Alkem Cold 5 mg/500 mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Severe abdominal pain
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe headache with visual changes
- Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output
- Severe drowsiness or confusion
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is acolate m tablet used for?
This medicine is a combination of Cetirizine 5 mg and Paracetamol 500 mg used for symptomatic relief of common cold, allergic rhinitis, and mild fever. It works by blocking histamine and reducing fever and pain. It should be taken as prescribed by a doctor and is not recommended for long-term use without medical supervision.
- Generic Name: Cetirizine + Paracetamol
- Manufacturer: Gujarat Terce Laboratories Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 acolate m tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा सेटिरिज़िन 5 मिलीग्राम और पैरासिटामोल 500 मिलीग्राम का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग सर्दी-जुकाम, एलर्जी, छींक, नाक बहना, आंखों में पानी आना, खुजली और हल्के बुखार व दर्द के लक्षणों से राहत के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा एलर्जी के कारण होने वाले लक्षणों को कम करने में मदद करती है और शरीर के तापमान को नियंत्रित करती है। इसका सेवन डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, थकान और हल्का पेट दर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन यदि आपको चकत्ते, सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या पीलिया जैसे लक्षण दिखें तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें। शराब के साथ इस दवा का सेवन न करें, क्योंकि इससे लीवर को नुकसान हो सकता है।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपनी मर्जी से दवा की मात्रा न बढ़ाएं। इस दवा को लेने के बाद नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आपको लीवर या किडनी की बीमारी है, या आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। 7 दिनों से अधिक इस दवा का उपयोग बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न करें।
💊 acolate m tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and mild fever associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Reduces nasal congestion, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes caused by seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Helps relieve itching and skin rash associated with allergic urticaria.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Mild fever and body ache","description":"Paracetamol component reduces fever and relieves mild to moderate pain such as headache and body ache.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Mild anxiety","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its sedative effects, but not recommended as a primary treatment.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Common cold and allergic rhinitis
Also treats: Urticaria, Allergic conjunctivitis, Mild fever, Body ache
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Cetirizine + Paracetamol |
| Brand Name | Alerid Cold Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Gujarat Terce Laboratories Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | Antihistamine + Analgesic/Antipyretic |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep in the original container. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary mechanisms. Cetirizine is a selective histamine H1-receptor antagonist that blocks histamine released from mast cells, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Paracetamol acts primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which helps reduce fever and relieve pain. The combination provides symptomatic relief from cold and allergic symptoms.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take acolate m tablet
Strength: Each tablet contains Cetirizine 5 mg and Paracetamol 500 mg.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose is one tablet taken orally every 8 to 12 hours, not exceeding 3 tablets in 24 hours. However, the exact dose and frequency must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to treatment. Do not self-medicate or exceed the recommended dose. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sedative effects of cetirizine and may require a lower dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with renal impairment, dose reduction may be necessary. Cetirizine is primarily excreted by the kidneys. Consult a doctor for appropriate dose adjustment. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with hepatic impairment, paracetamol metabolism may be altered, increasing the risk of liver toxicity. Dose reduction or avoidance may be necessary. Consult a doctor. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose should not exceed 3 tablets in 24 hours, providing a total of 15 mg cetirizine and 1500 mg paracetamol. Do not exceed this limit. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of acolate m tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Warfarin | Major | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Major | |
| Opioids | Major | |
| Anticholinergics | Moderate | |
| Ritonavir | Moderate | |
| Carbamazepine | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Cholestyramine | Minor | |
| Grapefruit juice | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Warfarin
- Alcohol
- CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine)
- Ritonavir
- Carbamazepine
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be strictly avoided while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage from paracetamol and enhances the sedative effects of cetirizine, leading to excessive drowsiness and impaired coordination.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to cetirizine, paracetamol, or any component of the formulation","Severe liver disease or active liver failure","Severe kidney impairment (creatinine clearance
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medicine.","Do not exceed the recommended dose of paracetamol; overdose can cause serious liver damage.","Consult a doctor before use if you have liver or kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.","Do not use for more than 7 days without medical advice.","Keep out of reach of children.","Inform your doctor if you are taking other medications, especially blood thinners or sedatives."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Cetirizine and paracetamol are excreted in breast milk. Limited data suggest that occasional use may be acceptable, but consult your doctor before taking this medicine while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe liver damage due to paracetamol. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and yellowing of skin or eyes. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment may include administration of N-acetylcysteine as an antidote, along with supportive care. Cetirizine overdose may cause severe drowsiness, agitation, or tachycardia; manage symptomatically.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of liver damage. Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, or if you are taking other medications, especially blood thinners, antidepressants, or sedatives. Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the sedative effects of cetirizine and may require a lower dose. They should also be monitored for liver and kidney function if using this medicine regularly.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of this combination during pregnancy is not well established.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Consult your doctor before taking this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with other medications or affect recovery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure, as it may cause drowsiness or interact with anesthetics.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel fatigued or drowsy. Light activities like walking are generally safe, but listen to your body and rest when needed.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It is advisable to take it when you can rest, such as at bedtime.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, if they worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects such as severe drowsiness, rash, or yellowing of the eyes or skin.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended without medical supervision. Prolonged use of paracetamol can increase the risk of liver damage, especially with alcohol. Cetirizine may cause tolerance or persistent drowsiness. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be required if used for extended periods.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps clear nasal passages and reduce congestion.
Evidence: Well-establishedCan temporarily relieve nasal congestion.
Evidence: LimitedAlternative for allergic rhinitis.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you have a fever, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccination.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust the dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medications in your destination country. Always keep it in your carry-on luggage.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Cetirizine starts working within 1 hour, and paracetamol within 30-60 minutes.
A: It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food reduces the risk of stomach upset.
A: Do not take with other paracetamol-containing products to avoid overdose. Consult your doctor before combining with other medicines.
A: Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for acolate m tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
alcoryl tabletAlice Healthcare Pvt Ltd ₹14.06 81% CHEAPER
-
mdzime forte tabletZenith Healthcare Ltd ₹14.87 79.9% CHEAPER
-
anncold 5mg/500mg/60mg tabletAccurate Pharmaceuticals ₹15.00 79.7% CHEAPER
-
nancold 5mg/500mg/50mg tabletAlpic Remedies Ltd ₹15.00 79.7% CHEAPER
-
sinact 5mg/500mg/60mg tabletPharmatech Healthcare ₹16.88 77.2% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can cure the common cold.
Fact: This medicine only provides symptomatic relief; it does not cure the viral infection. - Myth: It is safe to take this medicine with alcohol.
Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage and drowsiness; it should be avoided. - Myth: More tablets will relieve symptoms faster.
Fact: Exceeding the recommended dose can cause serious liver damage and other side effects.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Cetirizine 5 mg + Paracetamol 500 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Alkem Cold 5 mg/500 mg/5 mg tablet