Cymalon Cystitis Relief - 6 Sachets

What Are Cystitis Relief Sachets and How Can They Help?

If you've ever had cystitis, you'll know just how uncomfortable it can be. That urgent, frequent need to urinate — combined with a burning or stinging sensation — can make even a normal day feel miserable. Cystitis relief sachets like Cymalon offer a fast-acting, over-the-counter option to ease those symptoms while your body works through the infection. Each pack contains 6 sachets, giving you a full two-day course at just £5.39. You can browse our full range of cystitis and bladder infection treatments if you'd like to compare your options.

Cystitis is one of the most common urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women, affecting millions of people in the UK every year. According to the NHS, most cases are caused by bacteria — usually Escherichia coli — entering the urethra and bladder. Symptoms typically include a burning sensation when passing urine, needing to urinate more often than usual, and urine that appears cloudy or smells strongly.

How Does Cymalon Cystitis Relief Work in the Body?

Cymalon's active ingredient is sodium citrate (4g per sachet). It works by alkalising the urine — in other words, it raises the pH of your urine, making it less acidic. Acidic urine is what causes that characteristic burning and stinging when you urinate during a bout of cystitis. By neutralising that acidity, Cymalon helps reduce the discomfort while your immune system (or any prescribed antibiotics) addresses the underlying cause.

• Sodium citrate is absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream
• It is then excreted by the kidneys into the urine
• This raises urinary pH, reducing the irritation to the bladder lining and urethra
• Symptom relief — particularly reduced burning — can begin within a few hours

It's worth noting that Cymalon treats symptoms only. It does not kill bacteria or cure the infection itself. If your symptoms persist beyond 2 days, or if you develop a fever, back pain, or feel generally unwell, you should contact your GP promptly.

Who Is Cymalon Cystitis Relief Suitable For?

Cymalon is designed for adults and young people aged 16 and over who are experiencing the typical symptoms of mild, uncomplicated cystitis. It is particularly well-suited to women, who are statistically far more likely to develop cystitis due to the shorter length of the female urethra. That said, it's always worth checking with a pharmacist before use if you have any existing health conditions.

• Women aged 16 and over with mild cystitis symptoms
• Those who have had cystitis before and recognise the symptoms
• People looking for fast symptomatic relief while awaiting a GP appointment
• Those who prefer a non-antibiotic first-line option for mild cases

How Does Cymalon Compare to Other Cystitis Treatments?

Is Cymalon Safe to Store at Home and Use When Needed?

Yes — Cymalon sachets are straightforward to store. Keep them below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, and out of the reach of children. The sachets are individually sealed, making them easy to carry in a bag or keep in a bathroom cabinet for when symptoms strike. If you're managing other aspects of your health alongside cystitis, you might also find our women's health range useful for related products.

As with any medicine, check the expiry date before use. Do not use sachets from a damaged or previously opened pack. These cystitis relief sachets are a medicine — speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Cymalon Cystitis Relief and What Is It Used For?

Cymalon Cystitis Relief is an over-the-counter urinary alkalinising medicine containing sodium citrate 4g per sachet. It is used to relieve the painful symptoms of cystitis in adults and young people aged 16 and over. These symptoms include a burning or stinging sensation when passing urine, a frequent and urgent need to urinate, and general discomfort in the lower abdomen. Cymalon does not treat the bacterial infection itself — it works by making the urine less acidic, which reduces irritation to the bladder and urethra.

Cystitis is extremely common, particularly in women. The NHS notes that around half of all women will experience at least one episode of cystitis in their lifetime. Cymalon is intended for short-term symptomatic relief only and should not be used as a substitute for medical assessment if symptoms are severe or recurring.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Cymalon Cystitis Relief?

Before using Cymalon, it's important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not use this product if any of the following apply:

• You are allergic to sodium citrate or any other ingredient in the sachets
• You have kidney disease or impaired kidney function
• You have heart disease or high blood pressure
• You are on a sodium-restricted (low-salt) diet
• You are under 16 years of age
• You are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek GP advice first)
• You have symptoms suggesting a kidney infection — such as fever, back or loin pain, nausea, or vomiting

You should also be aware of potential interactions with other medicines. Sodium citrate can affect how certain drugs are processed by the kidneys. Known interactions include:

• Lithium — sodium citrate may increase lithium excretion, potentially reducing its effectiveness
• Some antibiotics — always inform your pharmacist if you are already taking a course of antibiotics for a UTI
• Medicines that are sensitive to urinary pH changes — ask your pharmacist if you are unsure

How Should You Use Cymalon Cystitis Relief?

Using Cymalon is simple, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully to get the most benefit and avoid any unwanted effects. Drinking plenty of water alongside the sachets is strongly recommended — the NHS advises staying well hydrated during a bout of cystitis.

1. Empty one sachet into a glass containing approximately 200ml (a full glass) of cold or warm water
2. Stir well until the granules are fully dissolved
3. Drink the entire contents of the glass
4. Repeat every 8 hours as needed
5. Do not take more than 3 sachets in any 24-hour period
6. Do not use for more than 2 days without seeking medical advice

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Cymalon Cystitis Relief?

Like all medicines, Cymalon can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most people tolerate it well when used as directed. If you're also managing other conditions, you might find it helpful to explore our pain relief range for additional comfort measures during recovery.

• Common side effects:
  • Mild stomach upset or discomfort
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhoea (particularly if taken in large amounts)
• Less common side effects:
  • Bloating or flatulence
  • Raised sodium levels in the blood (hypernatraemia) — more likely in those with kidney or heart conditions, which is why these groups should avoid this product

Stop using Cymalon and seek medical advice if you experience any severe or unexpected symptoms. If you develop signs of an allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a skin rash — seek emergency medical attention immediately.

How Should You Store Cymalon Cystitis Relief?

Proper storage helps maintain the quality and safety of the product. Follow these guidelines:

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
• Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging
• Do not use sachets that appear damaged or have been previously opened
• Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused sachets to your local pharmacy

If you're looking for further support with urinary health or related conditions, our women's health collection includes a range of products to help you manage your wellbeing day to day.