FACTS & FAQ
Arming yourself with important and accurate information is the first key step in fighting
your tough cold, cough, flu, sinus and allergy symptoms with the right product.
Look below to find out all you need to know and more.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where can I buy Alka-Seltzer Plus® products?
Alka-Seltzer Plus® 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 Plus® Allergy tablets or Night Severe Cold, Cough & Flu hot-drink mix?
Alka-Seltzer Plus® 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 finder.
Does Alka-Seltzer Plus® contain phenylpropanolamine bitartrate (PPA)?
No. This ingredient was removed from Alka-Seltzer Plus® formulations in 2000.
Does Alka-Seltzer Plus® contain pseudoephedrine (PSE)?
Many of our products contain the nasal decongestant Phenylephrine Hydrochloride. Alka-Seltzer Plus-D® Sinus & Cold, which contained pseudoephedrine, is no longer available.
Which Alka-Seltzer Plus® formulas contain aspirin?
The following effervescent formulas contain aspirin:
- Alka-Seltzer Plus® Severe Cold PowerFast Fizz™ Day & Night Effervescent Tablets
- Alka-Seltzer Plus® Severe Cold PowerFast Fizz™ Non-Drowsy Effervescent Tablets
- Alka-Seltzer Plus® Severe Cold PowerFast Fizz™ Night Effervescent Tablets
- Alka-Seltzer Plus® Severe Cold PowerFast Fizz™ Orange Zest Effervescent Tablets
- Alka-Seltzer Plus® Severe Cold & Cough PowerFast Fizz™ Effervescent Tablets
Does Alka-Seltzer Plus® contain gluten?
We don't add gluten to our products. However, we can't guarantee they are 100% gluten free since our products are produced in a facility that manufactures and packages items that may contain gluten.
What is the purpose of the different ingredients in Alka-Seltzer Plus®?
This chart provides an easy reference to active ingredients in Alka-Seltzer Plus®.
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 Plus® Effervescent tablets and Liquid Gels contain the same ingredients?
Not necessarily. Please be sure to read all labels carefully and follow directions as stated.
Can I use the Alka-Seltzer Plus® Night Cold Formula during the day?
Alka-Seltzer Plus® Night Cold is recommended for bedtime as it may cause marked drowsiness.
How many days can I use Alka-Seltzer Plus®?
Discontinue use and consult a physician if pain, cough or nasal congestion gets worse or lasts longer than seven days, or if fever gets worse or lasts longer than three days.
How much water should I use when taking the effervescent tablets?
4 ounces of water to dissolve 2 tablets.
Can I dissolve Alka-Seltzer Plus® 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 Plus® 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 started to break down. It's likely that the foil package has a slight imperfection or hole. This may cause the tablets to discolor and crumble. While there is no safety concern, be aware that the product won't be as effective.
Can I use the Alka-Seltzer Plus® formulas beyond the expiration date?
We don't recommend using our products after they expire. They aren’t harmful if ingested, but they may not be as effective in relieving your symptoms. We recommend you discard expired Alka-Seltzer Plus® products.
Can I use Alka-Seltzer Plus® products if I'm pregnant or nursing?
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, contact your physician before using this product.
Where can I find the dosage directions on the Alka-Seltzer Plus® Day & Night Formulas?
Liquid Gels: On the lower edge of the back carton, there are two down arrows. The flap lifts up to provide the remaining information, including the dosage directions. The information with the orange background (on the left) pertains to our Day Cold Formula, while the information with the green background (on the right) pertains to the Night Cold 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 with the orange background (on the left) pertains to our Day Cold Formula, while the information with the green background (on the right) pertains to the Night Cold Formula. View the directions online by visiting our product page.
Can I use Alka-Seltzer Plus® with other medications?
Consult your health care provider before taking more than one medication, as interactions between drugs are always possible.
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