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Day Nurse Tablets - 18 Tablets

Day Nurse Tablets - 18 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Relieves cold and flu fever, headache, and sore throat
  • ✔️ Clears nasal congestion with pseudoephedrine decongestant
  • ✔️ Calms dry, tickly cough with pholcodine antitussive
  • ✔️ Non-drowsy formula suitable for daytime use
  • ✔️ Three-in-one action targets multiple symptoms simultaneously

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What Are Day Nurse Tablets and How Do They Help?

 

When a cold or flu hits during the working day, you need something that tackles multiple symptoms at once without leaving you feeling drowsy or unable to function. Day Nurse Tablets are a well-established, three-in-one daytime cold and flu remedy from Haleon, designed to relieve the cluster of symptoms that make you feel so rough — fever, headache, nasal congestion, sore throat, and a dry, irritating cough. Each pack contains 18 tablets, giving you enough for a full course of treatment. If you're looking for broader cold and flu support, you can explore the full range in our cold and flu collection.

Cold and flu 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 the symptoms in the first few days can be genuinely debilitating. Day Nurse Tablets are formulated specifically for daytime use, meaning they're designed to let you get on with your day while your body fights the infection.

 

How Do Day Nurse Tablets Work to Relieve Symptoms?

 

The effectiveness of Day Nurse Tablets comes from three active ingredients working together, each targeting a different symptom:

  • Paracetamol 500mg — reduces fever and relieves pain including headache, sore throat, and body aches by blocking the production of prostaglandins in the brain and nervous system.
  • Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30mg — a sympathomimetic decongestant that works by constricting the blood vessels in the nasal lining, reducing swelling and congestion so you can breathe more easily.
  • Pholcodine 7mg — a centrally acting cough suppressant that reduces the urge to cough by acting on the cough centre in the brain. It is particularly useful for dry, tickly coughs that don't produce mucus.

Together, these three ingredients address the most disruptive daytime cold and flu symptoms in a single tablet. There's no antihistamine in the formula, which is why it's less likely to cause drowsiness compared to some night-time cold remedies.

 

Who Is Day Nurse Tablets Suitable For?

 

Day Nurse Tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms during the day. They're particularly useful if you need to remain alert and functional — at work, for example, or while caring for others. That said, they're not appropriate for everyone.

  • Adults and young people aged 12 and over with cold or flu symptoms
  • People experiencing a combination of fever, congestion, headache, and dry cough
  • Those who need daytime symptom relief without significant sedation
  • Individuals who are not taking other paracetamol-containing medicines

 

How Do Day Nurse Tablets Compare to Night Nurse Capsules?

 

Feature Day Nurse Tablets Night Nurse Capsules
Active ingredients Paracetamol, Pseudoephedrine, Pholcodine Paracetamol, Promethazine, Dextromethorphan
Causes drowsiness? Less likely Yes — intended for night use
Suitable for daytime use? Yes No
Cough type targeted Dry, tickly cough Dry cough

 

How Should Day Nurse Tablets Be Stored?

 

Store Day Nurse Tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep them out of the reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're also managing other symptoms like aches and pains separately, our pain relief collection has a range of options to complement your recovery.

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.

Day Nurse Tablets 18 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Cold and Flu
Mechanism of action Analgesic/antipyretic (paracetamol), sympathomimetic decongestant (pseudoephedrine), centrally acting cough suppressant (pholcodine)
Effective for Fever, headache, nasal congestion, sore throat, dry cough
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredients Paracetamol 500mg, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30mg, Pholcodine 7mg
Pack size 18 tablets
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Analgesic, decongestant, antitussive combination
Preparation Tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Day Nurse Tablets 18 Tablets

 

What Are Day Nurse Tablets and What Are They Used For?

 

Day Nurse Tablets are an over-the-counter combination medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu in adults and children aged 12 and over. Each tablet contains three active ingredients — paracetamol, pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, and pholcodine — which work together to reduce fever, ease pain, clear nasal congestion, and calm a dry cough. They are intended for daytime use only and should not be taken alongside Night Nurse or any other cold and flu product containing the same active ingredients.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Day Nurse Tablets?

 

Before taking Day Nurse Tablets, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not take these tablets if any of the following apply:

  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You are allergic to paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, pholcodine, or any other ingredient in the tablets
  • You are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
  • You have severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension)
  • You have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
  • You have severe liver or kidney disease
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding — consult your doctor first
  • You have a productive (chesty) cough — pholcodine is not appropriate for this type of cough

You should also be aware of the following potential drug interactions:

  • Other medicines containing paracetamol — risk of overdose
  • Tricyclic antidepressants and other sympathomimetics — may increase cardiovascular effects of pseudoephedrine
  • Antihypertensive medicines — pseudoephedrine may reduce their effectiveness
  • Warfarin — regular use of paracetamol may enhance anticoagulant effect

 

How Should You Use Day Nurse Tablets Correctly?

