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FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test (1 test kit)

FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test (1 test kit)

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  • ✔️ Detects SARS-CoV-2 antigens with 93.3% clinical sensitivity
  • ✔️ Delivers a clear positive or negative result in 15 minutes
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children with or without symptoms
  • ✔️ Single nasal swab — no throat swab required
  • ✔️ CE-marked lateral flow device for reliable home use

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What Is a Rapid Covid Test and How Does FlowFlex Work?

 

Feeling under the weather and wondering whether it could be COVID-19? The rapid covid test from FlowFlex gives you a clear answer in just 15 minutes, right from the comfort of your own home. Available from Cured Pharmacy for just £2.99, this single-use antigen lateral flow test is designed for adults and children who want a quick, reliable way to check for a current SARS-CoV-2 infection. It requires no laboratory equipment and no prescription — just a simple nasal swab and a short wait. If you're also managing other health concerns alongside respiratory symptoms, you might find our cold and flu range useful for symptom relief while you await your result.

Lateral flow antigen tests like this one have been widely used across the UK since the pandemic began. The NHS has recommended their use for people with symptoms and for regular testing in certain settings. Understanding how to use the test correctly — and how to interpret the result — is key to getting the most out of it.

 

How Does the FlowFlex Antigen Test Detect COVID-19?

 

The FlowFlex test uses lateral flow immunoassay technology to detect SARS-CoV-2 antigens directly from a nasal swab sample. Antigens are proteins found on the surface of the virus, and this test identifies them if they are present in sufficient quantity — which typically corresponds to a period of active, potentially infectious illness.

  • A nasal swab is inserted approximately 2.5 cm into each nostril and rotated gently to collect a sample.
  • The swab is then placed into a tube containing an extraction buffer solution and stirred to release the sample.
  • A few drops of the solution are applied to the test cassette's sample well.
  • The liquid migrates along the test strip, and if SARS-CoV-2 antigens are present, they bind to labelled antibodies, producing a visible coloured line at the T (test) position.
  • A control line at C must always appear to confirm the test has worked correctly.
  • Results are read at exactly 15 minutes — not before, not after.

 

Who Should Use the FlowFlex Rapid Antigen Test?

 

This test is suitable for a wide range of people. It is particularly useful if you have developed symptoms that could be consistent with COVID-19 — such as a new continuous cough, fever, or loss of taste or smell — and want to know quickly whether you are likely to be infectious. It is also used by people who have been in close contact with a confirmed case and want to check their own status before visiting vulnerable individuals.

  • Adults aged 18 and over who are symptomatic
  • Children and teenagers, with adult supervision for younger children
  • People who have been in close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case
  • Those who need to confirm their status before visiting elderly or immunocompromised relatives

 

How Does the FlowFlex Test Compare to Other Lateral Flow Tests?

 

Feature FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test Standard Lateral Flow Alternative
Result time 15 minutes 15–30 minutes
Sample type Nasal swab Nasal or throat/nasal combined
Reported sensitivity 93.3% Varies by brand (typically 76–97%)
Price per test £2.99 £3.00–£8.00+

 

How Should You Store the FlowFlex Test Kit?

 

Proper storage is essential to ensure the test performs as intended. Keep the kit in its original sealed pouch and store it below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze the kit — freezing can damage the reagents and render the test invalid. Always check the expiry date printed on the packaging before use, and never use a kit that has been opened or damaged.

If you are testing regularly as part of managing your health, it is worth keeping a small supply at home. You might also want to explore our electrical health and diagnostic range for other home monitoring tools that complement your health routine. This rapid covid test is a single-use device — each kit contains one test cassette, one swab, one extraction tube, one buffer solution vial, and one instruction leaflet.

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.

FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test specifications
Treatment category Diagnostic / Infectious disease testing
Mechanism of action Lateral flow immunoassay detecting SARS-CoV-2 antigens
Effective Results in 15 minutes
Suitable for Adults and children (children under 12 require adult assistance)
Active ingredient SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection reagents
Pack sizes 1 test kit
UK classification General Sale / CE-marked medical device
Preparation Lateral flow test cassette with nasal swab
Route of administration Nasal swab

Specifications of FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test

 

What Is the FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test and What Is It Used For?

 

The FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test is a single-use, in-vitro diagnostic medical device used to detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antigens in nasal swab samples. It is intended for use by individuals who wish to determine whether they are currently infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. The test is not a PCR test — it does not detect viral genetic material. Instead, it identifies specific proteins on the surface of the virus, which are typically present at detectable levels during the infectious period of illness.

