cheston cold tablet - Cetirizine (5mg) + Paracetamol (325mg) medicine

Cheston Cold Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Cipla Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 24, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for symptomatic relief of common cold and allergic rhinitis.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 24, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe allergic reaction (swelling of face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing)
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Difficulty urinating

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is cheston cold tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of cetirizine (antihistamine) and paracetamol (analgesic/antipyretic) used for short-term relief of common cold symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and mild fever.

  • Generic Name: Cetirizine + Paracetamol
  • Manufacturer: Cipla Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 cheston cold tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा सर्दी-जुकाम, नाक बहना, छींक आना, आंखों में पानी आना और हल्के बुखार व शरीर दर्द में राहत के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह सेटिरिज़िन और पैरासिटामोल का संयोजन है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, थकान और हल्का पेट दर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई या पीलिया हो सकता है।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। शराब न पिएं। नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन न चलाएं। यकृत या गुर्दे की बीमारी हो तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। 7 दिन से अधिक न लें।

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

💊 cheston cold tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides relief from runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and mild fever associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Helps reduce sneezing, nasal itching, and runny nose due to allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Mild fever and body ache","description":"Paracetamol component reduces fever and relieves mild pain.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Cetirizine may be used off-label for chronic urticaria, but combination with paracetamol is not standard.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Common cold

Also treats: Allergic rhinitis, Mild fever, Body ache

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cetirizine + Paracetamol
Brand NameAlerid Cold Tablet
ManufacturerCipla Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassAntihistamine + Analgesic/Antipyretic
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Shelf Life24 months from 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 only for short-term relief of cold symptoms.
2
Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel drowsy.
3
Do not take this medicine with alcohol.
4
Do not exceed the recommended dose of 4 tablets in 24 hours.
5
Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.
6
Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

Runny nose
This medicine is commonly used for this symptom.
Likely Use
Sneezing
This medicine helps reduce sneezing.
Likely Use
High fever
This medicine is not for high fever; consult a doctor.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionCetirizine is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached in about 1 hour. Paracetamol is also rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak levels within 30-60 minutes.
DistributionCetirizine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. Paracetamol distributes rapidly into most body tissues.
Protein BindingCetirizine is about 93% bound to plasma proteins. Paracetamol is minimally bound to plasma proteins (about 10-25%).
MetabolismCetirizine undergoes minimal hepatic metabolism. Paracetamol is metabolized primarily in the liver via glucuronidation and sulfation, with a small fraction via CYP2E1 to a toxic metabolite, N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI).
Half-LifeCetirizine half-life is approximately 8-10 hours in adults. Paracetamol half-life is about 2-3 hours.
ExcretionCetirizine is excreted primarily unchanged in the urine. Paracetamol metabolites are excreted in urine.
BioavailabilityCetirizine oral bioavailability is high, approximately 70% or more. Paracetamol oral bioavailability is about 80-100%.
Onset of ActionCetirizine onset of action is within 1 hour. Paracetamol onset of action is within 30-60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeCetirizine peak plasma time is about 1 hour. Paracetamol peak plasma time is about 0.5-1 hour.
Duration of ActionCetirizine duration of action is about 24 hours. Paracetamol duration of action is about 4-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with distinct mechanisms. Cetirizine is a selective histamine H1-receptor antagonist that inhibits the effects of histamine, reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. Paracetamol acts primarily in the central nervous system to reduce fever and pain, though its exact mechanism is not fully understood; it may inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the brain.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Cetirizine binds to H1 receptors on effector cells, preventing histamine from triggering allergic responses.
2
Reduction of allergic symptoms: This leads to decreased sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
3
Central analgesic and antipyretic action: Paracetamol acts on the hypothalamus to reduce fever and elevates pain threshold.

💡 How to Take cheston cold tablet

Strength: Tablet containing Cetirizine 5 mg and Paracetamol 325 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2Can be taken with or without food.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
4Follow the prescribed dose and duration.
5Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is one tablet orally every 6 to 8 hours as needed for symptoms, not to exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects such as drowsiness and dry mouth. Use with caution and adjust dose as needed.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, cetirizine dose may need to be reduced. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with hepatic impairment, paracetamol dose should be limited. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseMaximum daily dose is 4 tablets in 24 hours. Do not exceed.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Can be taken with or without food
Food does not significantly affect absorption.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases drowsiness and risk of liver damage.

⏰ 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 cheston cold tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. Usually resolves with continued use.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if persistent.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Rest if needed. Consult doctor if severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
Liver damage (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical help if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Palpitations
Consult a doctor if you experience irregular heartbeat.
Urinary retention
Consult a doctor if you have difficulty urinating.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Alcohol Major
Benzodiazepines Moderate
Opioids Moderate
Anticholinergics Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Alcohol

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)
  • Anticholinergic drugs

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase drowsiness caused by cetirizine and increase the risk of liver damage from paracetamol.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to cetirizine, paracetamol, or any component","Severe liver impairment","Severe kidney impairment"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Avoid alcohol.","Do not exceed recommended dose.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Cetirizine and paracetamol are excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Consult a doctor before use during breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe liver damage from paracetamol and increased drowsiness from cetirizine. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment includes activated charcoal if within 1-2 hours, and N-acetylcysteine for paracetamol toxicity.

⏰ 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 dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of liver damage. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel drowsy. Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine for longer than 7 days without medical advice. 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 drowsiness and dry mouth. Use with caution and monitor for confusion or urinary retention.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult a doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of this combination in pregnancy is not well established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your surgeon 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, as it may cause dry mouth and increase the risk of dental issues.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
🥗
Get adequate rest to help your body recover.
😴
Avoid exposure to allergens like dust and pollen.
💧
Use a humidifier to ease nasal congestion.
🧘
Wash hands frequently to prevent spreading infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel drowsy or fatigued. Light activity is fine if you feel up to it.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include warm soups and broths.
Avoid cold drinks and ice cream.
Eat light, easily digestible meals.
Include vitamin C rich fruits like oranges.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness, affecting your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid such activities until you know how it affects you. It is advisable to rest at home if symptoms are severe.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine if symptoms improve or after 7 days, whichever is earlier. Consult a doctor before stopping if you have been taking it for a longer duration or have underlying health conditions.

📅 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 needed if used for extended periods.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps relieve nasal congestion naturally.

Evidence: Well-established
Saline nasal spray

Moisturizes nasal passages and reduces congestion.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you have a fever, consult a doctor before 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

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing intervals as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medications.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 30-year-old office worker with common cold
Started this medicine as prescribed for runny nose and sneezing. Noticed relief within 1 hour. Felt drowsy, so avoided driving. Took only for 3 days as symptoms improved.
💡 Lesson: This medicine provides quick relief but may cause drowsiness; avoid driving.
👤 A 45-year-old with allergic rhinitis
Used this medicine for sneezing and nasal itching. Symptoms improved significantly. Was advised not to exceed 4 tablets per day and to avoid alcohol.
💡 Lesson: Follow dosage limits and avoid alcohol to prevent liver damage.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Cetirizine starts working within 1 hour, and paracetamol within 30-60 minutes.

Q: Can I take it with other cold medicines?

A: Consult a doctor before combining with other medicines to avoid overdose of paracetamol.

🤔 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?

🔄 Substitutes for cheston cold 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 the common cold.
    Fact: It only relieves symptoms; it does not cure the viral infection.
  • Myth: It is safe to take with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases drowsiness and risk of liver damage.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cetirizine + Paracetamol combination tablets

Brand Alternatives

  • Cheston Cold Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Cetirizine + Paracetamol","difference":"This medicine"},{"medicine":"Levocetirizine + Paracetamol","difference":"Levocetirizine is a more selective antihistamine, often less sedating."}]

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