 

  1. Read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before taking any tablets.
  2. Swallow 2 tablets whole with a full glass of water.
  3. Do not crush or chew the tablets.
  4. Wait at least 4 to 6 hours before taking your next dose.
  5. Do not take more than 4 doses (8 tablets) in any 24-hour period.
  6. Do not take for more than 5 days without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum in 24 hours
Adults and children aged 12+ 2 tablets Every 4–6 hours 4 doses (8 tablets)
Children under 12 Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Day Nurse Tablets?

 

Like all medicines, Day Nurse Tablets can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you're also managing other health concerns alongside your cold, our ear, nose and throat collection includes additional products that may help.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Dry mouth

Less common side effects:

  • Increased heart rate (palpitations)
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Headache
  • Skin rash or allergic reaction
  • Urinary retention (particularly in men with prostate problems)

Stop taking Day Nurse Tablets and seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash.

 

How Should You Store Day Nurse Tablets Safely?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the quality and safety of your tablets. Follow these guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • 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
  • Return unused or expired tablets to your pharmacist for safe disposal — do not flush them down the toilet or throw them in household waste

If you're building a home medicine cabinet for cold season, it's worth also stocking up on vitamins and supplements to support your immune system between illnesses.

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 Day Nurse Tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Day Nurse Tablets online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £7.49 per pack of 18 tablets. They are also available from most high street pharmacies without a prescription. As a Pharmacy (P) medicine, they may require a brief consultation before purchase from some retailers.

How do Day Nurse Tablets work in the body?

Day Nurse Tablets contain three active ingredients that each target a different symptom. Paracetamol reduces fever and relieves pain, pseudoephedrine hydrochloride constricts nasal blood vessels to ease congestion, and pholcodine suppresses the cough reflex centrally in the brain. Together, they provide multi-symptom relief without causing significant drowsiness.

How do I take Day Nurse Tablets step by step?

Take 2 tablets with a full glass of water every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not take more than 4 doses in any 24-hour period, and do not crush or chew the tablets. Always read the patient information leaflet before starting treatment.

What is the maximum dose of Day Nurse Tablets in 24 hours?

The maximum dose is 2 tablets taken up to 4 times in a 24-hour period, giving a maximum of 8 tablets per day. Exceeding this limit increases the risk of paracetamol overdose, which can cause serious liver damage. If you accidentally take too many tablets, seek medical attention immediately even if you feel well.

Can I take Day Nurse Tablets with other cold and flu medicines?

No — you must not take Day Nurse Tablets alongside any other product containing paracetamol, as this significantly increases the risk of overdose. This includes many other cold remedies, pain relief tablets, and some prescription medicines. Always check the ingredients label of any other medicine you are taking before combining treatments.

Who should not take Day Nurse Tablets?

Day Nurse Tablets are not suitable for children under 12, people taking MAOIs, or those with severe hypertension, hyperthyroidism, or significant liver or kidney impairment. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should speak to their doctor before use. People with heart disease, diabetes, or an enlarged prostate should also seek advice before taking them.

What are the common side effects of Day Nurse Tablets?

Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, and difficulty sleeping. Pseudoephedrine can occasionally cause a faster heartbeat or a slight rise in blood pressure, particularly in people who are sensitive to stimulants. If side effects are troublesome or persistent, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist.

How long can I take Day Nurse Tablets for?

Day Nurse Tablets should not be used for more than 5 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. If your symptoms have not improved after 5 days, or if they worsen at any point, you should seek medical advice. Prolonged use without review is not recommended.

Can I take Day Nurse Tablets if I am pregnant?

You should not take Day Nurse Tablets during pregnancy without first speaking to your doctor or midwife. While paracetamol is generally considered the safest painkiller in pregnancy, pseudoephedrine and pholcodine are not recommended during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider can advise on the safest options for managing cold symptoms while pregnant.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Day Nurse Tablets?

It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking Day Nurse Tablets. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage when combined with paracetamol, particularly if you drink regularly or in large amounts. Alcohol may also worsen some side effects such as dizziness.

Are Day Nurse Tablets suitable for children?

Day Nurse Tablets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age. For younger children with cold and flu symptoms, speak to your pharmacist about age-appropriate alternatives. You can also browse our baby and toddler collection for suitable products for younger children.

