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Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night – 16 Capsules

Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night – 16 Capsules

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  • ✔️ Relieves nasal congestion, sinus pain, and headache simultaneously
  • ✔️ Day capsules keep you alert; night capsules promote restful sleep
  • ✔️ Contains paracetamol 500mg for effective fever and pain control
  • ✔️ Pseudoephedrine decongestant opens blocked nasal passages quickly
  • ✔️ Suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over

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What Is Sudafed Congestion and Headache Relief?

 

When a cold or flu hits, it rarely arrives alone. The blocked nose, the throbbing head, the general sense that your face is full of cement — it all tends to land at once. Sudafed congestion and headache relief in the form of these Day & Night capsules is designed to tackle exactly that combination, giving you targeted symptom control around the clock. Each pack of 16 capsules contains two distinct formulations: daytime capsules to keep you functional, and night-time capsules to help you actually sleep.

This is an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine available without a prescription. It is suitable for adults and children aged 12 and over. If you are already browsing our cold and flu range, you will find this product sits neatly alongside other trusted remedies for seasonal illness.

 

How Do the Day and Night Capsules Work Differently?

 

The two capsule types share one active ingredient — paracetamol 500 mg — but differ in their second ingredient, and that difference matters.

  • Day capsules contain pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30 mg, a sympathomimetic decongestant. It works by causing vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) in the nasal mucosa, which reduces swelling and opens up the nasal passages so you can breathe more easily.
  • Night capsules contain diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25 mg instead of pseudoephedrine. Diphenhydramine is a first-generation antihistamine with sedative properties, helping you drift off when congestion and discomfort would otherwise keep you awake.
  • Paracetamol in both formulations acts centrally to reduce pain signals and lower fever, addressing the headache and general aches that often accompany a cold.

So in short: the day capsules clear your head and keep you going, while the night capsules ease discomfort and encourage rest. Both mechanisms are well established in clinical practice.

 

Who Is This Product Suitable For?

 

These capsules are intended for adults and young people aged 12 and over who are experiencing cold or flu symptoms involving nasal congestion, sinus pressure, and headache. They are particularly useful when symptoms are disrupting both daytime activity and night-time sleep.

  • Adults aged 18 and over with cold or flu symptoms
  • Adolescents aged 12–17 (under adult supervision)
  • People who need separate day and night symptom management
  • Those who prefer a combined analgesic and decongestant in one capsule

This product is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant or breastfeeding women (without medical advice), or people with certain underlying health conditions — see the contraindications section below.

 

How Does Sudafed Day & Night Compare to Similar Products?

 

Feature Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night Lemsip Max Day & Night Capsules
Daytime active ingredients Paracetamol 500 mg + Pseudoephedrine 30 mg Paracetamol 500 mg + Pseudoephedrine 30 mg
Night-time active ingredients Paracetamol 500 mg + Diphenhydramine 25 mg Paracetamol 500 mg + Diphenhydramine 25 mg
Pack size 16 capsules Typically 16 capsules
Dosage form Hard capsules Hard capsules

 

How Should You Store These Capsules?

 

Store Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night capsules below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the pack out of the reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the capsules after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

If you are managing multiple symptoms this winter — for example, if sinus congestion is also affecting your ears — it may be worth exploring our ear, nose and throat range for complementary products. Sudafed congestion and headache relief is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

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.

Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night – 16 Capsules specifications
Treatment category Cold and flu symptom relief
Mechanism of action Analgesic/antipyretic (paracetamol); nasal decongestant (pseudoephedrine); sedating antihistamine (diphenhydramine)
Effective for Nasal congestion, sinus headache, cold and flu symptoms, disturbed sleep due to congestion
Suitable for Adults and children aged 12 and over
Active ingredients (day) Paracetamol 500 mg, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride 30 mg
Active ingredients (night) Paracetamol 500 mg, Diphenhydramine hydrochloride 25 mg
Pack size 16 capsules (12 day + 4 night)
UK classification Pharmacy (P) medicine
Drug class Analgesic, decongestant, antihistamine combination
Preparation Hard capsules
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night – 16 Capsules

 

What Is Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night and What Is It Used For?

 

Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night is a combination OTC medicine used to relieve the symptoms of colds and flu in adults and children aged 12 and over. It addresses nasal congestion, sinus pain, headache, and fever. The dual-pack format means you get a stimulating decongestant during the day and a sedating formulation at night — so your treatment adapts to your daily rhythm rather than working against it.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

 

Before taking these capsules, read the following carefully. Some people should not use this product at all, and others may need to take extra care.

