frequently asked
questions:
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold
frequently
asked
questions:
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold
Fighting a cold, the flu, sinus pressure or allergies? Arming yourself with the right information is the first step to start treating your symptoms. Check out our FAQ to get answers on the most common Alka-Seltzer™ Cold questions.
Fighting a cold, the flu, sinus pressure or allergies? Arming yourself with the right information is the first step to start treating your symptoms. Check out our FAQ to get answers on the most common Alka-Seltzer™ Cold questions.
Where can you buy Alka-Seltzer™ Cold products?
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold formulas are available in most drugstores, grocery stores, mass merchandisers, club stores and online. You can also use our store locator to find a convenient location nearby.
Why can’t I find the Alka-Seltzer™ Cold Allergy tablets or Night Severe Cold, Cough & Flu hot-drink mix?
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold no longer offers these products. To find a comparable product, call 1-800-986-0369 Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. EST, to speak to a Consumer Relations Representative, or visit our product page.
Does Alka-Seltzer™ Cold contain phenylpropanolamine bitartrate (PPA)?
No. This ingredient was removed from Alka-Seltzer Cold™ formulations in 2000.
Which Alka-Seltzer™ Cold formulas contain aspirin?
The following effervescent formulas contain aspirin:
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold, Cold + Congestion Severe Day/Night Fast Dissolve Tablets, Citrus/Lemon Flavor
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold, Cold + Congestion Severe Night Fast Dissolve Tablets, Lemon Flavor
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold, Cold & Headache Maximum Strength Fast Dissolve Tablets, Orange Flavor
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold, Cold & Cough Maximum Strength Fast Dissolve Tablets, Citrus Flavor
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold, Cold & Headache Maximum Strength Fast Dissolve Tablets, Original Flavor
What is the purpose of the different ingredients in Alka-Seltzer™ Cold?
This chart provides an easy reference to active ingredients in Alka-Seltzer™ Cold products.
Drug | Purpose |
|---|---|
Acetaminophen | Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer |
Aspirin | Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer |
Chlorpheniramine Maleate | Antihistamine |
Doxylamine Succinate | Antihistamine |
Phenylephrine Bitartrate | Nasal Decongestant |
Phenylephrine Hydrochloride | Nasal Decongestant |
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide | Cough Suppressant |
Guaifenesin | Expectorant |
Do the Alka-Seltzer™ Cold effervescent tablets and liquid gels contain the same active ingredients?
No. Please be sure to read all labels carefully and follow directions as stated.
Can I use the Alka-Seltzer™ Cold, Cold Night Formula during the day?
Alka-Seltzer™ Cold, Cold Night Formula is recommended at bedtime as it contains an antihistamine that may make you drowsy. Please be sure to read all labels carefully and use as directed.
How many days can I use Alka-Seltzer™ Cold?
Discontinue use and consult a physician if pain, cough or nasal congestion gets worse or lasts longer than 7 days, or if fever gets worse or lasts longer than 3 days. Please be sure to read all labels carefully and follow directions as stated.
How much water should I use when taking the effervescent tablets?
It’s recommended to use 4 ounces of water to dissolve 2 tablets.
Can I dissolve Alka-Seltzer™ Cold effervescent tablets in something other than water?
They dissolve best in water. Other liquids may contain ingredients that delay or affect dissolution. For example, milk contains compounds such as protein and fat, so it takes longer to dissolve the tablets.
What temperature of water should I use to dissolve Alka-Seltzer™ Cold Effervescent tablets?
Room temperature works best since cold water slows the dissolution and warm water can make the product foam excessively. The surface of the tablet needs to be submerged completely in water for rapid dissolution.
What should I do if the tablets don’t fizz?
The tablets may have been exposed to moisture due to a slight imperfection or small hole in the foil or packaging and should not be used. Please use the Contact Us page to report product quality issues.
Can I use the Alka-Seltzer™ Cold formulas beyond the expiration date?
We recommend that you discard any expired Alka-Seltzer™ Cold product.
Can I use Alka-Seltzer™ Cold products if I’m pregnant or nursing?
As with any drug or dietary supplement, if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, ask your healthcare professional before using any Alka-Seltzer™ Cold product.
Where can I find the dosage directions on the Alka-Seltzer™ Cold Day/Night Formulas?
Liquid Gels
Lift the back carton label indicated by the in the top right corner to find the dosing directions. The blue Drug Facts box pertains to the Day formula, and the green Drug Facts box pertains to the Night formula. You can also view the directions online by visiting our product page.
Effervescent Tablets
The label on the back of the carton peels back, indicated by a yellow tab in the upper right corner. Once lifted, the remaining information and dosage directions are visible. The information within the orange background (on the left) pertains to our Day formula, while the information with the green background (on the right) pertains to the Night formula. View the directions online by visiting our product page.
Do not take these products at the same time. Please read all labels and use as directed.
Can I use Alka-Seltzer™ Cold with other medications?
Consult your health care provider before taking more than one medication, as interactions between drugs are always possible.
Is there a question we didn’t answer? Contact Us
Is there a question we didn’t answer?
Contact us