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Night Nurse Liquid 160ml

Night Nurse Liquid 160ml

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  • ✔️ Relieves cold and flu symptoms specifically at night
  • ✔️ Contains promethazine to aid restful sleep when unwell
  • ✔️ Suppresses dry cough with dextromethorphan hydrobromide
  • ✔️ Reduces fever and pain with 1000mg paracetamol per dose
  • ✔️ One convenient 20ml bedtime dose covers multiple symptoms

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What Is Night Nurse Liquid and How Does It Help?

 

When a cold or flu hits at night, it can feel relentless. The coughing, the blocked nose, the aching — all of it conspiring to keep you awake when your body needs rest most. Night nurse liquid is a well-established over-the-counter medicine designed specifically to tackle those night-time cold and flu symptoms so you can actually get some sleep. Available from Cured Pharmacy's cold and flu range, this 160ml liquid formulation contains three active ingredients that work together to relieve multiple symptoms at once.

Each 20ml dose contains paracetamol 1000mg, promethazine hydrochloride 20mg, and dextromethorphan hydrobromide 15mg. These are not random additions — each one targets a specific symptom of cold and flu, making this a multi-action remedy rather than a single-symptom fix. It is suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over.

 

How Does Night Nurse Liquid Work in the Body?

 

Understanding how a medicine works helps you use it more confidently. Night Nurse Liquid works through three distinct mechanisms:

  • Paracetamol — reduces fever (pyrexia) and relieves pain such as headaches, sore throat, and body aches associated with cold and flu.
  • Promethazine hydrochloride — a first-generation antihistamine that reduces nasal congestion and has a sedative effect, helping you fall asleep more easily when symptoms would otherwise keep you awake.
  • Dextromethorphan hydrobromide — an antitussive (cough suppressant) that acts on the cough centre in the brain to reduce the urge to cough, particularly the dry, irritating cough common with viral upper respiratory tract infections.

Together, these three ingredients address the most disruptive night-time cold and flu symptoms simultaneously. That is why many people find it more effective at night than single-ingredient remedies.

 

Who Is Night Nurse Liquid Suitable For?

 

This medicine is intended for adults and young people aged 16 years and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms that are disrupting their sleep. It is particularly useful if you have a combination of symptoms rather than just one. That said, it is not appropriate for everyone.

Night Nurse Liquid may be suitable if you:

  • Are aged 16 or over and experiencing cold or flu symptoms at night
  • Have a dry, persistent cough that is keeping you awake
  • Are suffering from a blocked or runny nose alongside other symptoms
  • Have a mild fever, sore throat, or body aches associated with a cold or flu

It is not suitable for children under 16, people with certain liver or kidney conditions, or those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Always read the label carefully before use.

 

How Does Night Nurse Liquid Compare to Day Nurse?

 

Feature Night Nurse Liquid Day Nurse Liquid
Active ingredients Paracetamol, Promethazine, Dextromethorphan Paracetamol, Pholcodine, Pseudoephedrine
Causes drowsiness? Yes — aids sleep No — non-drowsy formula
Best time to take Bedtime only During the day
Suitable for driving? No Generally yes (check label)

 

How Should You Store Night Nurse Liquid?

 

Store night nurse liquid below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the product after the expiry date printed on the label or bottle. If you are unsure whether a medicine is still safe to use, your pharmacist can advise you — and you can also browse our sleep aid collection for related products.

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.

Night Nurse Liquid 160ml specifications
Treatment category Cold and flu relief
Mechanism of action Analgesic, antihistamine, antitussive
Effective for Cough, fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, sleeplessness due to cold/flu
Suitable for Adults and young people aged 16 and over
Active ingredients Paracetamol 1000mg, Promethazine HCl 20mg, Dextromethorphan HBr 15mg per 20ml dose
Pack size 160ml
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class Analgesic / Antihistamine / Antitussive combination
Preparation Oral liquid
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Night Nurse Liquid 160ml

 

What Is Night Nurse Liquid and What Is It Used For?