What happens if I miss a dose of Day Nurse Tablets?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next dose when it is due — do not double up to make up for a missed one. Day Nurse Tablets are taken as needed for symptom relief rather than on a strict schedule, so missing a dose is not usually a concern. Just ensure you maintain the minimum 4-hour gap between doses.

What are the alternatives to Day Nurse Tablets for cold and flu?

Alternatives include Lemsip Max Cold and Flu capsules, Sudafed Non-Drowsy Decongestant tablets, or single-ingredient products such as paracetamol for fever and pain. The right choice depends on your specific symptoms. Browse our full cold and flu collection to compare available options.

Can I drive after taking Day Nurse Tablets?

Day Nurse Tablets are less likely to cause drowsiness than night-time cold remedies because they do not contain an antihistamine. However, some people may still experience dizziness or light-headedness. If you feel affected in any way, do not drive or operate heavy machinery.

What is the latest guidance on using pholcodine-containing medicines?

The MHRA issued guidance in 2023 advising that pholcodine-containing medicines should not be used by people who are scheduled to receive general anaesthesia within 12 months, due to a potential increased risk of anaphylaxis to neuromuscular blocking agents. If you are due to have surgery, inform your anaesthetist and speak to your pharmacist before taking Day Nurse Tablets. This guidance applies to all pholcodine-containing products available in the UK.

How Should You Use Day Nurse Tablets?

Day Nurse Tablets are taken orally with a full glass of water. Always swallow the tablets whole — do not crush, chew, or break them. Read the patient information leaflet enclosed in the pack before you start, and check that no other medicines you are taking contain paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, or pholcodine.

What Is the Correct Dose of Day Nurse Tablets?

The correct dose depends on your age. Day Nurse Tablets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age under any circumstances. For everyone aged 12 and over, the dose is the same — 2 tablets per dose, up to four times daily.

When Is the Best Time to Use Day Nurse Tablets?

Day Nurse Tablets are specifically formulated for daytime use. Take your first dose in the morning when symptoms begin, and space subsequent doses evenly throughout the day. Avoid taking a dose too close to bedtime — if you need overnight symptom relief, a separate night-time cold remedy may be more appropriate, but never take both products simultaneously.

Taking the tablets with or after food may help reduce the chance of stomach upset, particularly if you find nausea is an issue.

How Long Can You Use Day Nurse Tablets For?

Day Nurse Tablets are intended for short-term use only. Do not take them for more than 5 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor. Most cold and flu symptoms begin to improve within 3 to 5 days, but if yours are getting worse rather than better, or if you develop a high fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice promptly.

Long-term or excessive use of pseudoephedrine-containing products is not recommended, and prolonged use of paracetamol beyond the stated dose can cause liver damage. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary.

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

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Day Nurse Tablets?

Most people tolerate Day Nurse Tablets well when taken as directed, but some individuals do experience side effects. The most commonly reported ones are linked to the pseudoephedrine component, which has a mild stimulant effect on the body.

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Difficulty sleeping or restlessness
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Headache

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Day Nurse Tablets?

Less common side effects tend to be cardiovascular in nature, again related to pseudoephedrine's sympathomimetic action. These are more likely to occur in people who are sensitive to stimulants or who have underlying heart or blood pressure conditions.

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

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Day Nurse Tablets?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Paracetamol overdose — which can occur if you accidentally take too much or combine Day Nurse Tablets with other paracetamol-containing products — can cause severe liver damage. Symptoms of overdose may not appear immediately, which is why you should seek emergency help even if you feel well after taking too much.

A serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is also possible, though uncommon. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, a rapid heartbeat, or a sudden drop in blood pressure. If you experience any of these, call 999 immediately.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as nausea or difficulty sleeping, try taking the tablets with food and avoid taking a dose close to bedtime. If side effects are persistent, bothersome, or worsening, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP. Do not simply increase the dose or take additional medicines without professional advice.

In the event of a suspected overdose — even if you feel fine — go to your nearest A&E department or call 111 immediately. Always take the medicine packaging with you so healthcare staff can see exactly what you have taken.

Can Day Nurse Tablets Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Day Nurse Tablets have several clinically important interactions. The most significant is with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) — taking pseudoephedrine within 14 days of an MAOI can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Other interactions include warfarin (paracetamol may enhance its anticoagulant effect with regular use), antihypertensive medicines (pseudoephedrine may reduce their effectiveness), and tricyclic antidepressants. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking before starting Day Nurse Tablets.

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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