ctz plus syrup - Cetirizine (2.5mg) + Paracetamol (125mg) medicine

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

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🏭 Psychotropics India Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 22, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for symptomatic relief of 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
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is ctz plus syrup used for?

This medicine is a combination of cetirizine (an antihistamine) and paracetamol (a pain reliever and fever reducer). It is used to treat symptoms of allergies and the common cold, such as runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and mild fever. It works by blocking histamine and reducing pain and fever.

  • Generic Name: Cetirizine + Paracetamol
  • Manufacturer: Psychotropics India Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 ctz plus syrup के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी और सर्दी-जुकाम के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना, आंखों में पानी आना, हल्का बुखार और शरीर दर्द में राहत देने के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। इसमें सेटिरिज़िन और पैरासिटामोल दो दवाएं होती हैं। सेटिरिज़िन एलर्जी को कम करता है और पैरासिटामोल दर्द और बुखार को कम करता है।

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, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या पीलिया जैसे लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। खुद से ज्यादा मात्रा में न लें। दवा लेने के बाद नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

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

💊 ctz plus syrup 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 runny nose, sneezing, and mild fever or body ache associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Helps reduce itching and hives associated with allergic skin reactions.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"Reduces itching, redness, and tearing of the eyes due to allergies.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Mild anxiety","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its sedative effects, but not recommended as a primary treatment.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Occasionally used off-label for short-term sleep aid due to drowsiness, but not recommended.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Common cold, Urticaria, Allergic conjunctivitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Cetirizine + Paracetamol
Brand NameAlerid Cold Tablet
ManufacturerPsychotropics India Ltd
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. 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 machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
3
Do not exceed the recommended dose, as it can cause liver damage.
4
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days.
6
Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease.
7
Keep out of reach of children.

🔍 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 is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Itchy, watery eyes
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Mild fever
This medicine can help reduce fever.
Likely Use
✅
Body ache
This medicine can help relieve body ache.
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 0.5 to 2 hours. Food may delay the absorption of cetirizine slightly but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionCetirizine is widely distributed throughout the body, with a volume of distribution of approximately 0.5 L/kg. It is about 93% bound to plasma proteins. Paracetamol distributes widely into most body tissues, with a volume of distribution of about 0.9 L/kg. It is only minimally bound to plasma proteins (10-25%).
Protein BindingCetirizine is approximately 93% bound to plasma proteins. Paracetamol is minimally bound to plasma proteins (10-25%).
MetabolismCetirizine undergoes minimal hepatic metabolism; it is primarily excreted unchanged in the 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 with normal renal function. The elimination half-life of paracetamol is about 2 to 3 hours.
ExcretionCetirizine is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, with about 60% of the dose recovered in urine. Paracetamol is excreted in the urine as glucuronide and sulfate conjugates, with less than 5% excreted unchanged.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of cetirizine is approximately 70% or higher. Paracetamol has an oral bioavailability of about 80-100%.
Onset of ActionCetirizine begins to relieve allergic symptoms within 1 hour of oral administration. Paracetamol starts reducing fever and pain within 30 to 60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeCetirizine reaches peak plasma concentrations in about 1 hour. Paracetamol reaches peak plasma concentrations in 0.5 to 2 hours.
Duration of ActionCetirizine provides antihistamine effects for about 24 hours. Paracetamol provides pain and fever relief for about 4 to 6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary mechanisms. Cetirizine is a second-generation antihistamine that selectively antagonizes peripheral H1 receptors, reducing allergic symptoms by blocking histamine release. Paracetamol acts centrally to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, thereby reducing pain and fever. The combination provides relief from both allergic and pain/fever symptoms.

Mechanism Steps

1
Cetirizine binds to H1 receptors: Cetirizine competitively blocks histamine at H1 receptor sites, preventing histamine-mediated allergic responses such as vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation.
2
Paracetamol inhibits central prostaglandin synthesis: Paracetamol reduces the production of prostaglandins in the central nervous system, which lowers fever and decreases pain perception.
3
Combined symptomatic relief: The antihistamine action of cetirizine alleviates runny nose, sneezing, and itching, while paracetamol addresses fever and body aches, providing comprehensive relief from cold and allergy symptoms.

