Combination cold and flu medicine (Painkiller + Decongestant + Antihistamine)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination medicine that contains three active ingredients — paracetamol (a painkiller and fever reducer), pseudoephedrine (a decongestant that opens up blocked nose), and diphenhydramine (an antihistamine that stops sneezing, runny nose, and also helps you sleep). Together they work to relieve cold and flu symptoms.
Inhibits COX enzymes to reduce prostaglandin-mediated pain and fever; blocks alpha-1 adrenergic receptors to cause vasoconstriction and nasal decongestion; antagonizes H1 histamine receptors to suppress allergic symptoms including rhinorrhea and sneezing.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
For adults, take the recommended dose (usually 20ml or 4 teaspoons of Benylin 4 Flu Syrup) every 4 to 6 hours as needed, but do not take more than 4 doses in 24 hours. You can take it with or without food. Because it can make you drowsy, it is best taken at bedtime or when you don't need to be alert.
Since this medicine is taken only when you have symptoms, there is no strict schedule. If you forget a dose, just take it when you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one — never double up to catch up.
Buy only from reputable pharmacies — check that the Benylin 4 Flu Syrup packaging is properly sealed and not expired, as fake medicines are common with roadside sellers. Do not drive or operate machines after taking this medicine because it causes serious drowsiness. Do not combine with other cold and flu medicines as you may accidentally overdose on paracetamol, which can silently damage your liver.
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it will make the drowsiness much worse and can damage your liver. Avoid taking it with other paracetamol-containing medicines (like Panadol, Tylenol, or other cold remedies) to prevent liver damage from overdose. Also avoid taking it with blood pressure medicines (like atenolol or methyldopa) as pseudoephedrine can raise your blood pressure.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Paracetamol; with your other drugs?
This combination is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding — consult your doctor before taking it, as some of the ingredients can affect your baby.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so don't leave it in your car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed and far out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.