coldgard-plus tablet - Levocetirizine (5mg) + Phenylephrine (5mg) medicine

Acolate Plus Tablet: Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Santo Formulations 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for allergic rhinitis and common cold.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 21, 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

  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Chest pain or palpitations
  • Blood in vomit or stool
  • Decreased urine output
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is coldgard-plus tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of levocetirizine (antihistamine) and phenylephrine (decongestant) used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis and common cold, such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. It is usually taken once or twice daily as prescribed.

  • Generic Name: Levocetirizine + Phenylephrine
  • Manufacturer: Santo Formulations
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 coldgard-plus tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा लेवोसेटिरिज़िन और फेनाइलएफ्रिन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग एलर्जी राइनाइटिस और सामान्य सर्दी के लक्षणों जैसे छींक, नाक बहना, नाक बंद होना और आंखों में खुजली को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा डॉक्टर के परामर्श से ही लेनी चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में हल्की नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, सिरदर्द और थकान शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को मतली, चक्कर आना या दिल की धड़कन तेज होना भी महसूस हो सकता है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन यदि आपको सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, या तेज धड़कन हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। निर्धारित मात्रा से अधिक न लें। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। इस दवा के साथ शराब न पिएं। यदि आपको उच्च रक्तचाप, हृदय रोग, मधुमेह, थायरॉइड या गुर्दे की बीमारी है, तो अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं। 7 दिनों से अधिक इस दवा का उपयोग बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न करें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 coldgard-plus tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose due to viral upper respiratory infections.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"Helps reduce itching, redness, and tearing of the eyes caused by allergies.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Sinusitis","description":"Sometimes used to relieve nasal congestion associated with sinusitis, though not a primary treatment.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Eustachian tube dysfunction","description":"May be used off-label to reduce congestion and improve ear pressure equalization.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Common cold, Allergic conjunctivitis, Sinusitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Levocetirizine + Phenylephrine
Brand NameAllercet Cold Tablet
ManufacturerSanto Formulations
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassAntihistamine + Decongestant
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. 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 the risk of stomach upset.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
3
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness.
4
If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, inform your doctor before taking this medicine.
5
Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
6
Keep a record of your symptoms to help your doctor assess the effectiveness of the treatment.

🔍 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
✅
Nasal congestion
Phenylephrine in this medicine relieves congestion.
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

AbsorptionLevocetirizine is rapidly absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached in about 1 hour. Phenylephrine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, but its oral bioavailability is low due to first-pass metabolism.
DistributionLevocetirizine distributes widely into body tissues, including the skin and nasal mucosa. Phenylephrine distribution is not well characterized but is expected to be limited due to its low oral bioavailability.
Protein BindingLevocetirizine is approximately 90% bound to plasma proteins. Phenylephrine protein binding is not established from the available information.
MetabolismLevocetirizine undergoes minimal metabolism, with about 14% metabolized in the liver. Phenylephrine is extensively metabolized in the gut wall and liver by monoamine oxidase and sulfotransferases.
Half-LifeLevocetirizine elimination half-life is approximately 8-9 hours in adults with normal renal function. Phenylephrine half-life is not established from the available information.
ExcretionLevocetirizine is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine. Phenylephrine and its metabolites are excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityLevocetirizine oral bioavailability is high, approximately 90%. Phenylephrine oral bioavailability is low and variable, estimated to be less than 40%.
Onset of ActionLevocetirizine begins to relieve allergic symptoms within 1 hour. Phenylephrine nasal decongestion may start within 15-30 minutes after oral administration.
Peak Plasma TimeLevocetirizine peak plasma concentration occurs at about 1 hour. Phenylephrine peak plasma time is not well established due to variable absorption.
Duration of ActionLevocetirizine provides relief for about 24 hours. Phenylephrine decongestant effect lasts approximately 4-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients. Levocetirizine selectively blocks histamine H1 receptors, reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. Phenylephrine stimulates alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on blood vessels in the nasal mucosa, causing vasoconstriction and reducing swelling and congestion.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Levocetirizine binds to H1 receptors on cells, preventing histamine from triggering allergic responses like sneezing and itching.
2
Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor stimulation: Phenylephrine activates alpha-1 receptors on nasal blood vessels, causing them to constrict and reduce swelling.
3
Reduced nasal congestion: Vasoconstriction decreases blood flow to the nasal mucosa, relieving stuffiness and improving airflow.
4
Symptom relief: The combined actions alleviate sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and nasal blockage.

💡 How to Take coldgard-plus tablet

Strength: Each tablet contains Levocetirizine 5 mg and Phenylephrine 5 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
3Take with or without food, but taking with food may reduce stomach upset.
4Follow the prescribed dose and duration exactly.
5Do not take more than the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is one tablet taken orally once or twice daily as prescribed by your doctor. The dose may be adjusted based on your condition and response. Do not exceed the recommended dose. 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 the effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness and cardiovascular effects. Use with caution and lower doses may be considered. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, dose adjustment is required. Levocetirizine dose should be reduced based on creatinine clearance. Consult your doctor for appropriate dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution in severe liver disease. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is one tablet twice daily. Do not exceed this dose without medical advice.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases drowsiness and impairs motor skills.
Caffeine
Limit
May increase stimulant effects and heart rate.

⏰ 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 coldgard-plus tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Usually resolves with continued use.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water frequently or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if persistent.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. If headache persists or is severe, consult your doctor.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Ensure adequate rest. If fatigue interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor.
Nausea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it continues, consult your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Palpitations or irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice a fast or irregular heartbeat.
Difficulty urinating (Rare (<0.1%))
Consult your doctor if you have trouble passing urine.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures
Seek emergency medical help if seizures occur.
Blood dyscrasias
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Tricyclic antidepressants Major
Beta-blockers Moderate
CNS depressants Moderate
Anticholinergics Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Beta-blockers
  • Central nervous system depressants

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol can increase drowsiness caused by levocetirizine and may worsen dizziness. It can also increase the risk of stomach upset.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to levocetirizine, phenylephrine, or any component of the formulation","Severe hypertension","Coronary artery disease","Hyperthyroidism","Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not use with alcohol or other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, or thyroid disorders.","Do not exceed recommended dose; high doses of phenylephrine can cause severe hypertension.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or are accompanied by fever.","Not recommended for children under 12 years without medical advice."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Levocetirizine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Phenylephrine may reduce breast milk production. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, hypertension, palpitations, or seizures. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ 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.

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. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness. Inform your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, or kidney disease. Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor. Keep out of reach of children.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and cardiovascular effects of this medicine. Use with caution, and lower doses may be considered. Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are planning pregnancy or are pregnant. Levocetirizine is generally considered safe, but phenylephrine should be used with caution.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist if you are taking this medicine before surgery. It may interact with anesthetic agents and affect blood pressure.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may cause dry mouth and increase the risk of dental caries. It may also interact with local anesthetics containing epinephrine.

💚 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.
😴
Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables to boost immunity.
💧
Stay hydrated to help thin mucus and relieve congestion.
🧘
Get adequate rest to support your body's recovery.
🌞
Practice good hand hygiene to prevent infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you. Light exercise like walking may be safe if you feel well.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like fish and flaxseeds to reduce inflammation.
Avoid processed foods and excess sugar.
Stay well hydrated with water and warm fluids.
Consume vitamin C-rich fruits like oranges and amla.
Limit caffeine intake as it may increase heart rate.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your job requires 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 severe side effects. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it for a long time without medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended without medical supervision. Prolonged use of phenylephrine can lead to rebound congestion and increased blood pressure. Levocetirizine may cause tolerance. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and renal function is advised if used for extended periods.

🌿 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 prevent allergic rhinitis symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established
Intranasal corticosteroid sprays

Effective for moderate to severe allergic rhinitis, but require prescription.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you are unwell with a fever, consult your 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 your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing schedule 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 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 initially but it subsided after a few days. She was advised to take it with food to avoid stomach upset.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food can improve tolerability, and mild drowsiness often decreases with continued use.
👤 A 50-year-old man with common cold and nasal congestion
He took this medicine for his cold symptoms. His nasal congestion and sneezing improved, but he noticed his heart rate increased slightly. He informed his doctor, who monitored his blood pressure and advised him to avoid caffeine.
💡 Lesson: Phenylephrine can cause cardiovascular effects; patients with heart conditions should be monitored.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: Levocetirizine starts working within 1 hour, while phenylephrine may take 15-30 minutes to relieve nasal congestion.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.

Q: Is it safe to drive after taking this medicine?

A: This medicine may cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

A: No, avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.

Q: How long can I take this medicine?

A: This medicine is for short-term use. Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.

🤔 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 coldgard-plus 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 provides symptomatic relief but does not cure allergies. Allergies require long-term management.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for months.
    Fact: This medicine is intended for short-term use. Prolonged use should be under medical supervision.
  • Myth: More tablets will give faster relief.
    Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious side effects like high blood pressure and severe drowsiness.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Levocetirizine + Phenylephrine tablets

Brand Alternatives

  • Acolate Plus Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Levocetirizine + Phenylephrine","composition":"Levocetirizine 5 mg + Phenylephrine 5 mg","onset":"1 hour","duration":"24 hours","sedation":"Mild"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine + Pseudoephedrine","composition":"Cetirizine 5 mg + Pseudoephedrine 120 mg","onset":"1 hour","duration":"12-24 hours","sedation":"Moderate"},{"medicine":"Loratadine + Phenylephrine","composition":"Loratadine 10 mg + Phenylephrine 10 mg","onset":"1-3 hours","duration":"24 hours","sedation":"Minimal"}]

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