relief?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Keep in the original blister packaging until use
  • Keep out of reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

If you are looking to support your recovery from illness more broadly, our vitamins and supplements collection includes products such as vitamin C and zinc that are commonly used during cold and flu season.

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 Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Film Coated 16 Tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. No prescription is needed as this is an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine. Browse our full cold and flu collection for this and similar products.

How do Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets work in the body?

Each tablet contains ibuprofen 200mg, an NSAID that reduces fever, pain, and inflammation by inhibiting COX enzymes, and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 5mg, a decongestant that narrows blood vessels in the nasal passages to relieve congestion. The two ingredients work together to address multiple cold and flu symptoms simultaneously. This dual-action approach means you do not need to take separate tablets for pain and congestion.

How do I take Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets step by step?

Take one to two tablets with a full glass of water, ideally with or after food to reduce the chance of stomach upset. Leave at least four hours between each dose and do not take more than six tablets in any 24-hour period. If your symptoms have not improved after three days, stop taking the tablets and speak to a pharmacist or GP.

What is the correct dose of Care Cold & Flu Relief for adults?

Adults and young people aged 12 and over should take one to two tablets up to three times a day, with a minimum gap of four hours between doses. The maximum dose is six tablets in 24 hours, which equates to 1,200mg of ibuprofen. Never exceed this limit, as doing so increases the risk of serious side effects including gastrointestinal bleeding.

What is the best time to take Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets?

There is no single "best" time, but taking a dose when symptoms are at their worst — often in the morning or early evening — tends to give the most relief. Always take them with food to protect your stomach lining. Avoid taking a dose too close to bedtime, as pseudoephedrine can cause difficulty sleeping in some people.

What are the side effects of Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets?

Common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, and difficulty sleeping. Less commonly, some people experience palpitations, raised blood pressure, anxiety, or urinary retention. If you notice any severe or unusual symptoms — such as chest pain, swelling of the face, or dark stools — stop taking the tablets immediately and seek medical advice.

How do I manage side effects of Care Cold & Flu Relief?

Taking the tablets with food can help reduce nausea and stomach discomfort caused by ibuprofen. If you experience insomnia due to pseudoephedrine, try taking your last dose of the day earlier in the afternoon rather than in the evening. For mild side effects that persist, speak to your pharmacist — they may suggest an alternative product from our ear, nose and throat range.

Who should not take Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets?

These tablets are not suitable for children under 12, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with severe kidney, liver, or heart disease. They should also be avoided by anyone taking MAOIs, other NSAIDs, or antihypertensive medicines without medical supervision. People with hyperthyroidism, closed-angle glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate should also avoid this product.

Can I take Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets with paracetamol?

Ibuprofen and paracetamol can generally be taken together as they work through different mechanisms, and the NHS sometimes recommends alternating them for pain relief. However, you should not take these tablets alongside other cold and flu products that already contain paracetamol, as this risks accidental overdose. Always check the ingredients of any other medicines you are taking before combining them.

Can I take Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets if I have high blood pressure?

You should use caution if you have high blood pressure, as both ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine can raise blood pressure or reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medicines. Speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking this product if you have a diagnosed cardiovascular condition. There may be more suitable alternatives available for your situation.

What happens if I miss a dose of Care Cold & Flu Relief?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next one when needed — but make sure at least four hours have passed since your last tablet. Do not double up on doses to compensate for a missed one. These tablets are taken as needed for symptom relief, so there is no strict schedule to follow as long as you stay within the maximum daily limit.

How long can I take Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets for?

These tablets are intended for short-term use only — no more than three days without medical advice. If your symptoms persist beyond three days, worsen, or are accompanied by a high fever, difficulty breathing, or a severe sore throat, you should consult a GP. Prolonged use of ibuprofen without medical supervision carries risks including gastrointestinal and renal complications.

What are the alternatives to Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets?

Alternatives include paracetamol-based cold and flu remedies, which may be better tolerated by people with stomach sensitivity or those who cannot take NSAIDs. Standalone decongestant nasal sprays are another option for congestion without the systemic effects of oral pseudoephedrine. You can explore a range of options in our cold and flu collection to find the most suitable product for your symptoms.

Are Care Cold & Flu Relief tablets suitable for children?