According to NHS guidance, lateral flow tests are most accurate when used by people who have symptoms of COVID-19. They are less reliable when used in people without symptoms, as antigen levels may be lower and below the test's detection threshold. The NHS advises that a positive lateral flow result should be taken seriously, and individuals should follow current public health guidance accordingly.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using the FlowFlex Test?

 

Before using this test, read the full instruction leaflet included in the kit. There are some important considerations to be aware of:

  • Do not use the test if the foil pouch is damaged or already opened — the reagents may have been compromised.
  • Do not use the test after the expiry date printed on the packaging.
  • Do not eat, drink, smoke, or use nasal sprays for at least 30 minutes before testing, as these may affect the result.
  • This test is not intended to replace clinical diagnosis — a positive result should be confirmed by a healthcare professional if required for medical or legal purposes.
  • False negative results can occur, particularly early in infection when antigen levels are low.
  • False positive results, while uncommon, can also occur.
  • This test does not detect influenza, RSV, or other respiratory viruses — it is specific to SARS-CoV-2.

Drug interactions:

  • No known drug interactions — this is a diagnostic device, not a medicine.
  • Certain nasal medications (e.g. corticosteroid nasal sprays) should not be used immediately before testing as they may affect sample quality.

 

How Should You Use the FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test?

 

Using the test correctly is essential for an accurate result. Follow these steps carefully and work in a clean, well-lit area. Wash your hands thoroughly before you begin.

  1. Open the foil pouch and remove the test cassette, swab, extraction tube, and buffer vial.
  2. Snap open the buffer vial and pour the entire contents into the extraction tube.
  3. Carefully insert the swab approximately 2.5 cm into one nostril and rotate it 5 times against the nasal wall.
  4. Repeat the swabbing process in the other nostril using the same swab.
  5. Insert the swab into the extraction tube and stir it vigorously at least 10 times, then squeeze the tube walls while removing the swab to extract as much liquid as possible.
  6. Attach the nozzle cap to the extraction tube.
  7. Hold the test cassette flat and add exactly 3 drops of the extracted sample to the sample well (marked S).
  8. Wait exactly 15 minutes before reading the result. Do not read after 20 minutes.
Indication Age Group Dose (number of tests) Frequency
Symptomatic COVID-19 testing Adults and children 1 test Repeat after 24–48 hours if negative and symptoms persist
Contact tracing / exposure testing Adults and children 1 test As advised by public health guidance

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of the FlowFlex Test?

 

As a diagnostic device rather than a medicine, the FlowFlex test does not cause systemic side effects. However, there are some minor physical effects and result-related considerations to be aware of. If you experience any discomfort, stop and consult a healthcare professional. You can also browse our first aid range if you need support managing minor nasal irritation.

Common effects:

  • Mild nasal discomfort or tickling sensation during swabbing
  • Sneezing triggered by nasal swab insertion
  • Watery eyes during the swabbing process

Less common considerations:

  • Minor nasal bleeding in people with sensitive nasal passages — do not insert the swab forcefully
  • False positive result — a positive line appears despite no active infection (uncommon but possible)
  • False negative result — a negative result despite active infection, particularly early in illness
  • Invalid result — no control line appears, meaning the test must be discarded and repeated

 

How Should You Store the FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test?

 

Correct storage protects the integrity of the test components and ensures reliable results. If you are stocking up on tests for your household, our vitamins and supplements range is also worth exploring to support your immune health alongside regular testing.

  • Store at 2°C to 30°C — room temperature is suitable for most UK homes.
  • Do not freeze — freezing permanently damages the lateral flow membrane and reagents.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
  • Store in the original sealed foil pouch until ready to use.
  • Keep out of reach of children and pets.
  • Dispose of used test components as clinical waste or in accordance with local authority guidance — do not place used swabs or cassettes in general recycling.
  • Check the expiry date before each use.

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 a rapid covid test online in the UK?

You can buy the FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test directly from Cured Pharmacy online for just £2.99 per kit. No prescription is needed, and it can be ordered quickly and discreetly. It is dispatched from a UK GPhC-registered pharmacy, so you can be confident in the product's authenticity and quality.

How does the FlowFlex antigen lateral flow test work?

The FlowFlex test uses lateral flow immunoassay technology to detect SARS-CoV-2 antigens — proteins found on the surface of the virus — from a nasal swab sample. If antigens are present in sufficient quantity, they bind to labelled antibodies on the test strip and produce a visible coloured line at the T position. A control line at C must also appear to confirm the test has functioned correctly.

