What are Care Decongestant Tablets?

Care Decongestant Tablets are a decongestant treatment that can help to clear your blocked nose. If your nose is blocked because of a cold, flu, or hay fever, these tablets could help to clear your airways so you can breathe more easily. These tablets are non-drowsy and sugar free, perfect for those who don’t want cold and flu symptoms to put a stop to their day.

What is the cause of a blocked nose?

There are lots of reasons why you may have a blocked nose, it’s usually nothing to worry about and will go away on its own. When you have a blocked nose, the blood vessels in your nose are swollen, keeping you from breathing freely. Some of the most common causes of a blocked nose include:

• Cold
• Flu
• Hay Fever
• Allergies
• Sinusitis
• Catarrh

How will the pseudoephedrine in Care decongestant tablets treat my blocked nose?

Care decongestant tablets contain an active ingredient called pseudoephedrine hydrochloride. It works by reducing swelling in your nasal passages and reducing the amount of mucus you produce. This gives you more room to breathe easily, easing your congestion.

Can I take these tablets if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should not take Care decongestant tablets if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. If you’re suffering with a blocked nose at this time, ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend a more suitable treatment for you.

Can I take these tablets if I’m taking other medication?

If you’re taking any other medication you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking these decongestant tablets. Do not take these tablets if you are already taking:

• MAOIs, which are used for depression, or have taken them within the past 2 weeks
• Other nasal decongestants, e.g. sprays
• Beta-blockers

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you are taking:

• Medicines to reduce your appetite
• Medicines to stimulate your nervous system, e.g. amphetamines
• Medicines to lower your blood pressure
• Medicines for mental illness
• Antidepressants, including moclobemide
• Beta-blockers, which are used for heart conditions
• Cardiac glycosides, such as digoxin, digitoxin
• Rasagiline or Selegiline, which are used for Parkinson’s disease
• Ergotamine or methysergide, which are used to ease migraines
• Aproclonidine, which is used for glaucoma
• Quinidine, which is used for irregular heartbeat
• Kaolin or aluminium chloride, which are antacids
• Furazolidone, which is an antibiotic

How to take these tablets

Take one decongestant tablet four times a day. Do not take more than 4 tablets in a day.

Why do I have to answer questions before I can buy these tablets?

You do not need a prescription for Care decongestant tablets, however, you will be asked to complete a short medical questionnaire by your pharmacist before we can take your order. This includes some simple questions that all pharmacies legally are required to ask before supplying this kind of product. This helps our pharmacy team to be sure that this product is the best choice for you.

When should these tablets not be used?

Care decongestant tablets are not suitable for use in children under the age of 12. Do not take this product if you are allergic to pseudoephedrine or any of the other listed ingredients. Do not take these tablets if you have:

• Severe kidney problems
• Heart disease
• Circulation problems
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• An overactive thyroid gland
• Glaucoma
• Phaeochromocytoma

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you have:

• Bladder problems
• Prostate problems
• Mild kidney problems
• Severe liver disease
• An intolerance to some sugars, as this product contains lactose

Do Care Decongestant Tablets have any side effects?

Like all medications, decongestant tablets can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. If you experience any of the following side effects, stop use and seek immediate medical assistance:

• Allergic reactions, e.g. difficulty breathing, fever, swelling of the mouth, lips, skin, or throat, severe rashes, itching, stomach pain
• Potential symptoms of AGEP, such as a sudden onset of fever, reddening of the skin, many small pustules
• Inflammation of the colon due to insufficient blood supply

Other side effects you may experience include:

• Hallucinations
• Restlessness
• Sleep disturbances, being unable to sleep
• Feeling or being sick
• Headache
• Skin rash, lumps, red skin patches
• Feeling anxious, irritable, or excited
• Glaucoma
• Difficulty passing urine
• Abnormal or rapid heartbeat
• Palpitations
• High blood pressure
• Poor circulation, e.g. cold hands or feet
• Trembling
• Dry mouth
• Mental disorders, although these are rare

If you notice a side effect, then stop using and speak to a doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible. You can also record any side effect that you discover using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

How to store this product

Store in a cool, dry place. Do not use this product if the expiry date printed on the original packaging has passed. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

More Information

This product is a medicine; make sure to speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical problem or are taking any other medicine or complementary therapy. If your symptoms get worse or continue after taking this product, contact us or your doctor. For medical services in your area, please refer to https://www.nhs.uk

If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or our pharmacist before taking this product. If you suffer from any allergies, ask your doctor or our pharmacist if this medicine is right for you.

Store all medicines out of sight and reach of children.

Please read the included leaflet carefully before using this product.

Please contact your GP if appropriate regarding this product.

Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction

If you are concerned about addiction to 'over the counter' medication, we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice:

• NHS Help & Advice on Drug Addiction
• Talk To Frank - Drug Addiction Help & Support