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Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief -full pack capsules

Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief -full pack capsules

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  • ✔️ Relieves cold and flu headache, fever, and nasal congestion
  • ✔️ Day capsules keep you alert and functional during waking hours
  • ✔️ Night capsules help you sleep through disruptive cold symptoms
  • ✔️ Dual-formulation pack covers 24-hour cold and flu symptom relief
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over

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What Are Lemsip Max Day Night Cold Flu Capsules?

 

Feeling rough with a cold or flu is never fun — blocked nose, pounding head, sore throat, and the kind of fatigue that makes even getting off the sofa feel like an achievement. Lemsip Max Day Night cold flu capsules are designed to tackle exactly that, offering targeted relief around the clock. The pack contains two types of capsule: day capsules to keep you functioning during waking hours, and night capsules to help you rest when symptoms are at their most disruptive. If you're looking for more options to manage cold and flu symptoms, browse our cold and flu collection for a wider range of remedies.

Each capsule is taken orally and works through a combination of active ingredients chosen specifically for daytime or night-time use. The product is available over the counter (OTC) in the UK, meaning you don't need a prescription to purchase it. It is suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over.

 

How Do Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules Work?

 

The day and night capsules each contain paracetamol 500 mg as the core analgesic and antipyretic — that's the ingredient that lowers your temperature and eases headache and body aches. Beyond that, the two capsule types diverge:

  • Day capsules also contain phenylephrine hydrochloride 6.1 mg, a sympathomimetic decongestant that narrows blood vessels in the nasal lining, reducing swelling and congestion so you can breathe more easily.
  • Night capsules replace phenylephrine with diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25 mg, a first-generation antihistamine. Diphenhydramine crosses the blood-brain barrier and causes sedation, helping you drift off despite uncomfortable symptoms.
  • Paracetamol acts centrally to raise the pain threshold and peripherally to reduce prostaglandin synthesis, which drives fever and inflammation.

This dual-formulation approach means you get decongestant support when you need to stay alert, and sedative support when you need to sleep — without taking a drowsy ingredient during the day.

 

Who Should Use Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules?

 

These capsules are intended for adults and young people aged 16 and over who are experiencing the typical cluster of cold or flu symptoms. They're particularly useful if your symptoms are disrupting both your daytime productivity and your night-time sleep. That said, they're not right for everyone.

This product may suit you if you:

  • Are aged 16 or over and experiencing cold or flu symptoms
  • Have a blocked or runny nose alongside headache, fever, or sore throat
  • Are struggling to sleep due to cold symptoms at night
  • Want a convenient all-in-one pack rather than buying separate day and night remedies

It is not suitable for children under 16, people with certain heart conditions, those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or anyone with a known hypersensitivity to any of the active ingredients. Always read the label carefully before use.

 

How Do Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules Compare to Alternatives?

 

Feature Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules Night Nurse Liquid
Formulation Capsules (day + night) Liquid (night only)
Daytime use Yes — separate day capsules No — causes drowsiness
Active decongestant Phenylephrine HCl 6.1 mg (day) Pseudoephedrine HCl 20 mg
Suitable age 16 and over 16 and over

 

How Should You Store Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules?

 

Store the capsules 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 capsules after the expiry date printed on the pack — if in doubt, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal. If you're also managing other health concerns alongside a cold, our pain relief collection includes a range of analgesics that may 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.

Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief Capsules specifications
Treatment category Cold and flu relief
Mechanism of action Analgesic/antipyretic (paracetamol); sympathomimetic decongestant (phenylephrine); sedating antihistamine (diphenhydramine)
Effective for Headache, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, body aches, disturbed sleep due to cold/flu
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 16 and over
Active ingredients Paracetamol 500 mg; Phenylephrine HCl 6.1 mg (day); Diphenhydramine HCl 25 mg (night)
UK classification General Sale List (GSL) / Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Analgesic, decongestant, antihistamine combination
Preparation Hard capsules
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief Capsules

 

What Is Lemsip Max Day & Night and What Is It Used For?

 

Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief capsules are an OTC combination medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and influenza in adults and young people aged 16 and over. The pack contains two distinct capsule types — day capsules and night capsules — each formulated to address symptoms at different points in the day. Symptoms the product targets include headache, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, and general aches and pains. The night capsules additionally help you sleep through discomfort, which is often one of the most frustrating aspects of being unwell.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Lemsip Max Day & Night?

 

Before taking these capsules, it's important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not take this product if any of the following apply:

  • You are under 16 years of age
  • You are allergic to paracetamol, phenylephrine, diphenhydramine, or any other ingredient in the capsules
  • You are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
  • You have severe high blood pressure (hypertension) or severe coronary artery disease
  • You have closed-angle glaucoma
  • You have difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding without first consulting a doctor
  • You have severe liver or kidney disease

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you have thyroid disease, diabetes, an enlarged prostate, or a history of epilepsy. The following medicines may interact with this product:

  • Other paracetamol-containing medicines — risk of accidental overdose
  • Tricyclic antidepressants and other sedatives — increased drowsiness with night capsules
  • Beta-blockers and other antihypertensives — phenylephrine may reduce their effect
  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants — regular paracetamol use may affect INR
  • Other sympathomimetics (e.g. some nasal decongestant sprays) — additive cardiovascular effects

 

How Should You Use Lemsip Max Day & Night?