Do not take if you:

  • Are under 12 years of age
  • Are allergic to paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, diphenhydramine, or any other ingredient
  • Are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
  • Have severe or uncontrolled high blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Have severe coronary artery disease or heart disease
  • Have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
  • Have closed-angle glaucoma
  • Have difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding without first speaking to a doctor

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking if you:

  • Have liver or kidney problems
  • Have diabetes
  • Have mild to moderate high blood pressure
  • Have a history of epilepsy
  • Regularly drink alcohol

Known drug interactions — do not take alongside:

  • Other medicines containing paracetamol (risk of overdose)
  • Other decongestants or sympathomimetics
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Beta-blockers
  • CNS depressants, sedatives, or sleeping tablets (night capsules)
  • Alcohol (increases sedation from night capsules)

 

How Should You Use Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

 

Always read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before use. Take the capsules exactly as directed and never exceed the stated dose. If you are also looking for additional pain relief options, check that any other product you use does not also contain paracetamol.

  1. Swallow capsules whole with a full glass of water.
  2. Do not crush or chew the capsules.
  3. Take day capsules during waking hours only.
  4. Take night capsules at bedtime — not during the day.
  5. Leave at least 4 hours between doses.
  6. Do not take more than 4 doses of day capsules in 24 hours.
  7. Take only 1 dose of night capsules per 24-hour period.
Capsule type Age group Dose Frequency
Day capsules Adults & children 12+ 2 capsules Up to 4 times daily (every 4–6 hours)
Night capsules Adults & children 12+ 2 capsules Once at bedtime only
Day or night capsules Under 12 Not suitable — do not use

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

 

Like all medicines, this product can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Stop taking the capsules and seek medical advice if you experience anything severe or unexpected.

Common side effects:

  • Drowsiness or sedation (particularly from night capsules)
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Difficulty sleeping or restlessness (from day capsules)
  • Nausea

Less common side effects:

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

If you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction — such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing — stop taking the product immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

 

How Should You Store Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

 

  • Store below 25°C in a dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
  • Keep out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date on the pack
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused capsules to your pharmacy

If you are managing a range of winter health concerns, our vitamins and supplements range includes immune-support options that may complement your recovery. Always complete any course of treatment as directed and speak to your pharmacist if symptoms persist beyond 5 days.

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 Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night online in the UK?

You can buy Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night 16 capsules directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for just £4.79. It is classed as a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so it is available without a prescription. You can also find it in most high street pharmacies and larger supermarkets across the UK.

How does Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night work in the body?

The day capsules contain pseudoephedrine, which narrows blood vessels in the nasal lining to reduce swelling and relieve congestion, alongside paracetamol to ease headache and fever. The night capsules swap pseudoephedrine for diphenhydramine, a sedating antihistamine that helps you sleep while paracetamol continues to manage pain. Together, the two formulations provide round-the-clock symptom control tailored to your waking and sleeping hours.

How do I take Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night step by step?

Take two day capsules up to four times daily during waking hours, leaving at least four hours between each dose. At bedtime, take two night capsules — this is your one and only night-time dose in a 24-hour period. Swallow all capsules whole with a full glass of water and never crush or chew them.

What is the correct dose of Sudafed Congestion & Headache for adults?

For adults and children aged 12 and over, the dose is two day capsules up to four times in 24 hours and two night capsules once at bedtime. Do not exceed eight day capsules or one night-time dose in any 24-hour period. If you are unsure whether the dose is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before taking.

Can I drive after taking Sudafed Congestion & Headache night capsules?

No — the night capsules contain diphenhydramine, which causes drowsiness and can impair your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. You should take the night capsules only at bedtime and avoid alcohol at the same time, as this increases sedation. The day capsules do not contain diphenhydramine, so they are less likely to cause drowsiness, but you should still be cautious if you feel any unusual effects.

What are the side effects of Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

Common side effects include drowsiness from the night capsules, dry mouth, and occasional difficulty sleeping or restlessness from the day capsules due to pseudoephedrine's stimulant effect. Less commonly, you may notice palpitations, raised blood pressure, or difficulty passing urine. If you experience a severe allergic reaction — such as facial swelling or breathing difficulty — stop taking the product immediately and seek emergency medical help.

Who should not take Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

This product is not suitable for children under 12, people taking MAOIs, or those with severe hypertension, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, closed-angle glaucoma, or urinary retention due to an enlarged prostate. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should speak to a doctor before use. If you have liver or kidney problems, diabetes, or epilepsy, check with your pharmacist first.

Can I take Sudafed Congestion & Headache alongside other cold medicines?

No — you must not take this product with any other medicine containing paracetamol, as this significantly increases the risk of paracetamol overdose, which can cause serious liver damage. You should also avoid other decongestants or antihistamines at the same time. Always check the ingredients of any other cold or flu remedy before combining it with this product, and ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

How long can I take Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night for?

You should not use this product for more than five consecutive days without seeking medical advice. If your symptoms have not improved after five days, or if they worsen at any point, speak to your GP or pharmacist. Prolonged use of decongestants can sometimes cause rebound congestion, so short-term use is always recommended.

What happens if I accidentally take too many Sudafed capsules?

If you take more than the recommended dose, seek medical advice immediately — even if you feel well — because paracetamol overdose can cause delayed but serious liver damage. Go to your nearest A&E or call 111 and take the pack with you so healthcare professionals can see exactly what you have taken. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before seeking help.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Sudafed Congestion & Headache?

If you miss a dose, simply take the next one when it is due — do not double up to make up for a missed dose. Because this is a symptom-relief medicine rather than a treatment course, missing a single dose will not affect your overall recovery. Just continue as normal and ensure you leave at least four hours between day capsule doses.

Is Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night suitable during pregnancy?

Pseudoephedrine is generally not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, and diphenhydramine should also be used with caution. If you are pregnant or think you might be, speak to your GP or midwife before taking this product. There may be safer alternatives for managing cold symptoms during pregnancy.

What are the alternatives to Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

Alternatives include Lemsip Max Day & Night capsules, which contain the same active ingredients, or separate products such as a plain paracetamol tablet combined with a standalone nasal decongestant spray. You can browse our full cold and flu range to compare options. If your symptoms include significant sinus or ear involvement, our ear, nose and throat collection may also be helpful.

Can I take Sudafed Congestion & Headache if I have high blood pressure?

Pseudoephedrine in the day capsules can raise blood pressure, so this product is not recommended for people with severe or uncontrolled hypertension. If your blood pressure is mildly elevated and well controlled, speak to your pharmacist or GP before taking it. There are decongestant-free alternatives that may be more appropriate for people with cardiovascular concerns.

What is the latest guidance on using pseudoephedrine-containing medicines in the UK?

The MHRA and NHS continue to recognise pseudoephedrine as an effective short-term nasal decongestant when used as directed in adults and children aged 12 and over. It remains available as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be sold without a prescription but only through a registered pharmacy. Current guidance emphasises limiting use to five days and avoiding it in people with cardiovascular conditions or those taking MAOIs.

How Should You Use Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before taking these capsules. This product contains two distinct capsule types — day and night — and it is important to use each one at the correct time of day. Swallow capsules whole with a full glass of water; do not crush, chew, or open them.

What Is the Correct Dose of Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

The dosage differs between the day and night formulations, so always check which capsule type you are taking before swallowing. Never exceed the maximum stated dose in any 24-hour period, and do not take this product alongside any other medicine containing paracetamol.

When Is the Best Time to Use Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

Take the day capsules at the first sign of symptoms in the morning and repeat every four to six hours as needed throughout the day. 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. Avoid taking the night capsules if you need to be alert within the next eight hours.

How Long Can You Use Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night For?

This product is intended for short-term use only. Do not take it for more than five consecutive days without speaking to your GP or pharmacist. Cold and flu symptoms typically begin to improve within a few days; if yours are not improving or are getting worse after five days, you should seek medical advice rather than continuing to self-treat. Prolonged use of pseudoephedrine-containing decongestants is not recommended.

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 Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

Most people tolerate this product well when taken as directed, but some side effects can occur. The most frequently reported ones are linked to the specific active ingredients in each capsule type.

  • Drowsiness or sedation (primarily from the night capsules containing diphenhydramine)
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Difficulty sleeping or mild restlessness (from pseudoephedrine in the day capsules)
  • Nausea or mild stomach upset
  • Dizziness

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

Less commonly, some people experience side effects related to the cardiovascular or urinary effects of pseudoephedrine, or the anticholinergic effects of diphenhydramine. These are more likely in people with pre-existing conditions or those taking interacting medicines.

  • Palpitations or a noticeably faster heartbeat
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Urinary retention (difficulty passing urine) — more common in men with an enlarged prostate
  • Blurred vision
  • Headache with prolonged or excessive use
  • Skin rash or itching
  • Tremor or anxiety (from pseudoephedrine)

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Paracetamol overdose — which can occur if you take this product alongside other paracetamol-containing medicines — can cause severe liver damage, and symptoms may not appear for several days after the overdose. If you suspect you have taken too much paracetamol, go to A&E immediately, even if you feel well.

A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is also possible, though uncommon. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. This is a medical emergency — call 999 without delay.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as dry mouth or drowsiness, these often resolve on their own once you stop taking the product. If drowsiness from the night capsules persists into the following day, avoid driving or operating machinery until it has fully cleared. For any side effect that concerns you, or that does not improve, contact your pharmacist or GP for advice.

You can also report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. Reporting helps improve the safety information available for all medicines.

Can Sudafed Congestion & Headache Day & Night Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — this product has several clinically significant interactions. Taking it alongside MAOIs (or within 14 days of stopping them) can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Combining it with other paracetamol-containing products risks overdose. The night capsules' sedative effect is amplified by alcohol, sleeping tablets, and other CNS depressants. Pseudoephedrine may also interact with beta-blockers and tricyclic antidepressants. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently 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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