Alka-Seltzer XS Effervescent Tablets 20s

Alka-Seltzer XS is a water-soluble effervescent tablet that combines aspirin, paracetamol and caffeine for pain relief together with antacids (sodium bicarbonate and citric acid) for stomach comfort, used by adults aged 16 and over for headaches and everyday pain, pack of 20, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Adults 16 and over with a headache or migraine who also want stomach comfort from the antacid base
• People with period pain, toothache, sore throat or muscular aches
• People who prefer a dissolvable drink to swallowing tablets

Not suitable for: children and teenagers under 16 (risk of Reye's syndrome, especially during or after flu or chickenpox); anyone allergic to aspirin, paracetamol or other NSAIDs; people with a stomach ulcer or bleeding problems. Do not take with other medicines containing aspirin, paracetamol or other NSAIDs. Speak to your pharmacist before use if you have stomach problems, are over 60, take blood thinners, or are pregnant or breastfeeding (avoid in late pregnancy).

How to use

1. Read the patient information leaflet on the pack before you start.
2. Adults and children 16 and over: dissolve 2 tablets in water and drink, every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
3. Do not take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours.
4. Do not take any other medicine containing aspirin, paracetamol or NSAIDs at the same time.
5. Do not use for more than 3 consecutive days without medical advice. If pain persists, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently asked questions

What does Alka-Seltzer XS contain?

Each tablet contains aspirin 267mg, paracetamol 133mg and caffeine 40mg for pain relief, plus antacids (sodium bicarbonate and citric acid) that help with stomach comfort as the tablet dissolves.

How long can I take Alka-Seltzer XS?

Use it for short-term relief only. Do not take it for more than 3 days in a row without speaking to a doctor, and never exceed 8 tablets in 24 hours.

Why is Alka-Seltzer XS not for under-16s?

Because it contains aspirin, it should not be given to children or teenagers under 16. Aspirin is linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition, particularly during or after flu or chickenpox.

Can I take it with other painkillers?

No. It already contains aspirin and paracetamol, so do not take it alongside other medicines containing aspirin, paracetamol or NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen), to avoid an accidental overdose.

Can I take Alka-Seltzer XS in pregnancy?

Avoid it in late pregnancy and while breastfeeding unless advised by a doctor. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, speak to your pharmacist or doctor before use.

Safety and storage

• Always read the patient information leaflet before use, as manufacturers update it regularly.
• Aspirin can cause stomach irritation and increase bleeding risk, especially in people over 60, with a history of ulcers, on blood thinners, or who drink alcohol.
• Do not take with any other aspirin-, paracetamol- or NSAID-containing medicine.
• The caffeine content means you should be mindful of other caffeine sources.
• Store as directed on the pack, keep out of the sight and reach of children, and do not use after the expiry date.

References

• NHS — Headaches
• Alka-Seltzer XS Patient Information Leaflet via emc

This page provides factual information about an over-the-counter pain-relief medicine that contains aspirin, paracetamol and caffeine. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. Do not exceed the stated dose or use for more than 3 days without medical advice. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.