 

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack before taking these capsules. Follow these steps carefully:

  1. Check the pack to confirm you are taking the correct capsule type — day or night.
  2. Swallow 2 capsules whole with a full glass of water.
  3. Do not chew or open the capsules.
  4. For day capsules, take every 4 to 6 hours as needed during waking hours.
  5. Take the night capsules only at bedtime — do not drive or operate machinery after taking them.
  6. Do not take more than 8 day capsules and 2 night capsules in any 24-hour period.
Capsule type Age group Dose Frequency
Day capsules Adults & young people 16+ 2 capsules Every 4–6 hours (max 4 times daily)
Night capsules Adults & young people 16+ 2 capsules Once at bedtime only
Day or night capsules Under 16 Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Lemsip Max Day & Night?

 

Like all medicines, these capsules can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. If you're also managing sleep difficulties beyond cold symptoms, our sleep aid collection may offer additional support once you've recovered.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Dry mouth (particularly with night capsules)
  • Drowsiness or next-day grogginess (night capsules)
  • Difficulty sleeping or restlessness (day capsules)
  • Increased heart rate (palpitations)

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Headache (paradoxically, with overuse)
  • Blurred vision
  • Urinary retention — difficulty passing urine
  • Skin rash or allergic reaction
  • Raised blood pressure

Stop taking the capsules 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. Paracetamol overdose is a medical emergency — if you suspect you or someone else has taken too much, go to A&E immediately even if you feel well, as liver damage may not be apparent for several days.

 

How Should You Store Lemsip Max Day & Night?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Keep the pack out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink — moisture can degrade the capsules
  • Return unused or expired medicines to your pharmacy for safe disposal — do not flush or bin them

If you're supporting your immune system during and after illness, you might also find our vitamins and supplements collection useful for products such as vitamin C and zinc.

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 Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu capsules online in the UK?

You can buy Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief capsules directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy in the UK. Simply add the pack to your basket and select your preferred delivery option at checkout. We dispatch orders quickly so you can start feeling better sooner.

How do Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules work in the body?

The day capsules combine paracetamol — which reduces fever and relieves pain — with phenylephrine, a decongestant that narrows blood vessels in the nasal passages to ease congestion. The night capsules replace phenylephrine with diphenhydramine, a sedating antihistamine that helps you sleep through your symptoms. Together, they provide round-the-clock symptom management tailored to your body's needs at different times of day.

How do I use Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules step by step?

Take 2 day capsules with a full glass of water every 4 to 6 hours during the day, and 2 night capsules at bedtime only. Swallow the capsules whole — do not chew or open them. Never take both capsule types at the same time, and always check the pack to confirm which type you're taking.

What is the correct dose of Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules?

The recommended dose for adults and young people aged 16 and over is 2 day capsules every 4 to 6 hours, up to a maximum of 4 times in 24 hours. The night capsules should be taken as 2 capsules once at bedtime only — do not take more than this. Never exceed 8 day capsules and 2 night capsules in any single 24-hour period.

When is the best time to take Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules?

Take the day capsules as soon as symptoms appear during waking hours, spacing doses at least 4 hours apart. Take the night capsules only at bedtime, as diphenhydramine causes drowsiness and you should not drive or operate machinery after taking them. Planning your doses around your daily routine helps maintain consistent symptom relief throughout the day and night.

Who is eligible to take Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules?

These capsules are suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms such as headache, fever, nasal congestion, or sore throat. They are not suitable for children under 16, pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice, or people taking MAOIs. If you have a heart condition, liver disease, kidney disease, or glaucoma, speak to your pharmacist or GP before use.

Can I take Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules if I am pregnant?

These capsules are not recommended during pregnancy without first consulting your GP or midwife, as phenylephrine and diphenhydramine have not been established as safe for use in pregnancy. Paracetamol alone is generally considered the analgesic of choice during pregnancy when used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, but the combination ingredients in this product require medical guidance. Always seek professional advice before taking any medicine during pregnancy.

What are the side effects of Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules and how do I manage them?

Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, palpitations, and — with the night capsules — drowsiness that may persist into the following morning. To manage nausea, try taking the capsules with food or a full glass of water. If you experience persistent or severe side effects such as difficulty breathing, skin rash, or urinary retention, stop taking the capsules and contact your pharmacist or GP promptly.

Can I take Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules with other medicines?

Do not take these capsules alongside any other product containing paracetamol, as this significantly increases the risk of accidental overdose. They should also not be taken with MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressants, other sedatives, or additional decongestants. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking — including herbal remedies — before starting this product. You can also browse our ear, nose and throat collection for complementary remedies.

What happens if I miss a dose of Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules?

