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Hedex Extra - 16 Tablets

Hedex Extra - 16 Tablets

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  • ✔️ Relieves headaches and migraines with paracetamol and caffeine
  • ✔️ Caffeine enhances paracetamol's pain-relieving effect clinically
  • ✔️ Suitable for tension headaches, cold aches, and period pain
  • ✔️ Each pack contains 16 convenient film-coated tablets
  • ✔️ No prescription needed — available over the counter in the UK

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What Are Hedex Extra Tablets and How Do They Help?

 

Hedex Extra tablets are a well-known over-the-counter pain reliever that combines two active ingredients — paracetamol 500 mg and caffeine 65 mg — to tackle headaches and mild-to-moderate pain more effectively than paracetamol alone. Each pack contains 16 tablets, making it a practical option to keep at home or in your bag for when pain strikes unexpectedly. If you regularly deal with tension headaches, migraines, or the aches that come with a cold or flu, this is a product worth knowing about. You can find it alongside other options in our pain relief collection.

Paracetamol is one of the most widely used analgesics in the UK, recommended by the NHS for a broad range of pain types. The addition of caffeine in Hedex Extra is not just a gimmick — clinical evidence supports caffeine as an adjuvant analgesic that can meaningfully improve the efficacy of paracetamol-based medicines. At just £2.99 for 16 tablets, it offers accessible relief without the need for a prescription.

 

How Does Hedex Extra Work to Relieve Pain?

 

Understanding how a medicine works helps you use it with confidence. Hedex Extra works through a two-pronged mechanism:

  • Paracetamol inhibits the production of prostaglandins in the brain and spinal cord — chemicals that sensitise nerve endings and amplify pain signals. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis centrally, it raises your pain threshold.
  • Caffeine acts as an adjuvant analgesic. It constricts dilated blood vessels (which contribute to headache pain), enhances the absorption of paracetamol, and increases alertness — helping you feel better faster.
  • Together, the combination has been shown to produce greater pain relief than paracetamol alone at equivalent doses, particularly for headache and migraine.

It is worth noting that caffeine is a stimulant. If you are sensitive to caffeine or already consume a lot of coffee or energy drinks, factor that in before taking Hedex Extra — especially later in the day.

 

Who Is Hedex Extra Suitable For?

 

Hedex Extra is suitable for most adults and young people aged 16 and over who need short-term relief from mild-to-moderate pain. It is particularly useful for:

  • Tension headaches and migraines
  • Cold and flu symptoms including body aches and fever
  • Toothache and dental pain
  • Period pain and muscular aches

It is not suitable for children under 16, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding (due to the caffeine content), or those with severe liver or kidney impairment. Always read the label carefully before use.

 

How Does Hedex Extra Compare to Plain Paracetamol?

 

Feature Hedex Extra Tablets Plain Paracetamol 500 mg
Active ingredients Paracetamol 500 mg + Caffeine 65 mg Paracetamol 500 mg
Best for Headaches, migraines, cold symptoms General mild-to-moderate pain
Caffeine content Yes — 65 mg per tablet No
Suitable in pregnancy No (caffeine) Generally yes (seek advice)

 

How Should You Store Hedex Extra Tablets?

 

Store your Hedex Extra 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 — even if they look fine, their efficacy and safety cannot be guaranteed beyond that date.

If you are managing multiple health conditions and need a range of OTC products, our cold and flu collection includes complementary products that may help alongside your pain relief.

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.

Hedex Extra 16 Tablets specifications
Treatment category Pain relief / Analgesic
Mechanism of action Prostaglandin synthesis inhibition (paracetamol) + adjuvant analgesia (caffeine)
Effective for Headache, migraine, cold symptoms, toothache, period pain, muscular aches
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 16 and over
Active ingredient Paracetamol 500 mg, Caffeine 65 mg per tablet
Pack size 16 tablets
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Analgesic / Antipyretic with adjuvant stimulant
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Hedex Extra 16 Tablets

 

What Is Hedex Extra and What Is It Used For?

