Alka-Seltzer XS – 20 Effervescent Tablets

Description

Alka-Seltzer XS – 20 Effervescent Tablets

Alka-Seltzer XS Effervescent Tablets are a combination pain relief medicine used to treat headaches, migraines, toothache, period pain, and muscular aches. The effervescent format dissolves quickly in water, making it easy to swallow and helping the medicine to be absorbed rapidly.

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How It Works

Alka-Seltzer XS contains three active ingredients that work together to relieve pain. Aspirin and paracetamol both reduce pain signals and lower fever through different pathways, while caffeine is included because it has been shown to enhance the pain-relieving effects of both aspirin and paracetamol, helping you feel relief faster.

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Directions for Use

Adults and young people aged 16 and over: dissolve 2 tablets in a glass of water (at least 200 ml) and drink the solution. This dose may be repeated every 4 hours if needed. Do not take more than 8 tablets (4 doses) in any 24-hour period. Alka-Seltzer XS is not suitable for children under 16 years of age. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.

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Active Ingredients

Per 2-tablet dose (the recommended single dose):
• Aspirin 967 mg
• Paracetamol 300 mg
• Caffeine 60 mg

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Possible Side Effects

• Stomach upset, nausea, or indigestion
• Heartburn or stomach pain
• Increased risk of bleeding (due to aspirin)
• Allergic reactions such as skin rash or itching
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) — may indicate too high a dose
• Headache if caffeine intake is high overall
If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.

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Who Should Not Take This Medicine

• Children and young people under 16 years of age
• Anyone with a known allergy to aspirin, paracetamol, caffeine, or any other ingredient
• People with an active stomach ulcer or history of peptic ulcer disease
• Those with severe liver or kidney problems
• People with haemophilia or other bleeding disorders
• Anyone already taking other medicines containing paracetamol or aspirin
• Those with asthma triggered by aspirin or other NSAIDs

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Interactions

Alka-Seltzer XS may interact with blood-thinning medicines (such as warfarin), other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen), methotrexate, certain antidepressants, medicines for gout, and other products containing paracetamol or aspirin. Taking additional caffeine-containing products (such as energy drinks or strong coffee) alongside this medicine may increase the risk of caffeine-related side effects. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Alka-Seltzer XS is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester, as aspirin can affect the unborn baby and may complicate labour. Aspirin passes into breast milk and is generally not recommended during breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

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Alcohol

You should avoid drinking alcohol whilst taking Alka-Seltzer XS. Combining aspirin with alcohol significantly increases the risk of stomach bleeding and irritation. If you regularly drink alcohol, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist before using this medicine.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Alka-Seltzer XS does not normally cause drowsiness and is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you feel unwell or experience any unusual symptoms after taking this medicine, do not drive or use machinery until you feel better.

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Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the tablets in the original packaging to protect them from humidity, as effervescent tablets are particularly sensitive to moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

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Important Information

• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.

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Patient Information Leaflet

For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.

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This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: February 2026.

Brand	Alka-Seltzer