Alerfri DS Suspension: 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
- Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe skin rash, blisters, or peeling skin
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, or blood in vomit or stool
- Inability to pass urine or severe lower abdominal pain
- High fever that does not improve within 3 days
- Confusion, severe dizziness, or fainting
- Seizures or irregular heartbeat
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is coldargic syrup used for?
This medicine is a combination of chlorpheniramine maleate and paracetamol used for short-term relief of cold and allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, mild fever, and body ache. It does not cure the underlying infection or allergy and should be used only as directed by a doctor.
- Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Paracetamol
- Manufacturer: Nodysis Pharma Pvt Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 coldargic syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट और पैरासिटामोल का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग सर्दी-जुकाम और एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना, आंखों में पानी आना, हल्का बुखार और शरीर दर्द से राहत के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा लक्षणों को कम करती है, बीमारी का इलाज नहीं करती। इसका उपयोग डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, चक्कर आना, धुंधली दृष्टि और पेट में हल्की परेशानी शामिल हैं। कभी-कभी जी मिचलाना, कब्ज या पेशाब करने में कठिनाई हो सकती है। गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, जैसे चेहरे पर सूजन या सांस लेने में कठिनाई, बहुत कम होती है लेकिन तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलना चाहिए।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर द्वारा बताई गई मात्रा और अवधि से अधिक न लें, क्योंकि इसमें मौजूद पैरासिटामोल अधिक मात्रा में लेने से लिवर को नुकसान पहुंचा सकता है। इस दवा के साथ शराब न पिएं। नींद आने के कारण वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। गर्भवती या स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों को डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना यह दवा न दें।
💊 coldargic syrup Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and nasal itching associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established for chlorpheniramine component"},{"condition":"Common cold with fever and body ache","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of runny nose, sneezing, mild fever, and generalized discomfort during viral upper respiratory infections.","evidence":"Common symptomatic use; evidence for combination is supportive but not curative"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"Helps reduce itching, redness, and tearing of the eyes caused by allergic reactions.","evidence":"Well-established for antihistamine component"},{"condition":"Urticaria (hives)","description":"May reduce itching and skin rash in mild acute urticaria, though paracetamol does not treat the rash itself.","evidence":"Limited for the combination; antihistamine component is effective"},{"condition":"Post-vaccination fever with allergic symptoms","description":"Occasionally used when mild fever and allergic symptoms coexist, but only under medical guidance.","evidence":"Limited; not a standard recommendation"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia due to allergy","description":"Sometimes used at night for its sedative effect in people with allergic symptoms disturbing sleep.","evidence":"Limited; not a primary indication"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Chlorpheniramine has weak antiemetic properties, but this combination is not a preferred treatment.","evidence":"Limited; other medicines are more effective"}]
Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis and common cold with fever
Also treats: Allergic conjunctivitis, Urticaria, Upper respiratory tract allergy, Viral rhinitis
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Paracetamol |
| Brand Name | Alex P Syrup |
| Manufacturer | Nodysis Pharma Pvt Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | Antihistamine + Analgesic/Antipyretic |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach of children. Use within the period recommended after opening, as stated on the label. |
| Shelf Life | Not established from the available information. Refer to the expiry date printed on the product packaging. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. The World Health Organization does not have a specific guideline for this fixed-dose combination. Symptomatic treatment of cold and allergy should follow national guidelines and clinical judgment. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. The Indian Council of Medical Research has not published a specific recommendation for this combination. Use should be guided by the prescribing clinician and standard treatment guidelines for cold and allergy. |
👨⚕️ 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 different mechanisms. Chlorpheniramine maleate is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors on blood vessels, nerve endings, and smooth muscle, reducing sneezing, nasal secretion, itching, and capillary leakage. It also crosses the blood-brain barrier and causes sedation by blocking central H1 receptors. Paracetamol acts mainly in the central nervous system by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which lowers fever and reduces pain perception. The combination does not treat infection or allergy cause; it only relieves symptoms.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take coldargic syrup
Strength: Oral suspension. The exact strength of chlorpheniramine maleate and paracetamol per 5 mL is not established from the available information. Refer to the product label for the specific strength.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The adult dose of this medicine is not fixed and must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, liver and kidney function, and severity of symptoms. In general, this combination is used for short-term relief of cold and allergy symptoms, often two to three times daily, but the exact dose and interval depend on the specific product strength and the prescriber's judgment. Do not exceed the recommended daily amount of paracetamol. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. Doses for children are based on age and weight, and this combination should only be given to a child if prescribed by a doctor. Never use adult doses in children. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of chlorpheniramine, which can increase the risk of confusion, falls, urinary retention, and constipation. The dose may need to be reduced or the medicine avoided in frail elderly patients. Paracetamol should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with kidney impairment, the elimination of chlorpheniramine and paracetamol may be prolonged. The dose may need to be reduced or the dosing interval extended. This medicine should be used with caution in moderate to severe renal impairment, and only under medical supervision. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal function. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with liver disease, the risk of paracetamol-related liver injury is increased. This medicine should be avoided in severe liver disease and used with caution in mild to moderate liver impairment. The dose may need to be reduced, and liver function should be monitored. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on hepatic function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum daily dose is not fixed for this combination and depends on the strength of the product and the clinical situation. The total daily paracetamol dose should not exceed the limit recommended for the specific product, and the total daily chlorpheniramine dose should not exceed the maximum safe adult dose. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. For educational reference only; individual dosing must be determined by a qualified clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of coldargic syrup