 

Hedex Extra is an over-the-counter analgesic tablet used to relieve mild-to-moderate pain. Each tablet contains paracetamol 500 mg and caffeine 65 mg. It is indicated for the short-term treatment of headaches (including tension headaches and migraines), cold and flu symptoms, toothache, period pain, and general muscular aches. The NHS recognises paracetamol as a first-line treatment for many types of pain, and the caffeine component is included to enhance its analgesic effect.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Hedex Extra?

 

Before taking Hedex Extra, it is important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not take this medicine if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to paracetamol, caffeine, or any other ingredient in the tablet
  • You have severe liver disease or severe kidney impairment
  • You are under 16 years of age
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (caffeine passes into breast milk)
  • You already take other medicines containing paracetamol — this risks a dangerous overdose

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking Hedex Extra if you have liver or kidney problems, are a regular heavy drinker of alcohol, or are underweight or malnourished, as these factors affect how your body processes paracetamol.

Drug interactions to be aware of:

  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants — regular use of paracetamol may enhance the anticoagulant effect
  • Other paracetamol-containing products — never take alongside cold remedies, flu sachets, or other painkillers that also contain paracetamol
  • Metoclopramide or domperidone — may increase the rate of paracetamol absorption
  • Cholestyramine — may reduce paracetamol absorption if taken within one hour

 

How Should You Use Hedex Extra?

 

Always take Hedex Extra exactly as directed on the label. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew them.

  1. Check you are not already taking any other paracetamol-containing product.
  2. Take 2 tablets with a full glass of water.
  3. Wait at least 4 hours before taking your next dose.
  4. Do not take more than 4 doses (8 tablets) in any 24-hour period.
  5. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking medical advice.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum daily dose
Adults and young people aged 16+ 2 tablets Every 4–6 hours as needed 8 tablets (4,000 mg paracetamol)
Children under 16 Not suitable — do not use

If you are looking for pain relief options for younger children, our baby and toddler collection includes age-appropriate products.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Hedex Extra?

 

Like all medicines, Hedex Extra can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Side effects are uncommon when the medicine is taken at the recommended dose.

Common side effects:

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Difficulty sleeping (due to caffeine content)
  • Restlessness or mild anxiety

Less common side effects:

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Flushing
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension) — rare
  • Blood disorders — very rare

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are very rare but require immediate medical attention. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. Stop taking the tablets and call 999 if this occurs. Paracetamol overdose — even accidental — can cause serious liver damage. If you think you or someone else has taken too much, go to A&E immediately, even if you feel well.

 

How Should You Store Hedex Extra?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Keep in the original packaging to protect from moisture
  • Keep out of the sight and reach 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

For other everyday health essentials, browse our first aid collection for products to keep alongside your pain relief at home.

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 Hedex Extra tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Hedex Extra 16 Tablets online from Cured Pharmacy for just £2.99, with no prescription required. It is a General Sale List (GSL) medicine, meaning it is legally available without a prescription from registered UK online pharmacies. Browse our full pain relief collection for more options.

How do Hedex Extra tablets work in the body?

Hedex Extra contains paracetamol, which reduces pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, raising your pain threshold. The caffeine component acts as an adjuvant analgesic — it enhances paracetamol's effectiveness, constricts dilated blood vessels that contribute to headache pain, and may speed up absorption. Together, the two ingredients provide more effective headache relief than paracetamol alone.

How do I take Hedex Extra step by step?

Take 2 tablets with a full glass of water, and make sure you have not already taken any other paracetamol-containing product that day. Wait at least 4 hours before taking your next dose, and never exceed 8 tablets (4 doses) in any 24-hour period. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without speaking to a pharmacist or GP.

What is the correct dose of Hedex Extra for adults?