If you miss a dose of the day capsules, simply take the next dose when needed, ensuring at least 4 hours have passed since your last dose. Do not double up to compensate for a missed dose. For the night capsules, if you forget to take them at bedtime and it is already late in the night, skip that dose and continue as normal the following evening.

How long can I take Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules for?

Do not use these capsules for more than 5 consecutive days without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. Cold and flu symptoms typically improve within 7 to 10 days, but if your symptoms worsen, persist beyond 5 days, or you develop a high fever that doesn't respond to treatment, seek medical advice. Prolonged use of decongestants can sometimes cause rebound congestion.

Are Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules suitable for people with high blood pressure?

The day capsules contain phenylephrine, a decongestant that can raise blood pressure and is generally not recommended for people with uncontrolled hypertension or severe cardiovascular disease. If you have high blood pressure, speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking this product. They may recommend a decongestant-free alternative or advise on safe use.

What are the alternatives to Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules?

Alternatives include other combination cold and flu products such as Night Nurse, Beechams All-in-One, or Sudafed Day & Night. You could also use plain paracetamol for pain and fever alongside a separate nasal decongestant spray. Browse our cold and flu collection to compare available options and find the most suitable product for your symptoms.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules?

You should avoid alcohol while taking these capsules, particularly the night capsules containing diphenhydramine, as alcohol significantly increases sedation and impairs your ability to function safely. Alcohol can also increase the risk of liver damage when combined with paracetamol, especially if you drink regularly or in large amounts. It is safest to abstain from alcohol for the duration of your course.

What is the latest guidance on treating cold and flu symptoms in the UK?

The NHS advises that most colds and flu episodes resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days and that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections. Current guidance recommends rest, adequate hydration, and OTC symptom relief such as paracetamol-based combination products where appropriate. Lemsip Max Day Night cold flu capsules align with this approach by targeting the most disruptive symptoms — fever, congestion, and disturbed sleep — without requiring a prescription.

How Should You Use Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief Capsules?

Always read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before taking these capsules. It's important to distinguish between the day and night capsules — they look different and serve different purposes, so check the labelling carefully each time.

Follow these steps for correct use:

What Is the Correct Dose of Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules?

Getting the dose right is essential, particularly because these capsules contain paracetamol. Taking more than the recommended amount — even accidentally, by combining with other paracetamol products — can cause serious liver damage. Always check the labels of any other medicines you are taking before using this product.

When Is the Best Time to Use Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules?

Take the day capsules at the first sign of symptoms during waking hours, spacing each dose by at least 4 hours to maintain consistent relief. The night capsules should be taken immediately before you go to bed — not earlier in the evening — to ensure the sedative effect of diphenhydramine coincides with your intended sleep time.

Taking the night capsules too early in the evening may leave you feeling groggy and impair your ability to carry out normal activities safely. Plan your doses around your schedule and avoid taking the night capsules if you need to drive or be alert within the next 8 hours.

How Long Can You Use Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules For?

These capsules are intended for short-term use only. Do not take them for more than 5 consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. Cold and flu symptoms typically begin to improve within a few days, but if you are not feeling better after 5 days, or if your symptoms worsen at any point, seek medical advice promptly.

Prolonged use of phenylephrine-containing decongestants can occasionally lead to rebound nasal congestion, and extended use of diphenhydramine may cause tolerance to its sedative effects. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to control your symptoms.

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 Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules?

Most people tolerate these capsules well when taken as directed, but some side effects can occur. Common side effects are generally mild and tend to resolve on their own as your body adjusts or once you stop taking the medicine.

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Dry mouth, particularly with the night capsules
  • Drowsiness or next-day grogginess (night capsules only)
  • Difficulty sleeping or restlessness (day capsules)
  • Increased heart rate (palpitations)
  • Headache

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules?

Less common side effects affect fewer people but are still worth being aware of. If you notice any of the following, stop taking the capsules and speak to your pharmacist or GP:

  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Confusion, particularly in older adults

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop taking the capsules straight away and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E if you experience any of the following:

  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; sudden drop in blood pressure
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering, peeling, or widespread rash
  • Signs of liver damage: yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, severe upper abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or severe palpitations

Paracetamol overdose is a medical emergency. If you suspect you or someone else has taken too much paracetamol — even if they feel well — go to A&E immediately. Liver damage from paracetamol overdose may not become apparent for several days, by which point it can be life-threatening.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules?

For mild side effects such as nausea, try taking the capsules with food or a full glass of water. Dry mouth can be eased by sipping water regularly or chewing sugar-free gum. If drowsiness from the night capsules persists well into the following day, avoid driving or operating machinery and consider whether the dose is appropriate for you.

You can report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps regulators monitor the safety of medicines in real-world use.

Can Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — interactions are possible and some can be serious. The most important interaction to be aware of is with other paracetamol-containing products, as combining them can lead to accidental overdose. The day capsules' phenylephrine content can reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive medicines and interact with other sympathomimetics. The night capsules' diphenhydramine can enhance the sedative effects of alcohol, sleeping tablets, anxiolytics, and tricyclic antidepressants. Always inform your pharmacist of 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

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