✅ 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 | |
| MAOIs | Major | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Other paracetamol products | Major | |
| Benzodiazepines | Moderate | |
| Opioids | Moderate | |
| Anticholinergics | Moderate | |
| Carbamazepine | Moderate | |
| Rifampicin | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Other paracetamol-containing products
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Alcohol
- Warfarin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Other sedatives, hypnotics, or anxiolytics
- Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., oxybutynin, benztropine)
- Opioid pain relievers
- Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be strictly avoided while taking this medicine. It increases the sedative effect of chlorpheniramine, which can impair judgment and coordination, and it raises the risk of paracetamol-induced liver damage, especially with regular or high-dose use. If you have consumed alcohol, do not take this medicine without consulting a healthcare professional.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity or allergy to chlorpheniramine maleate, paracetamol, or any other ingredient","Severe liver disease or active liver failure","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Symptomatic prostate enlargement or bladder neck obstruction","Urinary retention","Severe kidney disease without medical supervision","Children below the age recommended by a pediatrician for this combination","Use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors within the last 14 days"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine can cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other sedative medicines while taking this product.","Do not take more than the recommended dose because of the risk of paracetamol-related liver injury.","Do not use other paracetamol-containing products without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.","Use with caution in older adults because of increased risk of confusion, urinary retention, and falls.","Consult a doctor before use if you have glaucoma, prostate enlargement, asthma, or liver or kidney disease.","Stop the medicine and seek medical help if you develop a rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing.","Do not use for longer than the recommended duration without medical advice."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Chlorpheniramine passes into breast milk and may cause drowsiness or irritability in a breastfed infant. Paracetamol also passes into breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding. Because of the sedative effect of chlorpheniramine, this combination should be used during breastfeeding only if recommended by a doctor, and the infant should be monitored for excessive sleepiness.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine is a medical emergency because of the paracetamol component, which can cause severe and potentially fatal liver damage. Symptoms of paracetamol overdose may not appear for 24 hours or more and can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and sweating, followed by liver failure. If you suspect an overdose, go to the nearest emergency department immediately, even if you feel well. Do not wait for symptoms. Treatment with activated charcoal or acetylcysteine may be needed, and it is most effective when given early. Chlorpheniramine overdose can cause severe drowsiness, agitation, seizures, dry mouth, flushing, and irregular heartbeat, which also require emergency care. Bring the medicine bottle or packaging with you to the hospital.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is not almost time for the next dose. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration, because the paracetamol component can harm the liver if too much is taken. Avoid drinking alcohol while using this medicine, as it increases the risk of liver problems and worsens drowsiness. Do not use other products that contain paracetamol without checking with a healthcare professional. Because chlorpheniramine can make you sleepy, avoid driving, cycling, or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and store it as instructed on the label. If symptoms do not improve within a few days or worsen, contact your doctor.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of chlorpheniramine, which can cause confusion, falls, urinary retention, and constipation. The dose may need to be reduced, or a less sedating alternative may be preferred. Paracetamol should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration, and liver and kidney function should be considered. Consult a doctor before use.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. The safety of this fixed-dose combination in pregnancy is not well established. Your doctor may recommend a safer alternative for symptom relief. Do not self-medicate during pregnancy.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, the use of this medicine should be discussed with your surgeon or anesthesiologist. Chlorpheniramine can add to the sedative effects of anesthesia and pain medicines, and paracetamol may interact with other medicines you are given. Do not take this medicine after surgery unless specifically approved by your healthcare team.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. Chlorpheniramine can cause dry mouth, which may affect dental work, and it can add to the effects of sedatives used during dental procedures. Paracetamol may interact with other pain medicines. Your dentist may advise adjusting the dose or timing.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Because this medicine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that require balance and coordination until you know how it affects you. Light activity such as walking is usually fine if you feel well, but stop and rest if you feel dizzy or weak.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine can significantly affect your ability to work or drive because of drowsiness and reduced alertness. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or performing tasks that require full concentration until you know how the medicine affects you. If your job requires alertness, ask your doctor about taking the dose at night or using a less sedating alternative. Inform your employer or supervisor if your duties involve safety-sensitive tasks.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop taking this medicine and consult a doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 3 to 5 days, if they worsen, or if you develop new symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, rash, or difficulty breathing. Do not stop any prescribed medicine without talking to your doctor first. If you experience serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended without medical supervision. Prolonged use of chlorpheniramine can lead to tolerance, persistent drowsiness, constipation, and urinary problems, especially in older adults. Long-term or high-dose paracetamol can increase the risk of liver and kidney damage. If you need symptom relief for more than a few days, consult a doctor to identify and treat the underlying cause rather than continuing this medicine.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Rinsing the nasal passages with saline solution can help relieve nasal congestion and runny nose without medication.
