What it is
Night Nurse Capsules are an over-the-counter cold and flu medicine designed for night-time use. They contain paracetamol, promethazine, and dextromethorphan to help relieve multiple symptoms while helping you get a restful night's sleep.
How it works
Each capsule contains three active ingredients that target different symptoms. Paracetamol helps reduce fever and relieve aches or pain. Promethazine, an antihistamine, helps dry a runny nose and aids sleep. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that helps reduce persistent or irritating coughs.
Each capsule contains paracetamol 500 mg, promethazine hydrochloride 10 mg and dextromethorphan hydrobromide 7.5 mg.
How to use
For adults and young people aged 16 and over: take two capsules with water at bedtime only. Take only one dose per night, for no more than three days. Allow at least four hours between Night Nurse and any other paracetamol medicine. The adult total from all products must not exceed 4,000 mg in any 24 hours; do not take Night Nurse if you have already had four paracetamol doses that day.
If you take more than the recommended dose, get medical help immediately, even if you feel well. Too much paracetamol can cause serious liver damage that is delayed. Take the packet and any remaining medicine with you. Call 999 for breathing difficulties, collapse or unconsciousness.
Who it's for
Night Nurse Capsules are suitable for adults and teenagers aged 16 years and above who need relief from cold and flu symptoms at night, such as a blocked or runny nose, cough, sore throat, headache, fever, or aches and pains.
When should these capsules not be used?
Do not use Night Nurse Capsules if you:
- Do not use under age 16, if allergic to an ingredient, with a chest infection, worsening asthma or severe breathing problems, or if you have taken an MAOI antidepressant in the last two weeks.
- Do not combine with other cough or cold products or antihistamines, including skin products.
Ask before use: heart, liver or kidney problems; glaucoma; epilepsy; prostate or urinary problems; persistent cough or other breathing conditions; sedatives or regular medicines. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not give to an older person who is confused.
Drowsiness and driving
Night Nurse Capsules can cause drowsiness due to the antihistamine promethazine. This effect may last into the following morning. Do not drive, cycle, or operate machinery after taking Night Nurse or if you still feel drowsy. Avoid drinking alcohol, as it can increase sleepiness and reduce alertness.
Common interactions
Night Nurse may interact with antidepressants (such as MAOIs), sedatives, tranquillisers, or other cough and cold medicines. Do not use within 14 days of taking an MAOI antidepressant. Speak to your pharmacist or GP before use if you take regular medication.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
Night Nurse Capsules are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine.
Possible side effects
Like all medicines, Night Nurse Capsules can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.
Common side effects include:
- Feeling sleepy or drowsy
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
Less common effects may include:
- Nausea
- Confusion or hallucinations especially in older adults
- Stomach upset
Stop taking the capsules and seek medical help immediately if you experience:
- Allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Irregular heartbeat
- Severe stomach pain
- Difficulty passing urine
- Skin rash, peeling, mouth ulcers
Sources and further information
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Night Nurse with painkillers like ibuprofen?
Ibuprofen may be an option if it is suitable for you; ask a pharmacist before combining medicines. If taking paracetamol during the day, leave at least four hours before Night Nurse and count its 1,000 mg towards the daily total. Follow the dosing limits above.
Will Night Nurse make me sleepy?
Yes. Promethazine, an antihistamine in Night Nurse, can cause drowsiness and is intended to help you sleep while you recover from cold or flu symptoms.
Can I take Night Nurse every night?
Night Nurse is meant for short-term use when you have cold or flu symptoms. Do not use it continuously for more than three nights without medical advice.