 

Night Nurse Liquid 160ml is an over-the-counter combination medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu at night. It contains three active ingredients — paracetamol, promethazine hydrochloride, and dextromethorphan hydrobromide — each targeting a different symptom. It is used to relieve fever, pain (such as headache and sore throat), dry cough, and nasal congestion, while also helping you sleep through the discomfort. It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription but should be used under pharmacist guidance.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Night Nurse Liquid?

 

Before taking this medicine, it is important to check whether it is appropriate for you. There are several situations where Night Nurse Liquid should not be used or should only be used with caution.

Do not take Night Nurse Liquid if you:

  • Are under 16 years of age
  • Are allergic to paracetamol, promethazine, dextromethorphan, or any other ingredient in the product
  • Are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
  • Have severe liver or kidney disease
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding without first consulting your GP
  • Have a condition causing excessive mucus production (productive cough) — dextromethorphan is not appropriate for wet coughs

Known drug interactions — take care if you are also taking:

  • Other medicines containing paracetamol (risk of overdose)
  • Sedatives, sleeping tablets, or anxiolytics (increased drowsiness)
  • Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs or MAOIs (risk of serotonin syndrome with dextromethorphan)
  • Anticoagulants such as warfarin (paracetamol may affect INR at higher doses)
  • Anticholinergic medicines (additive effects with promethazine)

If you are unsure about interactions, speak to your pharmacist before purchasing. You can also explore our pain relief collection for paracetamol-only alternatives if a combination product is not suitable for you.

 

How Should You Use Night Nurse Liquid?

 

Always use Night Nurse Liquid exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. This medicine is for night-time use only — do not take it during the day if you need to drive or operate machinery.

  1. Shake the bottle gently before use.
  2. Measure 20ml using the measuring cup provided.
  3. Take the dose at bedtime only.
  4. Do not take more than one dose in any 24-hour period.
  5. Do not take with alcohol or other sedating medicines.
  6. Do not take alongside any other paracetamol-containing product.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum per 24 hours
Adults and young people aged 16+ 20ml Once at bedtime One dose only
Children under 16 Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Night Nurse Liquid?

 

Like all medicines, Night Nurse Liquid can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The promethazine component is responsible for most of the side effects listed below.

Common side effects:

  • Drowsiness or sedation (this is expected and intentional at night)
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty urinating

Less common side effects:

  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Headache (on waking)
  • Skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) — relevant if you take it and are exposed to sunlight the following day
  • Confusion, particularly in older adults
  • Palpitations (rare)

If you experience a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin rash — stop taking the medicine and seek emergency medical attention immediately. You can find further NHS guidance on cold and flu symptoms and when to seek help via the NHS website.

 

How Should You Store Night Nurse Liquid?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the safety and effectiveness of the medicine. Follow these instructions carefully:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Store out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle or carton
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacy

If you are managing multiple health conditions and need to keep track of several medicines, our vitamins and supplements collection may also be of interest for supporting your general wellbeing during recovery.

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 Night Nurse Liquid online in the UK?

You can buy Night Nurse Liquid 160ml online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £8.49. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter Pharmacy (P) medicine. Simply add it to your basket and complete a short health questionnaire to ensure it is suitable for you.

How does Night Nurse Liquid work in the body?

Night Nurse Liquid works through three active ingredients acting simultaneously. Paracetamol reduces fever and relieves pain, dextromethorphan suppresses the cough reflex by acting on the brain's cough centre, and promethazine — an antihistamine — reduces nasal congestion and causes sedation to help you sleep. Together they address the most disruptive night-time cold and flu symptoms in a single dose.

How do I use Night Nurse Liquid step by step?

Shake the bottle, then measure exactly 20ml using the measuring cup provided. Take the dose at bedtime only — never during the day. Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours, and avoid alcohol or other sedating medicines at the same time.

What is the correct dose of Night Nurse Liquid for adults?

The recommended dose for adults and young people aged 16 and over is 20ml taken once at bedtime. This single dose contains paracetamol 1000mg, promethazine hydrochloride 20mg, and dextromethorphan hydrobromide 15mg. Do not take a second dose within 24 hours under any circumstances.

