cold off tablet - Caffeine (15mg) + Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) medicine

Azirest Tablet: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Stadmed Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
12 min read
Evidence: Well-established for allergic rhinitis and common cold.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 22, 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
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Confusion or hallucinations

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is cold off tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of caffeine and chlorpheniramine maleate used to treat allergic rhinitis and common cold symptoms. It works by blocking histamine and providing mild stimulation to counteract drowsiness.

  • Generic Name: Caffeine + Chlorpheniramine Maleate
  • Manufacturer: Stadmed Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

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

उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी राइनाइटिस, सर्दी-जुकाम और अन्य एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे छींक, नाक बहना, आंखों में खुजली और पानी आना में राहत देती है। इसमें कैफीन और क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट होता है, जो एलर्जी को कम करने और नींद को कम करने में मदद करता है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, चक्कर आना, धुंधली दृष्टि, मतली और बेचैनी शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, अनियमित दिल की धड़कन, भ्रम या पेशाब में रुकावट हो सकती है।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें क्योंकि इससे नींद आ सकती है। शराब का सेवन न करें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 cold off 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":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Helps reduce itching and hives associated with allergic skin reactions.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"Reduces itching, redness, and tearing of the eyes due to allergies.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia due to allergies","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its sedative effects to help with sleep in patients with allergic symptoms, but this is not a recommended use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Chlorpheniramine may help with motion sickness due to its anticholinergic properties, but combination with caffeine may not be ideal.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Common cold, Urticaria, Allergic conjunctivitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Caffeine + Chlorpheniramine Maleate
Brand NameAlmolet Tablet
ManufacturerStadmed Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassAntihistamine + CNS Stimulant
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 the original container.
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 to reduce stomach upset.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
3
Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine as it increases drowsiness.
4
Limit caffeine intake from other sources to avoid jitteriness and insomnia.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.
6
Do not exceed the recommended dose; taking more can increase side effects.
7
Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, urinary retention, or liver disease before taking this medicine.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Sneezing
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Runny nose
This medicine helps reduce runny nose.
Likely Use
✅
Itchy, watery eyes
This medicine helps relieve eye allergy symptoms.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Body ache
This medicine is not indicated for body ache.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionChlorpheniramine maleate is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Caffeine is also rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The presence of food may slightly delay the absorption of both components.
DistributionChlorpheniramine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. Caffeine is also distributed widely, crossing the blood-brain barrier and placenta. Both compounds have moderate volumes of distribution.
Protein BindingChlorpheniramine is approximately 70% bound to plasma proteins. Caffeine is about 10-35% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismChlorpheniramine is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. Caffeine is metabolized in the liver by CYP1A2 to paraxanthine, theobromine, and theophylline.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of chlorpheniramine is approximately 12-43 hours, with an average of about 24 hours. The elimination half-life of caffeine is approximately 3-7 hours in healthy adults.
ExcretionChlorpheniramine and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Caffeine and its metabolites are also excreted in the urine, with only a small fraction excreted unchanged.
BioavailabilityChlorpheniramine maleate has a bioavailability of approximately 25-50% due to first-pass metabolism. Caffeine has a bioavailability of nearly 100% after oral administration.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for chlorpheniramine is typically within 30-60 minutes after oral administration. Caffeine's effects begin within 15-30 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of chlorpheniramine are reached in about 2-6 hours. Caffeine reaches peak plasma levels in about 30-60 minutes.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action for chlorpheniramine is approximately 4-6 hours, but its sedative effects may last longer. Caffeine's effects last for about 3-5 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients. Chlorpheniramine maleate is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors, thereby preventing histamine-mediated allergic responses such as vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that acts as an adenosine receptor antagonist, which increases alertness and can counteract the sedative effects of chlorpheniramine.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Chlorpheniramine binds to histamine H1 receptors on effector cells, preventing histamine from binding and triggering allergic responses.
2
Reduction of allergic symptoms: By blocking H1 receptors, chlorpheniramine reduces vasodilation, capillary permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation, alleviating sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
3
Adenosine receptor antagonism: Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, which increases neuronal firing and the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, leading to increased alertness.
4
Counteraction of sedation: The stimulant effect of caffeine helps offset the drowsiness caused by chlorpheniramine, allowing better daytime functioning.

💡 How to Take cold off tablet

Strength: Each immediate-release tablet contains caffeine 15 mg and chlorpheniramine maleate 2 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
4Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
5Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is one tablet taken 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, and response to therapy. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of chlorpheniramine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and anticholinergic effects. Use with caution and consider a lower dose. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
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. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose for adults is 6 tablets in 24 hours. Do not exceed this dose.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
Caffeine-containing foods
Limit
May increase stimulant effects.