The recommended dose for adults and young people aged 16 and over is 2 tablets, taken up to 4 times daily with at least 4 hours between each dose. This equates to a maximum of 8 tablets or 4,000 mg of paracetamol in 24 hours — the same as the standard adult paracetamol limit. Never exceed this amount, as doing so risks serious liver damage.

What is the best time to take Hedex Extra?

Take Hedex Extra as soon as your headache or pain begins — early intervention tends to produce better results than waiting until pain is severe. Because it contains caffeine (65 mg per tablet, equivalent to roughly two-thirds of a cup of coffee), avoid taking it late in the evening if you are sensitive to caffeine, as it may affect your sleep. If sleep disruption is a concern, plain paracetamol may be a better evening option.

What are the side effects of Hedex Extra and how do I manage them?

Side effects at recommended doses are uncommon but can include nausea, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or mild skin reactions. If you experience nausea, try taking the tablets with a small amount of food. If you notice a skin rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, stop taking the tablets immediately and seek urgent medical attention, as these may indicate a rare allergic reaction.

Who is eligible to take Hedex Extra tablets?

Hedex Extra is suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over who need short-term relief from mild-to-moderate pain. It is not suitable for children under 16, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or those with severe liver or kidney disease. If you have any underlying health conditions or take regular medication, speak to your pharmacist before use.

What happens if I miss a dose of Hedex Extra?

Hedex Extra is taken as needed for pain rather than on a fixed schedule, so there is no "missed dose" in the traditional sense. Simply take your next dose when pain returns, ensuring at least 4 hours have passed since your last dose. Never double up to compensate — this risks exceeding the safe daily paracetamol limit.

Can I take Hedex Extra with other medicines?

You must not take Hedex Extra alongside any other product containing paracetamol — this includes many cold and flu remedies, flu sachets, and combination painkillers — as this can lead to accidental overdose. If you take warfarin, speak to your GP or pharmacist before using Hedex Extra regularly, as paracetamol can enhance its anticoagulant effect. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure about interactions.

Is Hedex Extra safe to take during pregnancy?

Hedex Extra is not recommended during pregnancy because it contains caffeine, which should be limited during pregnancy according to NHS guidance. If you need pain relief while pregnant, plain paracetamol (without caffeine) is generally considered the safer option, but you should always consult your GP or midwife before taking any medicine during pregnancy. Do not self-medicate without professional advice.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Hedex Extra?

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Hedex Extra. Alcohol combined with paracetamol increases the risk of liver damage, particularly if you drink regularly or in large amounts. The NHS advises that people who drink heavily should seek medical advice before taking paracetamol-based products.

How long can I take Hedex Extra for?

Hedex Extra is intended for short-term use only — no more than 3 consecutive days without medical advice. Using painkillers too frequently can actually cause medication-overuse headache (sometimes called rebound headache), where the headaches become more frequent the more you take. If your pain persists beyond 3 days, speak to your GP.

What are the alternatives to Hedex Extra tablets?

Alternatives for mild-to-moderate pain include plain paracetamol 500 mg, ibuprofen 200–400 mg, or aspirin 300–600 mg (not suitable for under-16s or those with certain conditions). For headaches specifically, some people find combination products containing ibuprofen and codeine helpful, though these require a pharmacist consultation. Explore our pain relief range to compare available options.

Can Hedex Extra cause medication-overuse headache?

Yes — taking any painkiller, including Hedex Extra, on more than 10–15 days per month can lead to medication-overuse headache (MOH), also known as rebound headache. This is a recognised condition where frequent painkiller use paradoxically makes headaches worse over time. If you find yourself reaching for pain relief most days, speak to your GP about longer-term headache management strategies.

What does the latest research say about paracetamol and caffeine combinations?

Research published in clinical literature consistently supports caffeine as an effective adjuvant analgesic when combined with paracetamol, particularly for headache and migraine. Studies suggest that adding caffeine to paracetamol can improve pain relief by around 40% compared to paracetamol alone in some headache patients. The combination is well-established in UK clinical practice and is reflected in several licensed OTC products including Hedex Extra. For broader wellbeing support, our vitamins and supplements collection may also be of interest.

