What it is
Night Nurse Liquid is an over-the-counter cold and flu medicine for night-time use. It contains paracetamol, promethazine and dextromethorphan to relieve multiple symptoms and help you sleep more comfortably.
How it works
Paracetamol reduces fever and relieves aches and pains. Promethazine (an antihistamine) helps dry a runny nose and can make you drowsy, aiding sleep. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that helps calm a persistent, irritating cough.
How to use
Adults and teenagers aged 16 years and over: take one 20 ml dose (four 5 ml spoonfuls) just before bedtime. Only one dose per night. Do not use for more than 3 nights without medical advice. Leave at least 4 hours after any daytime paracetamol-containing medicine and do not take with other products that contain paracetamol.
Who it's for
Suitable for adults and those aged 16+ who have night-time cold or flu symptoms such as fever, headache, aches and pains, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, and a dry, tickly cough.
When should this medicine not be used?
Do not use Night Nurse Liquid if you:
- Are under 16 years of age
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have heart, liver or kidney problems
- Are taking other medicines that contain paracetamol or cough suppressants
- Have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) antidepressant in the last 14 days
- Have glaucoma, asthma, or prostate enlargement
- Are taking sedatives or tranquillisers
- Are allergic to paracetamol, promethazine, or dextromethorphan
Drowsiness and driving
Night Nurse can cause drowsiness, and this effect may last into the next morning. Do not drive, cycle or operate machinery after taking Night Nurse or if you still feel drowsy. Avoid alcohol, as it can increase sleepiness and reduce alertness.
Warnings & precautions
Contains paracetamol—do not exceed the stated dose. Avoid alcohol. Speak to your pharmacist or doctor before use if you have liver or kidney problems, glaucoma, epilepsy, chronic breathing problems, urinary retention or prostate enlargement, or if you are taking other medicines. If symptoms persist, worsen, or you develop a high fever or rash, seek medical advice.
Common interactions
Can interact with MAOIs (current or in the last 14 days), other sedating medicines (e.g. benzodiazepines), some antidepressants, other cough and cold remedies, and any products containing paracetamol. Always check with a pharmacist before combining treatments.
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless advised by a healthcare professional. If you need pain or fever relief while breastfeeding, paracetamol on its own is usually preferred—ask your pharmacist for advice.
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
