LEMSIP MAX Cold and Flu Lemon Flavour Sachets 10s

Lemsip Max Cold & Flu Lemon Sachets are an over-the-counter hot lemon drink powder containing paracetamol 1000mg and phenylephrine hydrochloride 12.2mg per sachet, dissolved in hot water for the relief of cold and flu symptoms including aches, headache, sore throat, blocked nose and fever, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults and people aged 16 and over with a cold or flu who want a warm, soothing drink alongside symptom relief
• People with a sore throat who find a hot drink comforting
• People who want a full 1000mg paracetamol dose per serving in one sachet
• People with a blocked or stuffy nose alongside aches or a fever

Not suitable for: children under 16; anyone allergic to any ingredient; people with serious heart disease, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, an enlarged prostate, phaeochromocytoma, diabetes or closed-angle glaucoma; and anyone taking an MAOI antidepressant or within 14 days of stopping one. Do not combine with other paracetamol-containing products or other sympathomimetic decongestants. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you have liver or kidney problems, Raynaud’s syndrome, a history of stomach ulcers, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or take other medicines. If you take medicine for bipolar disorder or follow a low-salt diet, ask a pharmacist before use.

How to use

1. Read the patient information leaflet inside the pack before you start.
2. Empty one sachet into a mug and fill with hot — not boiling — water.
3. Stir until the powder has dissolved. You may sweeten with sugar or honey if you wish, then drink while hot.
4. Adults and children aged 16 and over: take one sachet every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not take more than 4 sachets in 24 hours.
5. If symptoms last more than 5 days or get worse, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Frequently asked questions

How many Lemsip sachets can I take a day?

Adults and children aged 16 and over can take one sachet every 4 to 6 hours. Do not take more than 4 sachets in 24 hours, because each sachet contains a full 1000mg dose of paracetamol.

Can I take Lemsip sachets with paracetamol tablets?

No. Each sachet already contains 1000mg of paracetamol, so you must not take it alongside paracetamol tablets or any other paracetamol-containing product. Combining paracetamol products risks a serious overdose.

Should I use boiling water for Lemsip?

No. Use hot water that is not boiling, then stir until the powder dissolves. Let it cool enough to drink safely. Boiling water is not needed and can scald.

Can I take Lemsip sachets if I have high blood pressure?

Not without checking first. The phenylephrine decongestant can raise blood pressure, so these sachets are not suitable if you have heart disease or high blood pressure. Seek advice about an appropriate alternative.

How are the sachets different from the Lemsip Max capsules?

Each sachet contains 1000mg of paracetamol and is dissolved in hot water, with a maximum of 4 sachets in 24 hours. The capsules contain 500mg of paracetamol each and added caffeine, with a maximum of 8 capsules in 24 hours. Follow the instructions for whichever one you are using.

Safety & storage

• Contains paracetamol. Do not take with any other paracetamol-containing products. Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of an overdose, even if you feel well.
• Do not exceed the stated dose of 4 sachets in 24 hours.
• Do not take if you have high blood pressure or heart disease without advice, or alongside other decongestants.
• If symptoms persist for more than 5 days or get worse, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
• Store below 25 degrees Celsius in a dry place, away from direct sunlight, and keep out of the sight and reach of children.

References

• NHS — Flu
• NHS — Common cold
• Lemsip Max Cold & Flu Sachets Patient Information Leaflet via emc

This page provides factual information about an over-the-counter cold and flu medicine. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If symptoms persist or you are unsure whether this product is right for you, speak to a pharmacist. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.