How Should You Use Hedex Extra?

Hedex Extra tablets are taken orally with a full glass of water. Always read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before use, and check that you are not already taking any other product containing paracetamol before you begin.

What Is the Correct Dose of Hedex Extra?

The dose varies by age. Hedex Extra is not suitable for children under 16 years of age under any circumstances. For adults and young people aged 16 and over, the dose is consistent regardless of the type of pain being treated.

When Is the Best Time to Use Hedex Extra?

Take Hedex Extra as soon as pain or a headache begins — acting early generally produces better results than waiting until symptoms are severe. Because each tablet contains 65 mg of caffeine, try to avoid taking your last dose of the day too close to bedtime, particularly if you are sensitive to caffeine or prone to sleep difficulties.

If you are taking Hedex Extra for cold or flu symptoms, spacing your doses evenly throughout the day will help maintain a more consistent level of pain relief. Taking it with or after a light meal may also help reduce any stomach discomfort.

How Long Can You Use Hedex Extra For?

Hedex Extra is intended for short-term use only. Do not use it for more than 3 consecutive days without seeking advice from your pharmacist or GP. Prolonged or frequent use of any painkiller — including paracetamol-based products — can lead to medication-overuse headache, where headaches become more frequent rather than less.

If your symptoms have not improved after 3 days, or if they worsen at any point, stop taking the tablets and consult a healthcare professional. This is especially important if you develop a high fever, a stiff neck, or a headache that feels different from your usual pattern.

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 Hedex Extra?

Most people who take Hedex Extra at the recommended dose do not experience side effects. However, because it contains caffeine as well as paracetamol, some people may notice stimulant-related effects, particularly if they are already consuming caffeine from other sources such as coffee, tea, or energy drinks.

  • Nausea or mild stomach discomfort
  • Difficulty sleeping or restlessness
  • Mild anxiety or jitteriness
  • Increased heart rate (palpitations) — particularly in caffeine-sensitive individuals

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Hedex Extra?

Less common side effects are rare at therapeutic doses but have been reported. If you notice any of the following, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Skin rash, itching, or hives (urticaria)
  • Flushing or redness of the skin
  • Headache worsening with regular use (medication-overuse headache)
  • Blood disorders — very rare, including thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Hedex Extra?

Serious side effects from Hedex Extra are very rare when the medicine is used correctly. The most significant risk is paracetamol overdose, which can cause severe and potentially fatal liver damage — even if you feel well initially. This can happen accidentally if you take Hedex Extra alongside other paracetamol-containing products without realising.

Signs of a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, or a severe widespread skin reaction. This is a medical emergency — call 999 immediately and stop taking the tablets.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as nausea or restlessness, try taking the tablets with a small amount of food and reducing your caffeine intake from other sources. If side effects are troublesome or persistent, stop taking Hedex Extra and speak to your pharmacist — they may suggest an alternative pain reliever without caffeine.

If you suspect you or someone else has taken too much paracetamol — even accidentally — go to your nearest A&E department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as liver damage from overdose may not be obvious for 24–72 hours. Take the packet with you so medical staff can see exactly what was taken.

Can Hedex Extra Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. The most important interaction to be aware of is with other paracetamol-containing products. Many common cold remedies, flu sachets, and combination painkillers contain paracetamol — taking these alongside Hedex Extra can push you over the safe daily limit of 4,000 mg without realising it. Always check the ingredients of any other medicine you are taking.

Warfarin users should be aware that regular paracetamol use can enhance the anticoagulant effect, increasing bleeding risk. Medicines that affect stomach emptying — such as metoclopramide or domperidone — may alter how quickly paracetamol is absorbed. Always tell your pharmacist or GP about all medicines you are taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

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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