What is the best time to take Night Nurse Liquid?

Night Nurse Liquid should always be taken at bedtime — it is specifically formulated for night-time use. The promethazine it contains causes drowsiness, which is intentional to help you sleep through your symptoms. Taking it at any other time of day is not recommended, as it will impair your ability to drive or carry out tasks requiring concentration.

What are the side effects of Night Nurse Liquid and how do I manage them?

The most common side effects are drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and blurred vision — most of which are caused by the promethazine component. Because drowsiness is expected, you should take the medicine only at bedtime and avoid driving the following morning until you feel fully alert. Staying hydrated can help with dry mouth. If you experience confusion, palpitations, or any allergic reaction, stop taking the medicine and seek medical advice promptly.

Who is eligible to take Night Nurse Liquid?

Night Nurse Liquid is suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms at night. It is not suitable for children under 16, pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice, or people taking MAOIs. Those with liver disease, kidney problems, or certain respiratory conditions should also seek pharmacist advice before use. You can browse our ear, nose and throat collection for alternative products if this one is not appropriate for you.

Can I take Night Nurse Liquid if I am pregnant?

Night Nurse Liquid is not recommended during pregnancy. Promethazine and dextromethorphan both carry cautions in pregnancy, and you should always consult your GP or midwife before taking any over-the-counter medicine when pregnant. Your doctor can advise on safer alternatives for managing cold and flu symptoms during pregnancy.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Night Nurse Liquid?

No — you must not drink alcohol while taking Night Nurse Liquid. Alcohol significantly increases the sedative effects of promethazine, which can be dangerous. It can also increase the risk of liver damage when combined with paracetamol, particularly if you drink regularly or in larger amounts. Avoid alcohol entirely on any night you take this medicine.

What happens if I accidentally take too much Night Nurse Liquid?

If you take more than the recommended dose, seek medical attention immediately — even if you feel well. Paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver damage that may not be immediately apparent. Go to your nearest A&E or call 999 and take the medicine packaging with you so healthcare staff can see exactly what you have taken.

How long can you take Night Nurse Liquid for?

Night Nurse Liquid is intended for short-term use only — typically no more than three to five nights. If your cold or flu symptoms persist beyond this period, or if they worsen, you should consult your GP rather than continuing to self-medicate. Prolonged use of antihistamines and cough suppressants without medical supervision is not advisable.

Is Night Nurse Liquid suitable for children?

No. Night Nurse Liquid must not be given to children under 16 years of age. The promethazine content in particular is not safe for young children and has been associated with serious adverse effects in this age group. Parents should speak to a pharmacist about age-appropriate cold and flu remedies for children — our baby and toddler collection includes products suitable for younger patients.

What are the alternatives to Night Nurse Liquid?

If Night Nurse Liquid is not suitable for you, alternatives include single-ingredient remedies such as paracetamol for pain and fever, a separate antitussive for cough, or a decongestant nasal spray for congestion. Day Nurse Liquid is a non-drowsy daytime alternative containing different active ingredients. Your pharmacist can help you choose the most appropriate option based on your specific symptoms and medical history.

Does Night Nurse Liquid contain promethazine?

Yes. Each 20ml dose of Night Nurse Liquid contains promethazine hydrochloride 20mg. Promethazine is a first-generation antihistamine with sedative properties, which is why Night Nurse Liquid causes drowsiness and helps you sleep through cold and flu symptoms. It is this ingredient that makes the product unsuitable for daytime use, driving, or use in children under 16.

What are the latest recommendations on using cough and cold medicines in the UK?

The NHS advises that most colds and flu resolve on their own within one to two weeks, and that rest, fluids, and paracetamol or ibuprofen are the mainstay of self-care. Over-the-counter combination products like Night Nurse Liquid can help manage multiple symptoms at night but should not replace medical advice if symptoms are severe, prolonged, or accompanied by breathlessness, chest pain, or a high fever that does not respond to treatment. Always consult a pharmacist or GP if you are unsure.

How Should You Use Night Nurse Liquid?

Night Nurse Liquid is straightforward to use, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully to get the most benefit and avoid any risk. This medicine is for oral use only and should always be taken at bedtime — never during the day. Follow these steps each time you take a dose:

Because promethazine causes drowsiness, you should ensure you are ready for bed before taking your dose. Do not attempt to drive or operate machinery after taking Night Nurse Liquid.

What Is the Correct Dose of Night Nurse Liquid?

The dose of Night Nurse Liquid is the same for all eligible adults and young people aged 16 and over. There is no variation based on weight or symptom severity — the single recommended dose applies universally. Always stick to this dose and never take more, as exceeding the recommended amount increases the risk of paracetamol toxicity and other adverse effects.

When Is the Best Time to Use Night Nurse Liquid?

The clue is in the name — Night Nurse Liquid is designed exclusively for night-time use. Take your dose immediately before you go to bed, when you are already in a safe environment and have no further need to drive or be fully alert. The sedative effect of promethazine typically begins within 20 to 30 minutes, so timing your dose correctly means you are likely to fall asleep before the drowsiness becomes pronounced. Avoid taking it earlier in the evening if you still have tasks to complete.

How Long Can You Use Night Nurse Liquid For?

Night Nurse Liquid is intended for short-term use only. Most cold and flu episodes resolve within seven to ten days, and this medicine should not be used for more than three to five consecutive nights without seeking medical advice. If your symptoms are not improving after this period, or if they worsen at any point, contact your GP. Prolonged use of combination cold and flu remedies without medical supervision is not recommended, as it may mask symptoms of a more serious underlying condition that requires proper assessment and treatment.

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

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Helped ease my cough and stuffed nose

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Night Nurse Liquid?

The most frequently reported side effects of Night Nurse Liquid are largely related to the promethazine hydrochloride it contains. Promethazine is a first-generation antihistamine with well-known sedative and anticholinergic properties, and these account for the majority of effects people notice.

  • Drowsiness or sedation (expected and intentional at night)
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty passing urine

These effects are generally mild and resolve once the medicine wears off. Because drowsiness is expected, you must not drive or operate machinery the morning after taking Night Nurse Liquid until you are certain you are fully alert.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Night Nurse Liquid?

Some people experience side effects that are less frequent but still worth being aware of. These tend to occur more often in older adults or those who are more sensitive to antihistamines.

  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
  • Headache on waking
  • Confusion or disorientation (particularly in elderly patients)
  • Photosensitivity — increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight the following day
  • Restlessness or paradoxical excitability (more common in children, which is one reason this product is not suitable for under-16s)
  • Palpitations

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Night Nurse Liquid?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention if they occur. Paracetamol overdose — even accidental — can cause severe liver damage that may not produce obvious symptoms for several days. This is why it is critical never to exceed the stated dose and never to take Night Nurse Liquid alongside any other paracetamol-containing product.

Seek emergency help immediately if you experience any of the following: swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; a severe skin rash or hives; loss of consciousness; or chest pain. These may indicate a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) or another medical emergency.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as dry mouth or morning drowsiness, no specific treatment is usually needed — staying hydrated and allowing time for the medicine to clear your system is generally sufficient. If you find the drowsiness is lasting well into the following day, consider whether you took the dose too early in the evening, and adjust accordingly next time.

If you experience any side effect that concerns you, or if a side effect persists or worsens, stop taking the medicine and speak to your pharmacist or GP. Never ignore a side effect that feels unusual or severe.

Can Night Nurse Liquid Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — Night Nurse Liquid has several clinically significant interactions. Taking it alongside other medicines containing paracetamol increases the risk of accidental overdose. Combining it with sedatives, sleeping tablets, or alcohol amplifies the drowsiness caused by promethazine to a potentially dangerous degree. People taking MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) must not take Night Nurse Liquid, as dextromethorphan combined with MAOIs can cause a serious and potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. SSRIs may also interact with dextromethorphan. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine you are currently taking before purchasing 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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