Evidence: Well-established for symptom reliefInhaling steam can temporarily ease nasal congestion and soothe irritated airways.
Evidence: Commonly used; limited clinical evidenceIdentifying and avoiding triggers such as dust, pollen, or pet dander can reduce allergy symptoms.
Evidence: Well-establishedMedicines like cetirizine or loratadine cause less drowsiness and may be preferred for daytime use.
Evidence: Well-establishedSupportive care helps the body recover from viral colds and reduces the need for symptom-relief medicines.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you have a fever, your doctor may advise postponing vaccination until you recover. Follow your vaccination schedule as recommended by your healthcare provider.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place
❌ DON'T
Do not freeze or refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep the bottle tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not leave the cap loose or open
✅ DO
Protect from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store near heat sources
✅ DO
Keep out of the reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to another container
✅ DO
Use within the recommended period after opening
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription or a copy of the prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage if you need it during the journey, but ensure it is stored below 30°C and protected from direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, continue with your regular dosing schedule as advised by your doctor, but do not take extra doses to make up for time changes. Check the customs regulations of your destination country regarding liquid medicines and controlled substances. Always carry enough supply for your trip and a little extra in case of delays.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine usually starts to relieve symptoms within 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose. The full effect for fever and pain relief may be felt within 1 to 2 hours.
A: It should only be used for short-term relief, usually for a few days. If symptoms persist beyond 3 to 5 days or worsen, consult a doctor. Do not use it for longer than recommended without medical advice.
A: Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect because of the chlorpheniramine component. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
A: You should not take it with other medicines that contain paracetamol, as this can lead to an accidental overdose and liver injury. Always check labels and consult a pharmacist or doctor before combining medicines.
A: Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. This medicine should only be given to a child if prescribed by a doctor.
A: No, alcohol should be avoided. It increases drowsiness and the risk of liver damage from paracetamol.
A: Consult your doctor before use. The safety of this fixed-dose combination in pregnancy is not well established, and it should only be used if clearly needed and advised by a doctor.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for coldargic syrup
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
cleareze tabletSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ₹4.88 79.2% CHEAPER
-
zukamin tabletAlkem Laboratories Ltd ₹5.86 75% CHEAPER
-
x cold plus syrupIntas Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹10.08 57% CHEAPER
-
amiross plus syrupWockhardt Ltd ₹16.41 30% CHEAPER
-
corima suspensionMakers Laboratories Ltd ₹18.00 23.2% 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 relieves symptoms. It does not kill viruses or shorten the duration of a cold. - Myth: More medicine means faster relief.
Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious liver damage from paracetamol and increased drowsiness from chlorpheniramine. - Myth: It is safe to take with any other cold medicine.
Fact: Many cold medicines also contain paracetamol. Combining them can lead to an accidental overdose and liver injury. - Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
Fact: It is not suitable for people with certain conditions such as glaucoma, prostate enlargement, or severe liver disease, and it should be used with caution in older adults and young children. - Myth: It is safe to drive after taking this medicine.
Fact: Chlorpheniramine commonly causes drowsiness and slows reaction time. Do not drive until you know how it affects you.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Chlorpheniramine maleate + Paracetamol suspension
Brand Alternatives
- Alerfri DS Suspension