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Panadol Period Pain - 14 x 500mg/65mg Tablets

Panadol Period Pain - 14 x 500mg/65mg Tablets

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  • ✔️ Targets menstrual cramps with paracetamol and caffeine
  • ✔️ Caffeine enhances paracetamol's pain-relieving effect
  • ✔️ Suitable for ages 12 and over with adjusted dosing
  • ✔️ Fast-acting oral tablets for period pain relief
  • ✔️ 14-tablet pack covers a full menstrual pain cycle

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What Are Panadol Period Pain Tablets?

 

Period pain is something millions of people in the UK experience every month — and for many, it can be genuinely disruptive. Period pain tablets like Panadol Period Pain are specifically formulated to target the cramping discomfort that comes with menstruation. Each tablet contains two active ingredients: 500mg of paracetamol and 65mg of caffeine, working together to help ease that familiar aching, dragging sensation in your lower abdomen. You can find Panadol Period Pain and other options in our pain relief collection at Cured Pharmacy.

Dysmenorrhoea — the medical term for painful periods — affects a significant proportion of people who menstruate, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to pain severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Panadol Period Pain is an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine, meaning you do not need a prescription to buy it. It comes in a pack of 14 tablets, priced at just £2.79, making it an accessible option for short-term menstrual pain relief.

 

How Do Panadol Period Pain Tablets Work?

 

Understanding how this medicine works can help you use it more confidently. The two active ingredients each play a distinct role:

  • Paracetamol (500mg): Acts on the central nervous system to reduce the perception of pain. It inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins in the brain, which are chemical messengers involved in transmitting pain signals.
  • Caffeine (65mg): Acts as an adjuvant analgesic — meaning it enhances the pain-relieving effect of paracetamol. Research suggests caffeine can increase the efficacy of paracetamol by up to 40% in some pain conditions.
  • Combined effect: Together, these ingredients address both the intensity of pain signals and the body's response to them, making the combination more effective than paracetamol alone for some people.

It is worth noting that Panadol Period Pain does not treat the underlying cause of period pain — it manages the symptoms. If your pain is severe or worsening, a conversation with your GP is always worthwhile.

 

Who Should Use Panadol Period Pain Tablets?

 

This medicine is designed for people who experience menstrual cramps and want a targeted, short-term solution. It is suitable for:

  • Adults and young people aged 16 and over (full adult dose)
  • Young people aged 12 to 15 (at a reduced dose — see dosage section)
  • Those who find standard paracetamol alone insufficient for period pain relief
  • People looking for a caffeine-enhanced analgesic without a prescription

It is not suitable for children under 12, or for anyone with a known allergy to paracetamol or caffeine. If you have liver or kidney problems, or regularly consume alcohol, speak to your pharmacist before use. For broader women's health support, you might also want to explore our women's health range.

 

How Does Panadol Period Pain Compare to Standard Paracetamol?

 

Feature Panadol Period Pain (500mg/65mg) Standard Paracetamol (500mg)
Active ingredients Paracetamol + Caffeine Paracetamol only
Indicated for period pain Yes — specifically formulated General pain relief only
Enhanced analgesic effect Yes — caffeine boosts efficacy No adjuvant ingredient
Suitable for ages 12+ Yes (dose adjusted) Yes (dose adjusted)

 

How Should You Store Panadol Period Pain Tablets?

 

Store your period pain tablets below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep them out of sight and reach of children at all times. Do not use the tablets after the expiry date printed on the packaging — if in doubt, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.

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.

Panadol Period Pain 14 x 500mg/65mg Tablets specifications
Treatment category Period pain / Dysmenorrhoea
Mechanism of action Central analgesic (paracetamol) + adjuvant analgesic (caffeine)
Effective for Menstrual cramps and associated pain
Suitable for Ages 12 and over
Active ingredient Paracetamol 500mg, Caffeine 65mg
Pack size 14 tablets
Strengths 500mg paracetamol / 65mg caffeine per tablet
UK classification General Sale List (GSL)
Drug class Analgesic / Antipyretic
Preparation Film-coated tablet
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Panadol Period Pain 14 x 500mg/65mg Tablets

 

What Is Panadol Period Pain and What Is It Used For?

 

Panadol Period Pain is an over-the-counter analgesic medicine used to relieve the pain associated with menstruation, commonly known as period pain or dysmenorrhoea. Each tablet contains paracetamol 500mg and caffeine 65mg. The caffeine is included not as a stimulant in the traditional sense, but because it is clinically recognised to enhance the pain-relieving effect of paracetamol. This makes the combination particularly useful when standard paracetamol alone has not provided sufficient relief from menstrual cramps.

Period pain typically presents as cramping or aching in the lower abdomen, and may also be accompanied by lower back pain, nausea, or headache. Panadol Period Pain addresses the pain component directly. It is not a hormonal treatment and does not affect your menstrual cycle in any way.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Panadol Period Pain?

 

Before taking these tablets, it is important to check whether they are appropriate for you. Do not take Panadol Period Pain if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to paracetamol, caffeine, or any other ingredient in the tablets
  • You have severe liver or kidney disease
  • You are under 12 years of age
  • You are already taking another medicine containing paracetamol — this risks exceeding the safe daily limit
  • You have phenylketonuria (if the tablets contain aspartame — check the PIL)
  • You have a known sensitivity to caffeine or experience anxiety, palpitations, or insomnia with caffeine

The following medicines may interact with Panadol Period Pain. Always tell your pharmacist or doctor what you are taking:

  • Warfarin and other anticoagulants — regular paracetamol use may enhance anticoagulant effect
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) — caffeine interactions are possible
  • Other paracetamol-containing products (e.g. cold and flu remedies, co-codamol)
  • Metoclopramide or domperidone — may affect how quickly paracetamol is absorbed
  • Cholestyramine — may reduce paracetamol absorption if taken simultaneously

 

How Should You Use Panadol Period Pain?

 

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your pack before taking this medicine. Follow these steps for safe use:

  1. Check the expiry date on the packaging before use.
  2. Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water — do not crush or chew them.
  3. Take the correct dose for your age group (see table below).
  4. Leave at least four hours between doses.
  5. Do not take more than the maximum daily dose in any 24-hour period.
  6. Do not take alongside any other paracetamol-containing product.
  7. If pain persists beyond three days, stop use and consult your GP.
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum Daily Dose
Adults and young people aged 16+ 2 tablets Up to 4 times daily 8 tablets (4g paracetamol)
Young people aged 12–15 1 tablet Up to 4 times daily 4 tablets (2g paracetamol)
Children under 12 Not suitable — do not use

If you are managing other symptoms alongside period pain — such as bloating or cramping unrelated to your cycle — you may find it helpful to browse our IBS and cramps collection for additional support options.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Panadol Period Pain?

 

Like all medicines, Panadol Period Pain can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most people tolerate it well when taken at the recommended dose.

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

  • Nausea
  • Stomach discomfort
  • Mild sleep disturbance (due to caffeine content)
  • Restlessness or mild anxiety (caffeine-related)

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

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Headache (paradoxically, particularly with overuse)
  • Palpitations (caffeine-related, especially if you are sensitive)

Serious allergic reactions to paracetamol are rare but can occur. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction. If you notice any of these, stop taking the tablets immediately and seek emergency medical help. Liver damage can occur if you take more than the recommended dose — never exceed the stated amount, even if you feel your pain is not controlled.

 

How Should You Store Panadol Period Pain?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Do not store in a bathroom or near a sink — moisture can degrade the tablets
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children at all times
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
  • Do not dispose of medicines via household waste — return unused tablets to your pharmacy

For other health concerns that sometimes accompany your cycle — such as thrush or bladder discomfort — you can explore our cystitis and bladder infection range for relevant OTC options.

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 Panadol Period Pain tablets online in the UK?

You can buy Panadol Period Pain 14 x 500mg/65mg tablets directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy. No prescription is needed as it is a General Sale List (GSL) medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door. You can also browse our full pain relief collection for related products.

How do Panadol Period Pain tablets work in the body?

Panadol Period Pain contains paracetamol, which reduces pain signals in the central nervous system by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the brain. The added caffeine (65mg per tablet) acts as an adjuvant analgesic, enhancing the effectiveness of paracetamol. Together, they provide more targeted relief from menstrual cramps than paracetamol alone.

What is the correct dose of Panadol Period Pain for adults?

Adults and young people aged 16 and over should take two tablets up to four times a day, leaving at least four hours between each dose. The maximum dose is eight tablets in any 24-hour period, which equates to 4g of paracetamol. Never exceed this limit, as doing so can cause serious liver damage.

Can teenagers take Panadol Period Pain tablets?

Yes — young people aged 12 to 15 can take Panadol Period Pain at a reduced dose of one tablet up to four times daily, with at least four hours between doses. The maximum for this age group is four tablets in 24 hours. These tablets are not suitable for children under 12 years of age.

Can I take Panadol Period Pain if I am pregnant?

You should speak to your GP or midwife before taking Panadol Period Pain during pregnancy. While paracetamol is generally considered the first-choice painkiller in pregnancy, the caffeine content in these tablets means professional guidance is essential. Your doctor can advise on the safest option for your individual circumstances.

Can I take Panadol Period Pain while breastfeeding?

Paracetamol is generally considered safe during breastfeeding at recommended doses, but the caffeine component may pass into breast milk in small amounts. It is advisable to speak to your pharmacist or GP before using these tablets if you are breastfeeding, so they can help you weigh up the benefits and any potential risks.

What are the side effects of Panadol Period Pain tablets?

Most people tolerate Panadol Period Pain well at the recommended dose. Possible side effects include nausea, mild stomach discomfort, restlessness, or sleep disturbance — the latter two being related to the caffeine content. Skin rash or allergic reactions are rare but require you to stop the medicine and seek medical advice promptly.

Can I take Panadol Period Pain with ibuprofen?

Paracetamol and ibuprofen work through different mechanisms and can sometimes be used together for pain relief, but you should always check with your pharmacist before combining them. Never take Panadol Period Pain alongside any other product containing paracetamol, as this risks exceeding the safe daily limit and causing liver damage.

What happens if I accidentally take too many Panadol Period Pain tablets?

Taking too many tablets — even if you feel well — can cause serious liver damage due to the paracetamol content. If you think you or someone else has taken an overdose, go to your nearest A&E immediately or call 999. Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as liver damage may not be obvious straight away.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Panadol Period Pain?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next one when needed — as long as at least four hours have passed since your last dose. Do not double up to compensate for a missed dose. Period pain tablets like these are taken as needed for symptom relief, not on a strict schedule, so missing one dose is not a concern.

How long can I take Panadol Period Pain for?

Panadol Period Pain is intended for short-term use only — typically for the duration of your period, which is usually three to five days. If your pain persists beyond three days, is getting worse, or is not responding to the tablets, you should stop use and speak to your GP. Persistent or severe period pain can sometimes indicate an underlying condition such as endometriosis or fibroids.

Is Panadol Period Pain the same as regular Panadol?

No — while both products contain paracetamol 500mg, Panadol Period Pain also includes 65mg of caffeine per tablet. This caffeine is added specifically to enhance the analgesic effect, making the combination more effective for menstrual pain than standard paracetamol alone. Regular Panadol does not contain caffeine.

What are the alternatives to Panadol Period Pain for menstrual cramps?

Alternatives include ibuprofen (an NSAID that also reduces prostaglandin production and is often very effective for period pain), naproxen, or mefenamic acid (available on prescription). Non-medicinal options include heat therapy, gentle exercise, and TENS machines. If you are looking for broader support, our women's health range includes a variety of relevant products.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Panadol Period Pain?

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking paracetamol-containing medicines, particularly if you drink regularly or in large amounts. Alcohol combined with paracetamol increases the risk of liver damage. The caffeine in these tablets may also interact with alcohol, potentially masking its sedative effects — another reason to avoid combining the two.

What does the latest research say about caffeine and period pain relief?

Clinical evidence supports the use of caffeine as an adjuvant analgesic — meaning it boosts the effectiveness of paracetamol when the two are combined. A Cochrane review found that adding caffeine to paracetamol increased the proportion of patients achieving meaningful pain relief compared to paracetamol alone. This is the scientific basis for the formulation used in Panadol Period Pain tablets.

How Should You Use Panadol Period Pain?

Panadol Period Pain tablets are taken orally with water. Always swallow them whole — do not crush, chew, or dissolve them. Read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before you start, and follow these steps each time you take a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Panadol Period Pain?

The dose varies depending on your age. It is important to stick to the correct amount — taking more than recommended does not improve pain relief and significantly increases the risk of liver damage from the paracetamol content.

When Is the Best Time to Use Panadol Period Pain?

For best results, take Panadol Period Pain at the first sign of menstrual pain rather than waiting until the discomfort becomes severe. Some people find that taking a dose before pain peaks — for example, at the start of their period when cramping typically begins — helps them stay ahead of the pain cycle. Taking the tablets with or after food may help reduce any stomach discomfort, particularly if you are sensitive to medicines on an empty stomach.

If you know from experience that your period pain tends to be worst on the first one or two days of your cycle, you can plan your doses accordingly — always keeping to the four-hour gap between doses and the maximum daily limit.

How Long Can You Use Panadol Period Pain For?

Panadol Period Pain is designed for short-term use only. You should not take it for more than three consecutive days without speaking to a doctor or pharmacist. Most people use it for the first two to three days of their period, when cramping is typically at its worst. If your pain is not improving after three days, is getting progressively worse, or is occurring outside of your period, this could indicate an underlying condition — such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids — that requires medical assessment. Do not use these tablets as a long-term solution without professional guidance.

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 Panadol Period Pain?

Most people who take Panadol Period Pain at the recommended dose do not experience significant side effects. However, as with any medicine, some people may notice unwanted effects. The most commonly reported ones are linked to either the paracetamol or the caffeine component of the tablets.

  • Nausea or mild stomach upset
  • Restlessness or feeling jittery (caffeine-related)
  • Mild difficulty sleeping, particularly if taken later in the day (caffeine-related)
  • Increased heart rate or mild palpitations in caffeine-sensitive individuals

These effects are generally mild and tend to resolve on their own. Taking the tablets with food can help reduce stomach discomfort.

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Panadol Period Pain?

Less commonly, some people may experience the following. If any of these persist or concern you, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Skin rash or itching
  • Headache — particularly with frequent or prolonged use (medication overuse headache)
  • Dizziness
  • Increased anxiety or nervousness (caffeine-related)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Panadol Period Pain?

Serious side effects are rare when Panadol Period Pain is taken correctly, but they can occur. The most significant risk is liver damage from paracetamol overdose — this can happen even if you feel well at the time of taking too many tablets. Symptoms of liver damage may not appear for several days, which is why it is critical never to exceed the stated dose.

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to paracetamol are very rare but can be life-threatening. Seek emergency medical help immediately if you notice any of the following:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe skin reaction — blistering, peeling, or widespread rash
  • Sudden drop in blood pressure or loss of consciousness

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

If you experience mild side effects such as nausea or restlessness, try taking the tablets with food and avoid caffeine from other sources (coffee, energy drinks, tea) while using this medicine. If side effects are more troublesome or do not settle, stop taking the tablets and speak to your pharmacist. In the case of a suspected overdose — even if you feel fine — go to A&E immediately or call 999. Do not wait for symptoms to develop.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Panadol Period Pain Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — interactions are possible, and it is important to tell your pharmacist about everything you are taking before starting these tablets. Key interactions include warfarin (regular paracetamol use can enhance its anticoagulant effect), other paracetamol-containing products (risk of exceeding the safe daily dose), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). The caffeine component may also interact with stimulant medications or other caffeine-containing products, potentially increasing cardiovascular side effects. Always check with your pharmacist if you are unsure.

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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