How do I use the FlowFlex covid test step by step?

Wash your hands, then open the kit and pour the buffer solution into the extraction tube. Swab each nostril by rotating the swab 5 times, then stir the swab in the buffer and squeeze out the liquid. Add 3 drops to the sample well on the cassette and read the result at exactly 15 minutes — one line means negative, two lines means positive, and no lines means the test is invalid.

How accurate is the FlowFlex rapid covid test?

The FlowFlex test has a reported clinical sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 99.6% based on published validation studies. This means it correctly identifies most positive cases and very rarely produces a false positive. However, no lateral flow test is 100% accurate — a negative result does not completely rule out infection, particularly in the very early stages of illness.

When is the best time to use a rapid covid test?

The NHS advises that lateral flow tests are most accurate when used by people who have symptoms of COVID-19, as antigen levels are typically highest during the symptomatic phase. Testing in the morning before eating, drinking, or using nasal sprays tends to give the most reliable sample. If you have been exposed to a confirmed case, testing 2–3 days after exposure may give a more meaningful result than testing immediately.

Can children use the FlowFlex antigen test?

Yes, the FlowFlex test is suitable for use in both adults and children. Children under 12 should always be assisted by a responsible adult when performing the nasal swab, as the technique requires care and precision. The swab should be inserted gently — never forced — to avoid discomfort or minor nasal irritation.

What does a positive FlowFlex test result mean?

A positive result — two visible lines at both C and T — indicates that SARS-CoV-2 antigens were detected in your nasal sample, suggesting you are likely currently infected and potentially infectious. You should follow current UK government and NHS guidance, which may include informing close contacts and avoiding contact with vulnerable individuals. If you feel very unwell, contact NHS 111 or your GP for further advice.

What should I do if I get a negative result but still feel unwell?

A negative result reduces the likelihood of COVID-19 but does not rule it out entirely, especially if you tested very early in your illness. The NHS recommends repeating the test after 24–48 hours if symptoms persist and the first result was negative. If you remain unwell, contact NHS 111 or your GP — and consider browsing our cold and flu range for symptom relief in the meantime.

What are the alternatives to a lateral flow antigen test for COVID-19?

The main alternative is a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test, which detects viral RNA rather than antigens and is generally considered more sensitive, particularly early in infection. PCR tests are typically processed in a laboratory and take longer to return a result — usually 24–48 hours. Lateral flow tests like the FlowFlex offer the advantage of a rapid result at home without the need to send a sample away.

Who is eligible to use the FlowFlex rapid covid test?

The FlowFlex test is available to anyone who wishes to check for a current SARS-CoV-2 infection — no prescription or referral is needed. It is suitable for symptomatic adults and children, people who have been in close contact with a confirmed case, and those who want to test before visiting vulnerable relatives. It is not intended for use as a screening tool in clinical settings without appropriate professional oversight.

What happens if the FlowFlex test result is invalid?

An invalid result occurs when no control line appears at C, meaning the test has not functioned correctly — this can happen if insufficient sample was added, the test was not stored correctly, or the kit was past its expiry date. You should discard the test and repeat with a new kit, following the instructions carefully. If you continue to get invalid results, contact Cured Pharmacy or a healthcare professional for advice.

How long does a rapid covid test result take?

The FlowFlex test produces a result in exactly 15 minutes from the point of adding the sample to the cassette. You should not read the result before 15 minutes, as lines may still be developing. Equally, do not read the result after 20 minutes, as evaporation lines can sometimes appear and be mistaken for a positive result.

Can I use the FlowFlex test if I have a nasal condition or nosebleeds?

If you have a history of frequent nosebleeds, nasal polyps, or have recently had nasal surgery, take extra care when inserting the swab and do not force it. Insert the swab gently and only to the recommended depth of approximately 2.5 cm. If you are concerned, speak to your pharmacist or GP before using the test. You can also explore our ear, nose and throat range for products that may help manage nasal conditions.

How should I dispose of the FlowFlex test after use?

Used test components — including the swab, cassette, and extraction tube — should be treated as potentially infectious clinical waste. Place them in a sealed plastic bag before disposing of them in your general household waste bin. Do not place used test components in recycling bins. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling used test materials.

Are there any latest studies on the accuracy of FlowFlex lateral flow tests?

Published validation data for the FlowFlex test reports a clinical sensitivity of 93.3% and specificity of 99.6% when used in symptomatic individuals. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has evaluated multiple lateral flow devices and published comparative performance data. Ongoing real-world studies continue to assess performance against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, and results may vary depending on the variant circulating at the time of testing.

How Should You Use the FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test?

Using the FlowFlex test correctly is essential for getting a reliable result. Always read the full instruction leaflet included in the kit before you begin, and make sure you work in a clean, well-lit area with freshly washed hands.

What Is the Correct Dose of the FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test?

This is a single-use diagnostic device, so each kit provides one test. If your first result is negative but symptoms persist, the NHS advises repeating the test after 24 to 48 hours to improve confidence in the result.

When Is the Best Time to Use the FlowFlex Rapid Covid Test?

For the most reliable result, test in the morning before eating, drinking, smoking, or using any nasal sprays — ideally at least 30 minutes before any of these activities. If you have been exposed to a confirmed COVID-19 case, testing 2 to 3 days after exposure is generally more informative than testing immediately, as antigen levels need time to build to a detectable level.

Avoid blowing your nose immediately before testing, as this may reduce the amount of viral material available in the sample. Room temperature conditions (between 15°C and 30°C) are ideal for performing the test — very cold environments can slow the lateral flow reaction and affect result accuracy.

How Long Can You Use the FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test For?

Each FlowFlex kit is a single-use device and cannot be reused. There is no ongoing treatment course — you simply use one test per testing episode. The kit has a shelf life indicated by the expiry date printed on the outer packaging and the foil pouch; always check this before use and never use an expired kit.

If you need to test repeatedly over a period of time — for example, during a period of ongoing symptoms or regular household monitoring — you will need a separate kit for each test. There is no maximum number of times you can test, provided each test is performed with a new, in-date kit.

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

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What Are the Most Common Effects of Using the FlowFlex Antigen Rapid Covid Test?

Because the FlowFlex test is a diagnostic device rather than a medicine, it does not cause systemic side effects in the way that a drug would. The most commonly reported physical effects relate to the nasal swabbing process itself, which can be mildly uncomfortable for some people — particularly those with sensitive nasal passages.

  • Mild nasal discomfort or tickling sensation during swab insertion
  • Sneezing triggered by contact with the nasal mucosa
  • Watery eyes as a reflex response to nasal stimulation
  • Temporary mild soreness in the nostril after swabbing

What Are the Less Common Effects Associated With This Test?

Less commonly, some people may experience minor nasal bleeding, particularly if the swab is inserted too forcefully or if they have naturally fragile nasal blood vessels. This is usually self-limiting and stops quickly with gentle pressure. Result-related issues are also worth being aware of, as they can cause unnecessary anxiety or a false sense of reassurance.

  • Minor nasal bleeding (epistaxis) if the swab is inserted too deeply or forcefully
  • False negative result — the test shows negative despite active infection, most likely early in illness
  • False positive result — the test shows positive despite no active infection (uncommon, reported specificity 99.6%)
  • Invalid result — no control line appears, requiring the test to be repeated with a new kit

What Are the Serious Risks Associated With the FlowFlex Covid Test?

Serious physical harm from a nasal lateral flow test is extremely rare when the device is used as directed. The most clinically significant risk is acting on an incorrect result — either failing to isolate following a false negative, or unnecessarily isolating following a false positive. If you receive a positive result and have no symptoms, or if your result does not match your clinical picture, speak to your GP or NHS 111 for further assessment. Do not rely solely on a lateral flow result for major clinical decisions.

What Should You Do If You Experience Any Discomfort After Testing?

If you experience nasal bleeding after swabbing, sit upright, pinch the soft part of your nose, and apply gentle pressure for 10 to 15 minutes. Do not tilt your head back. If bleeding is heavy or does not stop within 20 minutes, seek medical attention. For general nasal soreness, this should resolve within a few hours without treatment. If you are concerned about any physical reaction following the test, contact your pharmacist or GP for advice.

Can the FlowFlex Test Interact With Other Medicines or Products?

As a diagnostic device, the FlowFlex test does not interact with medicines in the pharmacological sense. However, certain nasal products used immediately before testing may affect the quality of the nasal sample. Avoid using nasal decongestant sprays, corticosteroid nasal sprays, or saline nasal rinses for at least 30 minutes before performing the test. These products can dilute or alter the nasal secretions and potentially affect the concentration of antigens in the sample, which could influence the result.

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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