These tablets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age. For younger children with cold and flu symptoms, age-appropriate liquid formulations of paracetamol or ibuprofen are recommended instead. Always check the product labelling and speak to a pharmacist if you are unsure which product is right for your child's age and weight.

What are the latest findings on ibuprofen and pseudoephedrine for cold and flu relief?

Ibuprofen remains one of the most widely studied OTC analgesics and antipyretics, with a well-established safety profile when used as directed. Pseudoephedrine is considered more effective than phenylephrine as an oral nasal decongestant, based on clinical evidence reviewed by regulatory bodies. Both ingredients are recognised by the NHS and MHRA as appropriate for short-term symptomatic relief of cold and flu in eligible adults.

How Should You Use Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Tablets?

These tablets are taken orally with a full glass of water. Always read the label carefully before use and follow the steps below to get the most from each dose while minimising the risk of side effects.

If you have difficulty swallowing tablets, speak to your pharmacist before use. Do not split or crush the film-coated tablets, as this may affect how the medicine is absorbed.

What Is the Correct Dose of Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Tablets?

The dose depends on your age. Adults and adolescents aged 12 and over can take one to two tablets per dose, up to three times daily. The table below summarises the recommended dosing by age group.

The maximum daily dose of ibuprofen from this product is 1,200mg (six tablets). Do not combine with other ibuprofen-containing products, as this will push you over the safe daily limit.

When Is the Best Time to Use Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Tablets?

Take a dose when your symptoms are most troublesome — this is often in the morning when congestion and aching tend to peak, or in the early afternoon. Because pseudoephedrine can cause stimulant effects including difficulty sleeping, it is generally advisable to avoid taking a dose within four to six hours of going to bed. Spacing your doses evenly throughout the waking day helps maintain consistent symptom relief without disrupting your sleep.

If you are taking the tablets alongside meals, breakfast and lunch are ideal times for the first two doses of the day, with a third dose in the early evening if needed.

How Long Can You Use Care Cold & Flu Relief 200mg/5mg Tablets For?

These tablets are intended for short-term use only. Do not take them for more than three consecutive days without seeking advice from a pharmacist or GP. Most cold and flu symptoms begin to improve within this timeframe. If your symptoms persist beyond three days, worsen significantly, or are accompanied by a high fever, severe sore throat, chest pain, or shortness of breath, you should seek medical attention promptly rather than continuing to self-medicate.

Prolonged use of ibuprofen without medical supervision carries risks including gastrointestinal irritation, renal impairment, and cardiovascular effects. Pseudoephedrine should also not be used long-term due to its cardiovascular stimulant properties.

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

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Care Cold & Flu Relief Tablets?

Most people tolerate these tablets well when taken as directed, but side effects can occur. The ibuprofen component is most likely to cause gastrointestinal effects, while pseudoephedrine tends to produce stimulant-type reactions in some individuals.

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)

Taking the tablets with food and a full glass of water significantly reduces the likelihood of stomach-related side effects. If nausea persists, speak to your pharmacist.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Care Cold & Flu Relief Tablets?

Some people experience less frequent side effects, particularly those related to the pseudoephedrine component. These are more likely in people who are sensitive to stimulant medicines or who take a higher dose.

  • Palpitations or a noticeably faster heartbeat
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Anxiety or restlessness
  • Tremor
  • Urinary retention (particularly in men with an enlarged prostate)
  • Skin rash or itching

If you notice any of these effects and they are troublesome or persistent, stop taking the tablets and consult your pharmacist or GP.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Care Cold & Flu Relief Tablets?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Ibuprofen, like all NSAIDs, carries a small risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly with prolonged use or in people with a history of stomach ulcers. Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding include dark or tarry stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain.

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are also possible, though uncommon. Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. If you experience any of these, call 999 immediately.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Care Cold & Flu Relief?

For mild side effects such as nausea or headache, taking the tablets with food and staying well hydrated is usually sufficient. If you experience insomnia, try taking your last dose earlier in the day. For any side effect that is severe, unexpected, or does not resolve, stop taking the tablets and seek advice from a pharmacist or GP. You can report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Care Cold & Flu Relief Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — both active ingredients have known interactions. Ibuprofen can reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medicines, increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants such as warfarin, and raise lithium plasma levels. Pseudoephedrine should never be taken within 14 days of stopping an MAOI, as this combination can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure. It may also interact with tricyclic antidepressants and other sympathomimetic agents. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking before starting this product.

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

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery