citimed cold tablet - Cetirizine (2mg) + Paracetamol (125mg) medicine

Cold Go 2mg/125mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Zydus Cadila 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 28, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for individual components; combination evidence is supportive.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 28, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
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
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is citimed cold tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of Cetirizine (an antihistamine) and Paracetamol (a pain reliever and fever reducer) used to treat symptoms of the common cold such as runny nose, sneezing, and mild fever. It is taken orally as directed by a doctor.

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

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

उपयोग: यह दवा सर्दी-जुकाम के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना, आंखों से पानी आना और हल्के बुखार या शरीर दर्द में राहत के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। इसमें सेटिरिज़िन और पैरासिटामोल दो दवाएं होती हैं। सेटिरिज़िन एलर्जी के लक्षणों को कम करता है और पैरासिटामोल बुखार और दर्द को कम करता है। यह दवा डॉक्टर की सलाह पर ही लेनी चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, थकान और हल्का पेट दर्द शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, त्वचा पर चकत्ते, सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई या लीवर की समस्या हो सकती है। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपनी मर्जी से डोज न बढ़ाएं। इस दवा से नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें। अगर आपको लीवर या किडनी की बीमारी है, गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 citimed cold tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Relieves symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and mild fever associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Helps reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itching of the nose or throat due to allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Mild fever and body ache","description":"Paracetamol component reduces fever and relieves mild to moderate pain.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: []

Primary treatment for: Common cold

Also treats: Allergic rhinitis, Mild fever, Body ache

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cetirizine + Paracetamol
Brand NameAlerid Cold Tablet
ManufacturerZydus Cadila
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassAntihistamine + Analgesic/Antipyretic
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep in original container.
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 with food or milk to reduce stomach discomfort.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
3
Do not take more than the recommended dose; excess paracetamol can harm your liver.
4
Stay well hydrated throughout the day to help thin mucus and relieve congestion.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.
6
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to prevent liver damage and increased drowsiness.
7
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

🔍 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 reduce sneezing due to allergies or cold.
Likely Use
✅
Mild fever
Paracetamol component reduces fever.
Likely Use
❌
Severe headache
This medicine is not a primary treatment for severe headache.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionCetirizine is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1 hour. Paracetamol is also rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma levels occurring within 30 to 60 minutes.
DistributionCetirizine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. Paracetamol distributes rapidly into most body tissues, with a volume of distribution of approximately 0.9 L/kg.
Protein BindingCetirizine is approximately 93% bound to plasma proteins. Paracetamol is only weakly bound to plasma proteins (about 10-25%).
MetabolismCetirizine undergoes minimal hepatic metabolism; it is primarily excreted unchanged in urine. Paracetamol is extensively metabolized in the liver via glucuronidation and sulfation, with a small fraction metabolized by cytochrome P450 2E1 to a toxic intermediate, N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), which is detoxified by glutathione.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of cetirizine is approximately 8 to 10 hours in adults. Paracetamol has a half-life of about 2 to 3 hours.
ExcretionCetirizine is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine. Paracetamol is excreted in the urine as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates, with less than 5% excreted unchanged.
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 to 60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeCetirizine peak plasma time is about 1 hour. Paracetamol peak plasma time is 30 to 60 minutes.
Duration of ActionCetirizine duration of action is about 24 hours. Paracetamol duration of action is 4 to 6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients. Cetirizine is a selective histamine H1-receptor antagonist that inhibits the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. Paracetamol acts primarily in the central nervous system to produce analgesia and antipyresis, though its exact mechanism is not fully understood. It may inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the brain.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Cetirizine competitively binds to histamine H1 receptors on effector cells, preventing histamine from triggering allergic responses such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
2
Central analgesic and antipyretic action: Paracetamol acts on the central nervous system to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, thereby reducing fever and pain perception.

💡 How to Take citimed cold tablet

Strength: Tablet containing Cetirizine 2 mg and Paracetamol 125 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.
4Take at the same times each day if prescribed regularly.
5Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is 1 tablet orally every 6 to 8 hours as needed for symptoms, not to exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours. However, dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not self-medicate; follow your doctor's prescription.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of cetirizine, such as drowsiness and dizziness. Dose adjustment may be required based on renal function. Consult a doctor.
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 reduced or avoided. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseMaximum daily dose: 4 tablets in 24 hours. Do not exceed.

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.

⏰ 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 citimed 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 or persistent.
Mild stomach discomfort (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce discomfort.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Liver damage (paracetamol overdose) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Stop medicine and seek immediate medical attention if you develop rash, blisters, or peeling skin.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias (e.g., thrombocytopenia, leukopenia)
Report unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection to your doctor.
Hepatotoxicity
Avoid alcohol and other hepatotoxic drugs. Report symptoms of liver injury.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Alcohol Major
Benzodiazepines Moderate
Opioids Moderate
Isoniazid Major
Rifampin Major
Anticholinergics Moderate
Carbamazepine Moderate
Phenytoin Moderate
Probenecid Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Alcohol
  • Other hepatotoxic drugs (e.g., isoniazid, rifampin)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

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

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage from paracetamol and enhance 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

["Hypersensitivity to cetirizine, paracetamol, or any component of the formulation","Severe hepatic impairment","Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until effects are known.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Do not exceed recommended dose of paracetamol; risk of liver damage.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.","Consult doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

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

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of paracetamol can cause severe liver damage. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and yellowing of skin or eyes. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment may include activated charcoal, N-acetylcysteine, and supportive care. Cetirizine overdose may cause 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 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 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 the risk of liver damage and enhance drowsiness. 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 directed 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 the hepatotoxic effects of paracetamol. Dose adjustment may be needed based on renal and hepatic function. Consult a doctor before use.

🤰 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 has not been fully established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your doctor before taking this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with other medications or affect recovery. Paracetamol may be used for pain relief, but cetirizine may cause drowsiness and interfere with post-operative monitoring.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. Cetirizine may cause dry mouth, which can affect dental health. Paracetamol may interact with other pain medications used during dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Get plenty of rest to help your body recover from the cold.
🥗
Drink warm fluids like soup and herbal tea to soothe your throat and loosen mucus.
😴
Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and ease congestion.
💧
Avoid close contact with others to prevent spreading the infection.
🧘
Wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading germs.
🌞
Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support immunity.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medicine, especially if you feel drowsy or fatigued. Light activities like walking are fine if you feel up to it. Listen to your body and rest when needed.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, lemons, and bell peppers.
Stay well hydrated with water, soups, and herbal teas.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen dehydration and drowsiness.
Eat light, easily digestible meals if you have a reduced appetite.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It may also reduce your concentration, so take care when performing tasks that require alertness.

🛑 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 without medical supervision. Prolonged use of paracetamol can increase the risk of liver damage, especially with alcohol or other hepatotoxic drugs. 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.

Steam inhalation

Helps relieve nasal congestion and soothe irritated airways.

Evidence: Supportive
Saline nasal spray

Moisturizes nasal passages and helps clear mucus.

Evidence: Well-established
Rest and hydration

Essential for recovery from viral infections.

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 it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medications. Keep it in your carry-on luggage if flying.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergies and common cold symptoms
She started taking this medicine as prescribed for her runny nose and sneezing. Within an hour, her symptoms improved significantly. She experienced mild drowsiness, so she avoided driving. She took the medicine with food to prevent stomach upset.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food reduces stomach discomfort, and avoiding driving until you know the effects is important due to potential drowsiness.
👤 A 50-year-old man with mild fever and body ache due to cold
He took this medicine every 8 hours as directed. His fever subsided within 2 hours, and body ache reduced. He was advised not to exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours and to avoid alcohol. He recovered fully in 5 days.
💡 Lesson: Adhering to the recommended dose and frequency ensures safety and effectiveness. Do not exceed the maximum daily dose.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after oral intake.

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

A: It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach discomfort.

Q: Is it safe to take this medicine daily?

A: It is intended for short-term use. Consult your doctor if you need it for more than 7 days.

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

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

🤔 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 citimed 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: This medicine only relieves symptoms; it does not cure the underlying viral infection.
  • Myth: It is safe to take extra doses for faster relief.
    Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious liver damage from paracetamol.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe to take with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage and drowsiness; avoid combining.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cetirizine + Paracetamol combination generics

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Cetirizine 2 mg + Paracetamol 125 mg","uses":"Common cold, allergic rhinitis","notes":"May cause drowsiness"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine + Paracetamol + Phenylephrine","composition":"Cetirizine 5 mg + Paracetamol 325 mg + Phenylephrine 5 mg","uses":"Common cold with nasal congestion","notes":"Phenylephrine may increase blood pressure"}]

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