⏰ 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 cold off tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If drowsiness persists or interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-15%))
Sip water, chew sugar-free gum, or use saliva substitutes. Consult doctor if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions. Avoid driving if dizzy.
Nervousness or restlessness (Common (5-10%))
Reduce caffeine intake from other sources. Consult doctor if persistent.
Nausea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness.
Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, chest pain, or fainting.
Hallucinations or confusion (Rare (<0.1%))
Discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.
Urinary retention (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you are unable to urinate.
Seizures (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias (e.g., agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia)
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor immediately.
Hepatotoxicity
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Alcohol Major
Tricyclic antidepressants Major
CYP2D6 inhibitors Moderate
CYP1A2 inhibitors Moderate
Anticholinergics Moderate
Opioids Minor
Antihypertensives Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Alcohol and other CNS depressants
  • Tricyclic antidepressants

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)
  • CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine)
  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., benztropine, oxybutynin)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impairment of motor skills. The combination can also increase the risk of respiratory depression and other serious adverse effects.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to chlorpheniramine, caffeine, or any component of the formulation","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention","Severe liver disease","Concurrent use with MAOIs","Children under 12 years of age (unless directed by a doctor)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in patients with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions.","Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or arrhythmias.","Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or seizure disorders.","Do not use for longer than directed without consulting a doctor.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Chlorpheniramine and caffeine are excreted in breast milk. Chlorpheniramine may cause drowsiness in the nursing infant. Caffeine may cause irritability and poor sleep. Use with caution and consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, confusion, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Monitor vital signs and provide supportive care.

⏰ 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 or other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine, as they can increase drowsiness. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine for longer than directed without consulting your doctor. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the anticholinergic and sedative effects of chlorpheniramine. Use with caution and consider a lower dose. Monitor for confusion, urinary retention, and falls.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may interact with anesthetics and other medications used during surgery. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may need to be stopped before surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine may cause dry mouth, which can increase the risk of dental problems. Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may also interact with sedatives used in dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce allergy symptoms.
🥗
Regular low-impact exercise like walking or swimming.
😴
Practice good hygiene to reduce exposure to allergens.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to support immune function.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness, which can affect your ability to exercise safely. Avoid strenuous exercise until you know how the medicine affects you. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods
Reduce processed food intake
Stay well hydrated
Limit caffeine intake from other sources

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can impact your ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring alertness. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your work involves operating heavy machinery.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been taking it regularly. If you experience severe side effects, seek medical advice immediately. Your doctor may recommend stopping or adjusting the dose based on your condition.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to tolerance to its stimulant effects and increased risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and urinary retention. It is not recommended for prolonged use without medical supervision. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be advised.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Allergen avoidance

Reducing exposure to allergens can help manage allergy symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established
Nasal saline irrigation

Can help relieve nasal congestion and rinse allergens from the nose.

Evidence: Moderate
Immunotherapy

Allergy shots or sublingual tablets can provide long-term relief for certain allergies.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with 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 with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, continue taking it as prescribed, but adjust timing gradually. Check local customs regulations regarding prescription medications before travel.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergies
She started taking this medicine as prescribed for her sneezing and runny nose. She noticed relief within an hour but felt drowsy initially. After a few days, the drowsiness decreased. She was advised to take it with food and avoid driving until she knew how it affected her.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food and avoiding driving until you know its effects can improve tolerability and safety.
👤 A 50-year-old man with common cold
He took this medicine for his cold symptoms and found that his runny nose and sneezing improved. However, he experienced dry mouth and mild restlessness. He was advised to reduce his coffee intake and to sip water frequently.
💡 Lesson: Limiting additional caffeine and staying hydrated can help manage side effects like dry mouth and restlessness.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30-60 minutes after oral administration.

Q: Can I take this medicine with other allergy medicines?

A: Consult your doctor before combining with other antihistamines to avoid additive effects.

Q: Is it safe to take during pregnancy?

A: Consult your doctor; use only if clearly needed.

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 cold off 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 and does not cure allergies.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases drowsiness and other side effects; it should be avoided.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for children under 12.
    Fact: Safety and effectiveness in children under 12 have not been established; consult a pediatrician.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Caffeine + Chlorpheniramine Maleate tablets

Brand Alternatives

  • Azirest Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Azirest Tablet","composition":"Caffeine 15mg + Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2mg","uses":"Allergic rhinitis, common cold","notes":"Combination provides allergy relief with reduced drowsiness."},{"medicine":"Chlorpheniramine Maleate 4mg Tablet","composition":"Chlorpheniramine Maleate 4mg","uses":"Allergic rhinitis, common cold","notes":"Higher antihistamine dose, more sedation."}]

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