💡 How to Take ctz plus syrup

Strength: Tablet containing Cetirizine 2.5 mg and Paracetamol 125 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2It can be taken with or without food, but taking 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 is 1 to 2 tablets taken orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed for symptoms, not to exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours. However, dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. 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 side effects, especially drowsiness. Use with caution and consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be required in patients with renal impairment. Consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose reduction may be necessary. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose should not exceed 6 tablets in 24 hours, providing a total of 750 mg paracetamol and 15 mg cetirizine. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

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.
Grapefruit juice
Avoid
May increase cetirizine levels.

⏰ 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 ctz plus syrup

✅ 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%))
Get adequate rest. Consult doctor if severe.
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, 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) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Stop the medicine and seek immediate medical help if you develop a rash with blisters or peeling skin.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood dyscrasias (e.g., thrombocytopenia)
Report unusual bleeding or bruising to your doctor immediately.
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
CNS depressants Major
Carbamazepine Moderate
Phenytoin Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Isoniazid Moderate
Antacids Minor
Cholestyramine Minor
Grapefruit juice Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Alcohol
  • Other antihistamines, sedatives, or CNS depressants

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin
  • Isoniazid

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage from paracetamol and enhances the drowsiness caused by cetirizine. It can also impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known 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 you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Do not exceed the recommended dose of paracetamol; overdose can cause severe liver damage.","Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.","Not recommended for children under 2 years without medical advice."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

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

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe liver damage due to paracetamol. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and yellowing of skin or eyes. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment may include administration of N-acetylcysteine as an antidote for paracetamol toxicity. Cetirizine overdose may cause drowsiness, agitation, or tachycardia; supportive care is recommended.

⏰ 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

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 recommended without consulting your 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 side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness and confusion. Use with caution and consult a doctor for appropriate dosing.

🤰 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 is not well established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your doctor before taking this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with other medications or affect recovery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

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

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
🥗
Get adequate rest to help your body recover.
😴
Avoid exposure to allergens like dust and pollen.
💧
Use a humidifier to ease nasal congestion.
🧘
Practice good hand hygiene to prevent infections.
🌞
Avoid alcohol and smoking.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel drowsy or fatigued. Light activities like walking are generally safe. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise routine while on this medicine.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include warm soups and broths to soothe your throat.
Eat fruits rich in vitamin C to boost immunity.
Avoid cold and processed foods that may worsen symptoms.
Stay well hydrated with water and herbal teas.

💼 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 it affects you. It may also reduce your concentration, so take precautions at work.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms persist beyond 7 days, worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not stop abruptly if you have been on long-term therapy without medical advice.

📅 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. 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.

Saline nasal rinse

Helps clear nasal congestion and allergens.

Evidence: Well-established
Steam inhalation

Can relieve nasal congestion and soothe airways.

Evidence: Moderate
Allergen avoidance

Reducing exposure to allergens can prevent symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you are unwell with 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 light and moisture. If traveling across time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as prescribed. 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 allergies
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 was advised to take it with food to prevent stomach upset.
💡 Lesson: This medicine provides effective relief from allergy symptoms, but drowsiness can occur; take precautions.
👤 A 50-year-old man with common cold and body ache
He took this medicine for his cold symptoms and mild fever. His fever reduced within an hour, and his body ache improved. He was reminded not to exceed the recommended dose to avoid liver problems.
💡 Lesson: Paracetamol in this medicine helps with fever and pain, but adherence to dosage is crucial for safety.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within 1 hour for allergic symptoms and within 30-60 minutes for fever and pain.

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 upset.

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 if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

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

A: Consult your doctor before combining with other medicines, as they may contain paracetamol or antihistamines, leading to overdose.

🤔 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 ctz plus syrup

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: It is non-drowsy.
    Fact: Cetirizine can cause significant drowsiness in some people; avoid driving until you know how it affects you.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Cetirizine + Paracetamol combination tablets from other manufacturers

Brand Alternatives

  • Anecold Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Cetirizine + Paracetamol","composition":"Cetirizine 2.5 mg + Paracetamol 125 mg","onset":"1 hour","duration":"4-6 hours for paracetamol, 24 hours for cetirizine","sedation":"Moderate"},{"medicine":"Levocetirizine + Paracetamol","composition":"Levocetirizine 2.5 mg + Paracetamol 500 mg","onset":"1 hour","duration":"4-6 hours for paracetamol, 24 hours for levocetirizine","sedation":"Moderate"},{"medicine":"Loratadine + Paracetamol","composition":"Loratadine 10 mg + Paracetamol 500 mg","onset":"1-3 hours","duration":"4-6 hours for paracetamol, 24 hours for loratadine","sedation":"Low"}]

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