bestocold tablet - Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) + Paracetamol (325mg) medicine

Alerfri Tablet: Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

No reviews yet
🏭 BestoChem Formulations India Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for combination in allergic rhinitis; limited for common cold.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 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
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Seizures
  • Severe drowsiness or confusion

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is bestocold tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of Chlorpheniramine Maleate (an antihistamine) and Paracetamol (a pain reliever and fever reducer). It is used to treat symptoms of allergies and the common cold, such as runny nose, sneezing, itching, and mild fever. It works by blocking histamine and reducing pain and fever. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving. Take as directed by your doctor.

  • Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Paracetamol
  • Manufacturer: BestoChem Formulations India Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 bestocold tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट और पैरासिटामोल का संयोजन है। इसका उपयोग एलर्जी और सर्दी-जुकाम के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना, खुजली, और हल्के बुखार या शरीर दर्द से राहत पाने के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा एलर्जी के कारण होने वाले लक्षणों को कम करती है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुँह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि, जी मिचलाना और पेट खराब होना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, लीवर की समस्या, या रक्त विकार हो सकते हैं। यदि कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। शराब न पिएं क्योंकि इससे नींद और लीवर की समस्या बढ़ सकती है। गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें जब तक आपको पता न चल जाए कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों को डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना न दें।

💡 Did You Know? Over 80% of the antiretroviral drugs used globally to combat AIDS are supplied by Indian pharmaceutical companies.

💊 bestocold tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and nasal congestion associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Reduces itching and hives due to allergic reactions.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from runny nose, sneezing, and mild fever or body ache.","evidence":"Commonly used, though evidence for combination is limited"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"Helps reduce itching and redness of eyes due to allergies.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its sedative effects, but not recommended due to risk of tolerance and side effects.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Chlorpheniramine may help prevent motion sickness, but not a primary indication.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Urticaria, Common cold, Allergic conjunctivitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Paracetamol
Brand NameAlex P Syrup
ManufacturerBestoChem Formulations India Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassAntihistamine + Analgesic/Antipyretic
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in a dry place.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
2
Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking this medicine.
3
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
4
Do not exceed the recommended dose, especially of paracetamol, to avoid liver damage.
5
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
6
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.
7
Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, or enlarged prostate.
8
Do not take other paracetamol-containing products concurrently.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Runny nose
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Sneezing
This medicine helps relieve sneezing due to allergies.
Likely Use
✅
Itchy, watery eyes
This medicine can reduce allergic eye symptoms.
Likely Use
✅
Fever
Paracetamol component reduces fever.
Likely Use
✅
Body ache
Paracetamol provides pain relief.
Likely Use
❌
Cough
This medicine is not a cough suppressant.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionChlorpheniramine Maleate is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Paracetamol is also rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Food may delay the absorption of paracetamol slightly, but it does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionChlorpheniramine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system, due to its lipophilic nature. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, and is excreted in breast milk. Paracetamol is distributed widely in most body fluids, with a volume of distribution of about 0.9 L/kg. It also crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingChlorpheniramine is approximately 70% bound to plasma proteins. Paracetamol is only about 10-25% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismChlorpheniramine is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP2D6, to inactive metabolites. Paracetamol is metabolized in the liver via glucuronidation and sulfation to inactive metabolites. A small fraction is metabolized by CYP2E1 to a toxic intermediate, N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), which is normally detoxified by glutathione.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of chlorpheniramine is approximately 12-43 hours, with a mean of about 20 hours. The elimination half-life of paracetamol is about 2-3 hours in adults with normal liver function.
ExcretionChlorpheniramine and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Paracetamol metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine, with about 90% of the dose excreted within 24 hours.
BioavailabilityChlorpheniramine has a bioavailability of about 25-50% due to first-pass metabolism. Paracetamol has a high oral bioavailability of about 80-100%.
Onset of ActionChlorpheniramine begins to relieve allergic symptoms within 30-60 minutes after oral administration. Paracetamol starts to reduce fever and pain within 30-60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeChlorpheniramine reaches peak plasma concentrations in about 2-6 hours. Paracetamol reaches peak plasma concentrations in about 0.5-2 hours.
Duration of ActionChlorpheniramine's effects last about 4-6 hours, but drowsiness may persist longer. Paracetamol's analgesic and antipyretic effects last about 4-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients. Chlorpheniramine Maleate is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors on effector cells, thereby preventing histamine-mediated allergic responses such as vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation. It also possesses anticholinergic properties, which contribute to dry mouth, drowsiness, and other side effects. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) acts primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, likely through inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, particularly COX-2 in the brain. This results in reduction of fever and pain. The combination provides symptomatic relief of allergic and cold symptoms.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Chlorpheniramine binds to and blocks histamine H1 receptors on smooth muscle, endothelial cells, and nerve endings, preventing histamine from eliciting allergic responses.
2
Anticholinergic action: Chlorpheniramine also blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, leading to reduced secretions and side effects like dry mouth and blurred vision.
3
Central prostaglandin inhibition: Paracetamol inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, primarily by inhibiting COX enzymes, which reduces fever and pain perception.
4
Symptom relief: The combined effects lead to reduction in allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, and mild fever or body ache.

💡 How to Take bestocold tablet

Strength: Each tablet contains Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2 mg and Paracetamol 325 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a full glass of water.
2Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
3Take with food or milk if it upsets your stomach.
4Follow the dosage instructions exactly as prescribed.
5Do not take more than the recommended dose.
6If symptoms persist for more than 7 days, consult your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 1 tablet orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptoms, not to exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours. However, the dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Use for the shortest duration necessary.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, confusion, and anticholinergic effects. Use with caution and lower doses may be required. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Avoid in severe liver disease. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseFor adults: Maximum of 6 tablets in 24 hours. Do not exceed 4 grams of paracetamol per day from all sources.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of liver damage and drowsiness.
Caffeine
Limit
May increase nervousness and insomnia.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of bestocold tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water, chew sugarless gum, or use saliva substitutes. Consult doctor if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid alcohol.
Nausea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Blurred vision (Uncommon (1-5%))
Avoid activities requiring clear vision. Consult doctor if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing, or rash.
Liver damage (paracetamol overdose) (Rare with normal use; higher with overdose)
Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect overdose, even if you feel well. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and yellowing of skin or eyes.
Blood disorders (agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, sore throat, fever, or fatigue to your doctor immediately.
Seizures (Very rare)
Seek emergency medical care if seizures occur.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Palpitations
Consult a doctor if you experience fast or irregular heartbeat.
Urinary retention
Difficulty passing urine, especially in older men with enlarged prostate. Consult doctor.
Confusion
More common in elderly. Consult doctor if confusion occurs.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Alcohol Major
Warfarin Major
Anticholinergics Moderate
Carbamazepine Moderate
Phenytoin Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Cholestyramine Moderate
Antacids Minor
Oral contraceptives Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Alcohol and other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)
  • Warfarin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
  • Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin
  • Cholestyramine

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be strictly avoided while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage from paracetamol, especially with high doses or prolonged use. It also enhances the sedative effects of chlorpheniramine, leading to increased drowsiness, impaired coordination, and risk of accidents. Avoid alcohol completely during treatment.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to chlorpheniramine, paracetamol, or any component of the formulation","Newborns and premature infants","Nursing mothers","Severe liver disease or severe active liver disease","Severe kidney disease","Patients taking MAO inhibitors or within 14 days of stopping MAOI therapy","Glaucoma (narrow-angle)","Urinary retention or prostatic hypertrophy","Asthma or severe respiratory disease"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Do not exceed recommended dose of paracetamol; risk of severe liver damage.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of confusion, drowsiness, and anticholinergic effects.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.","May cause dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, or urinary retention.","Do not use for longer than 7 days without consulting a doctor.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.","Keep out of reach of children.","Do not use in children under 12 years without medical advice."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Chlorpheniramine is excreted in breast milk and may cause drowsiness in the infant. Paracetamol is also excreted in breast milk but is generally considered safe. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding. Monitoring infant for drowsiness is advised.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe liver damage from paracetamol and severe anticholinergic effects from chlorpheniramine. Symptoms of paracetamol overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and liver failure. Symptoms of chlorpheniramine overdose include drowsiness, confusion, seizures, and respiratory depression. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment includes activated charcoal, N-acetylcysteine for paracetamol toxicity, and supportive care. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

⏰ 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

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine, as they can increase drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, enlarged prostate, or breathing problems such as asthma or COPD. Do not use this medicine for longer than directed without consulting a doctor. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Do not take other products containing paracetamol while on this medicine to avoid overdose.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more susceptible to the anticholinergic and sedative effects of chlorpheniramine, such as confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. They may also be at higher risk of liver toxicity from paracetamol. Use with caution and lower doses may be necessary. Regular monitoring is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Both chlorpheniramine and paracetamol are generally considered safe in pregnancy when used as directed, but should be used only if clearly needed. Avoid unnecessary use during pregnancy.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It may interact with anesthetics or other medications. Paracetamol is often used for post-operative pain, but the combination with chlorpheniramine may not be appropriate due to sedative effects.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. The sedative effects may interact with anesthetics or other medications used during dental work. Your dentist may advise adjusting your dose or timing.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid known allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander.
🥗
Use air purifiers and keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
😴
Wash bedding frequently in hot water to reduce dust mites.
💧
Stay hydrated to help thin mucus and relieve congestion.
🧘
Get adequate rest to support your immune system.
🌞
Use a humidifier to ease dry air irritation.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness, which can affect your coordination. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. Light activities like walking are generally safe.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, lemons, and bell peppers.
Consume warm fluids like soups and herbal teas to soothe throat and congestion.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can worsen symptoms or interact with the medicine.
Eat a balanced diet to support immune function.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may impair your ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring mental alertness. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your job involves operating heavy machinery. Consider taking the medicine at bedtime to minimize daytime drowsiness.

🛑 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. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it regularly for a long time without consulting your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended. Prolonged use of chlorpheniramine may lead to tolerance and increased side effects. Chronic paracetamol use can increase the risk of liver and kidney damage, especially with alcohol. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be required if used for extended periods. Consult your doctor for alternative treatments if long-term therapy is needed.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Saline nasal irrigation

Helps clear nasal passages and reduce congestion without medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Allergen avoidance

Reducing exposure to allergens can decrease the need for medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Immunotherapy

Allergy shots or sublingual tablets can provide long-term relief for allergic rhinitis.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for vaccination, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.

📦 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 with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from light and moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing schedule accordingly, but do not exceed the maximum daily dose. Check customs regulations for carrying medications. Keep a list of your medications with you in case of emergency.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergic rhinitis
She started taking this medicine as prescribed for her sneezing and runny nose. Within an hour, her symptoms improved significantly. She experienced mild drowsiness, so she took it at bedtime. She was advised not to drive after taking it.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine at bedtime can help manage drowsiness while providing relief from allergy symptoms.
👤 A 50-year-old man with common cold and body ache
He took this medicine for his cold symptoms and fever. His fever reduced and body ache relieved within 2 hours. He was cautioned to avoid alcohol and not to exceed the dose due to paracetamol content.
💡 Lesson: This medicine effectively relieves cold symptoms but must be used cautiously to avoid paracetamol overdose.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30-60 minutes after taking it.

Q: Can I take this medicine on an empty stomach?

A: It is best taken with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double dose.

Q: Is it safe to take with other medications?

A: Consult your doctor before taking any other medications, as interactions may occur.

Q: Can I take this medicine for a long time?

A: It is intended for short-term use. Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is it safe during pregnancy?
  • Can I take it with other cold medicines?

🔄 Substitutes for bestocold tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure allergies permanently.
    Fact: This medicine only provides symptomatic relief; it does not cure allergies.
  • Myth: It is safe to take extra doses for faster relief.
    Fact: Taking extra doses can lead to serious side effects, especially liver damage from paracetamol.
  • Myth: It is safe to take with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage and drowsiness; avoid completely.
  • Myth: It can be used for children without doctor's advice.
    Fact: Pediatric dosing is not established; consult a pediatrician.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Paracetamol tablets (various manufacturers)

Brand Alternatives

  • Alerfri Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","active_ingredients":"Chlorpheniramine 2 mg + Paracetamol 325 mg","onset":"30-60 min","duration":"4-6 hours","sedation":"High","liver_risk":"Moderate"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine + Paracetamol","active_ingredients":"Cetirizine 5 mg + Paracetamol 325 mg","onset":"30-60 min","duration":"12-24 hours","sedation":"Low","liver_risk":"Moderate"},{"medicine":"Levocetirizine + Paracetamol","active_ingredients":"Levocetirizine 5 mg + Paracetamol 325 mg","onset":"30-60 min","duration":"12-24 hours","sedation":"Low","liver_risk":"Moderate"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory