control tablet - Caffeine (20mg) + Chlorpheniramine Maleate (4mg) medicine

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

No reviews yet
🏭 Lark Laboratories Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 21, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 21, 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

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is control tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of Caffeine (20mg) and Chlorpheniramine Maleate (4mg) used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. It works by blocking histamine and providing mild stimulation to counteract drowsiness.

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

🇮🇳 control tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा कैफीन (20 मिलीग्राम) और क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट (4 मिलीग्राम) का संयोजन है। इसका उपयोग एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे छींक, नाक बहना, खुजली और आंखों में पानी आना को कम करने के लिए किया जाता है। यह एलर्जी के कारण होने वाली परेशानियों में राहत देती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि, जी मिचलाना और बेचैनी शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के और अस्थायी होते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन यदि आपको गंभीर एलर्जी, अनियमित दिल की धड़कन, मतिभ्रम या पेशाब करने में कठिनाई हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने के बाद गाड़ी न चलाएं या भारी मशीनरी न चलाएं क्योंकि इससे नींद आ सकती है। शराब और अन्य नींद लाने वाली दवाओं से बचें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भवती होने की योजना बना रही हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के लंबे समय तक इस दवा का सेवन न करें। 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.

💊 control tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from runny nose and sneezing, though it does not treat the underlying infection.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Helps reduce itching and hives due to allergic reactions.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"May reduce itching and redness in the eyes caused by allergies.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia due to shift work","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its stimulant effect to promote wakefulness, but not recommended due to potential side effects.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"Chlorpheniramine may help prevent motion sickness, but caffeine may not be beneficial.","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
ManufacturerLark Laboratories Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassAntihistamine + CNS Stimulant
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
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 after taking this medicine as it may cause drowsiness.
3
Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase drowsiness.
4
Limit caffeine intake from other sources to avoid excessive stimulation.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.
6
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 relieve this symptom.
Likely Use
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
Itching
This medicine can help with itching due to allergies.
Likely Use

🔬 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 absorption but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionChlorpheniramine Maleate is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the placenta. Caffeine also distributes widely and crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta.
Protein BindingChlorpheniramine Maleate is approximately 70% bound to plasma proteins. Caffeine is about 10-35% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismChlorpheniramine Maleate is metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes. Caffeine is metabolized in the liver by CYP1A2, CYP2E1, and CYP3A4 enzymes.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of Chlorpheniramine Maleate is approximately 12-43 hours, while that of Caffeine is about 3-7 hours.
ExcretionChlorpheniramine Maleate and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Caffeine and its metabolites are also excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityChlorpheniramine Maleate has a bioavailability of about 25-50% due to first-pass metabolism. Caffeine has nearly 100% bioavailability after oral administration.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for Chlorpheniramine Maleate is typically within 30-60 minutes, while Caffeine's stimulant effect begins within 15-30 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of Chlorpheniramine Maleate are reached in about 2-6 hours, and for Caffeine in about 30-60 minutes.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action for Chlorpheniramine Maleate is about 4-6 hours, while 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 reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and vasodilation. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that antagonizes adenosine receptors, leading to increased alertness and reduced drowsiness. The combination aims to provide allergy relief while mitigating the sedative effects of the antihistamine.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Chlorpheniramine Maleate binds to H1 receptors on cells, preventing histamine from triggering allergic responses such as sneezing, itching, and increased vascular permeability.
2
Adenosine receptor antagonism: Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, which reduces the inhibitory effect of adenosine and increases neuronal activity, leading to heightened alertness.
3
Combined effect: The combination provides allergy symptom relief while caffeine counteracts the sedative effect of chlorpheniramine, helping to maintain wakefulness.

💡 How to Take control tablet

Strength: Each immediate-release oral tablet contains Caffeine 20mg and Chlorpheniramine Maleate 4mg.

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 take more than the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose 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 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 this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and anticholinergic effects. Use with caution and lower doses may be appropriate. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be necessary in patients with renal impairment. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentDose adjustment may be necessary in patients with hepatic impairment. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 6 tablets in 24 hours for adults. 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.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.
Caffeine-containing beverages
Limit
May increase stimulant side 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 control tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid alcohol.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
Nervousness (Common (5-10%))
Reduce caffeine intake from other sources. Consult doctor if severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice palpitations or irregular pulse.
Hallucinations (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop the medicine and seek medical help if you experience hallucinations.
Urinary retention (Rare (<0.1%))
Consult a doctor if you have difficulty urinating.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias
Report unusual bleeding or bruising to your doctor.
Liver dysfunction
Seek medical advice if you notice yellowing of eyes or skin.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Alcohol Major
Benzodiazepines Major
Fluoxetine Moderate
Ciprofloxacin Moderate
Benztropine Moderate
Oral contraceptives Minor
Smoking Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Alcohol
  • Other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids)

⚡ 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 enhance the sedative effects of chlorpheniramine and increase the risk of dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination. It may also increase the risk of liver toxicity.

🔎 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 or prostatic hypertrophy.","Severe liver disease.","Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).","Children under 12 years of age (unless directed by a doctor)."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in patients with asthma, COPD, or sleep apnea.","Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or arrhythmias.","Use with caution in patients with hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or seizure disorders.","Do not exceed recommended dose.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Chlorpheniramine Maleate and Caffeine are excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised; consult a doctor before use during breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, confusion, tachycardia, hallucinations, seizures, and respiratory depression. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if within 1-2 hours of ingestion. 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 the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking this medicine because it may cause drowsiness. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants as they can increase drowsiness. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not take this medicine for longer than recommended 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 are more prone to side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and anticholinergic effects. Use with caution and lower doses may be needed.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Chlorpheniramine is generally considered safe in pregnancy but caffeine should be limited.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your doctor before taking this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with anesthetics and other medications.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may cause dry mouth and affect dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce allergy symptoms.
🥗
Regular low-impact exercise like swimming.
😴
Practice good posture.
💧
Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet.
🧘
Get adequate sleep.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel drowsy or dizzy after taking this medicine. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods
Reduce processed food intake
Stay well hydrated

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if you experience severe side effects, allergic reactions, or if symptoms persist beyond 7 days. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it regularly for a long time without medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to tolerance, dependence, and increased risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and urinary retention. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be advised. Consult your doctor for periodic evaluation.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Allergen avoidance

Identifying and avoiding allergens can reduce the need for medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Nasal saline irrigation

Can help relieve nasal congestion and allergy symptoms.

Evidence: Established
Immunotherapy

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

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific interactions with vaccines are known. However, consult your doctor before vaccination if you are taking this medicine.

📦 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 along with a copy of your prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing according to your usual schedule but consult your doctor if unsure. Check local customs regulations regarding prescription medications.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergies
She was prescribed this medicine for her sneezing and runny nose. She found that taking it with breakfast reduced her stomach upset and the caffeine helped her stay alert during the day. She avoided driving until she knew how it affected her.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food can improve tolerability, and it is important to assess your alertness before driving.
👤 A 50-year-old man with chronic urticaria
He used this medicine as needed for itching and hives. He noticed that it made him slightly drowsy but the caffeine counteracted it. He was advised not to exceed the recommended dose and to monitor for any unusual symptoms.
💡 Lesson: Do not exceed the recommended dose, and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor.

💬 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: Use only if prescribed by your doctor. Chlorpheniramine is category B, caffeine is category C.

🤔 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 control tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Control Tablet can cure allergies permanently.
    Fact: This medicine only provides symptomatic relief and does not cure allergies.
  • Myth: It is safe to drive after taking Control Tablet.
    Fact: This medicine may cause drowsiness, so driving should be avoided.
  • Myth: You can take Control Tablet with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the sedative effects and should be avoided.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Caffeine + Chlorpheniramine Maleate tablets from other manufacturers

Brand Alternatives

  • Control Tablet (Lark Laboratories Ltd)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Control Tablet","composition":"Caffeine 20mg + Chlorpheniramine Maleate 4mg","uses":"Allergic rhinitis, common cold","sedation":"Moderate","stimulation":"Mild"},{"medicine":"Chlorpheniramine alone","composition":"Chlorpheniramine Maleate 4mg","uses":"Allergic rhinitis, common cold","sedation":"High","stimulation":"None"},{"medicine":"Caffeine alone","composition":"Caffeine 20mg","uses":"Stimulant","sedation":"None","stimulation":"Moderate"}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory