histarest plus 2.5mg/10mg/325mg tablet - Levocetirizine (2.5mg) + Phenylephrine (10mg) medicine

Duocold 2.5mg/10mg Tablet: Comprehensive Guide

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🏭 Blue Planet Laboratories Pvt. Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for the combination in symptomatic relief of 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

  • Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
  • Chest pain, palpitations, or irregular heartbeat.
  • Severe headache with blurred vision or confusion.
  • Inability to urinate or severe lower abdominal pain.
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
  • Seizures or loss of consciousness.
  • Unusual bleeding or bruising.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is histarest plus 2.5mg/10mg/325mg tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of levocetirizine (an antihistamine) and phenylephrine (a decongestant) used to treat symptoms of allergic rhinitis and the common cold, such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. It works by blocking histamine and constricting nasal blood vessels. It is usually taken once or twice daily with food, and should not be used for more than 7 days without medical advice.

  • Generic Name: Levocetirizine (2.5mg) + Phenylephrine (10mg)
  • Manufacturer: Blue Planet Laboratories Pvt. Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 histarest plus 2.5mg/10mg/325mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा लेवोसेटिरिज़िन और फेनिलएफ्रिन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग एलर्जिक राइनाइटिस और सामान्य जुकाम के लक्षणों जैसे छींक, नाक बहना, और नाक बंद होना के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह एलर्जी के कारण होने वाली सूजन और खुजली को कम करती है और नाक के रक्त वाहिकाओं को सिकोड़कर जमाव को कम करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुँह सूखना, सिरदर्द, थकान और हल्का पेट दर्द शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को घबराहट, चक्कर आना या नींद न आने की समस्या हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन यदि आपको दिल की धड़कन तेज होना, रक्तचाप बढ़ना, या पेशाब करने में कठिनाई हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। निर्धारित मात्रा से अधिक न लें। इस दवा को लेने के बाद नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आपको उच्च रक्तचाप, हृदय रोग, मधुमेह, थायरॉइड या गुर्दे की बीमारी है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। 7 दिनों से अधिक इस दवा का उपयोग बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न करें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 histarest plus 2.5mg/10mg/325mg 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 nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose due to upper respiratory tract infections.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Hay fever","description":"Reduces allergic symptoms triggered by pollen exposure, including nasal and ocular symptoms.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Vasomotor rhinitis","description":"May be used off-label to reduce non-allergic nasal congestion and sneezing.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Eustachian tube dysfunction","description":"Sometimes prescribed to alleviate congestion-related ear pressure, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Common cold, Hay fever, Vasomotor rhinitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Levocetirizine (2.5mg) + Phenylephrine (10mg)
Brand Namehistarest plus 2.5mg/10mg/325mg tablet
ManufacturerBlue Planet Laboratories Pvt. Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
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 the risk of stomach upset.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects your alertness.
3
Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness.
4
If you have high blood pressure or heart disease, consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
5
Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting your doctor.
6
Stay well hydrated to help relieve nasal congestion and dry mouth.
7
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Sneezing and runny nose
This medicine is commonly prescribed for these symptoms.
Likely Use
✅
Nasal congestion
The decongestant component helps relieve congestion.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
✅
Itchy, watery eyes
The antihistamine component helps with allergic eye symptoms.
Likely Use

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionLevocetirizine is rapidly and extensively 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 and variable due to extensive first-pass metabolism in the gut and liver.
DistributionLevocetirizine distributes widely throughout the body, with a volume of distribution of approximately 0.4 L/kg. It does not extensively bind to plasma proteins. Phenylephrine distribution is not well characterized but is expected to distribute into tissues, including the nasal mucosa.
Protein BindingLevocetirizine is approximately 90% bound to plasma proteins. Phenylephrine protein binding is not established from the available information.
MetabolismLevocetirizine undergoes minimal hepatic metabolism; it is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine. Phenylephrine is extensively metabolized in the liver and gut wall by monoamine oxidase and sulfotransferases, which contributes to its low oral bioavailability.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of levocetirizine is approximately 6 to 8 hours in healthy adults. The elimination half-life of phenylephrine is not well established but is thought to be short, around 2 to 3 hours.
ExcretionLevocetirizine is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine, with about 85% of the dose recovered in urine and 13% in feces. Phenylephrine and its metabolites are excreted mainly in the urine.
BioavailabilityLevocetirizine oral bioavailability is high, approximately 90% or more. Phenylephrine oral bioavailability is low and variable, estimated to be around 38% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionLevocetirizine begins to relieve allergic symptoms within 1 hour of oral administration. Phenylephrine nasal decongestion may start within 15 to 30 minutes after oral intake, though the effect is less pronounced than with topical decongestants.
Peak Plasma TimeLevocetirizine reaches peak plasma concentration in about 1 hour. Phenylephrine peak plasma levels are achieved within 0.5 to 2 hours, but its clinical effect may not correlate directly with plasma levels.
Duration of ActionLevocetirizine provides symptom relief for approximately 24 hours, allowing once-daily dosing. Phenylephrine's decongestant effect lasts about 4 to 6 hours after oral administration.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary mechanisms. Levocetirizine, the active enantiomer of cetirizine, is a selective peripheral H1-receptor antagonist. It blocks histamine binding to H1 receptors, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and rhinorrhea. Phenylephrine is a direct-acting sympathomimetic amine that primarily stimulates alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on vascular smooth muscle in the nasal mucosa. This causes vasoconstriction, which reduces blood flow and swelling in the nasal passages, leading to decreased congestion. The combination provides both antihistaminic and decongestant effects for comprehensive symptom relief.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Levocetirizine binds to H1 receptors on cells in the nasal mucosa and conjunctiva, preventing histamine from triggering allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and watery discharge.
2
Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor stimulation: Phenylephrine stimulates alpha-1 receptors on nasal blood vessels, causing them to constrict and reduce blood flow, which decreases swelling and congestion in the nasal passages.
3
Combined symptomatic relief: The antihistamine and decongestant actions work together to relieve both allergic and congestive components of rhinitis, providing comprehensive symptom control.

💡 How to Take histarest plus 2.5mg/10mg/325mg tablet

Strength: Each tablet contains levocetirizine 2.5 mg and phenylephrine 10 mg.

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
3Take with food to 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 of this medicine is one tablet taken orally once or twice daily, as prescribed by your doctor. The exact dose and frequency depend on the severity of symptoms and your response to treatment. 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 side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dry mouth, and urinary retention. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Use with caution and monitor closely.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, dose adjustment is required. For moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-49 mL/min), a lower dose may be recommended. For severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min), this medicine is contraindicated. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is provided for hepatic impairment. However, use with caution in patients with severe liver disease. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is one tablet twice daily, but this should not be exceeded without medical advice. The maximum daily dose of levocetirizine should not exceed 5 mg, and phenylephrine should not exceed 40 mg per day.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit juice
Avoid
May increase drug levels and 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 histarest plus 2.5mg/10mg/325mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. If drowsiness persists, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water frequently or chew sugar-free gum. If it becomes bothersome, talk to your doctor.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If it persists or is severe, consult your doctor.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Get adequate rest. If fatigue interferes with daily activities, inform your doctor.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce stomach upset. If nausea 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 the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Palpitations or irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice a fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat.
Severe hypertension (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek medical attention if you experience severe headache, blurred vision, or chest pain, which may indicate high blood pressure.
Urinary retention (Rare (<0.1%))
If you are unable to urinate or have difficulty passing urine, contact your doctor promptly.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Seizures
Seek emergency medical help if you experience convulsions or loss of consciousness.
Blood dyscrasias
Report any unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor immediately.
Hepatitis
Consult a doctor if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

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

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Beta-blockers

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids)
  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
  • Digoxin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can enhance the sedative effects of levocetirizine, leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. This can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery and may increase the risk of accidents.

🔎 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 or uncontrolled high blood pressure.","Severe coronary artery disease or recent myocardial infarction.","Use within 14 days of monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy.","Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 10 mL/min).","Children under 12 years of age (safety and efficacy not established).","Narrow-angle glaucoma.","Urinary retention or prostatic hypertrophy with residual urine."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine.","Use with caution in patients with hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or heart disease.","May cause urinary retention; use with caution in men with prostate enlargement.","Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.","May impair kidney function in patients with renal impairment; dose adjustment may be needed.","Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless clearly needed.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Levocetirizine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and may cause drowsiness in the infant. Phenylephrine may also pass into breast milk and could reduce milk production. This medicine is not recommended during breastfeeding unless advised by a doctor. Consider alternative treatments or monitor the infant for drowsiness.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine may cause severe drowsiness, agitation, hypertension, palpitations, or seizures. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, including monitoring of vital signs and management of specific symptoms. There is no specific antidote. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional.

⏰ 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 or duration. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and impair your ability to perform tasks. Inform your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, or kidney disease before taking this medicine. 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 may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, particularly drowsiness, dry mouth, and urinary retention. They may also have reduced renal function, which can affect drug clearance. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Use with caution and monitor closely.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Levocetirizine may be considered safe, but phenylephrine should be avoided, especially during the first trimester, as it may affect uterine blood flow. Alternative treatments may be recommended.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. The decongestant component may increase blood pressure and heart rate, which could be problematic in the postoperative period. Additionally, drowsiness may interfere with recovery and mobility.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. The dry mouth caused by this medicine may increase the risk of dental caries and oral infections. Your dentist may recommend preventive measures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid known allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander.
🥗
Use a humidifier to keep indoor air moist and reduce nasal irritation.
😴
Wash your hands frequently to prevent colds.
💧
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
🧘
Get adequate rest to support your immune system.
🌞
Use saline nasal sprays to help relieve congestion.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness, which can affect your coordination. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require mental alertness until you know how the medicine affects you. If you experience palpitations or shortness of breath during exercise, stop and consult your doctor.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and bell peppers, to support immune function.
Avoid spicy foods that may irritate the stomach.
Limit caffeine intake as it may increase nervousness or palpitations.
Drink warm fluids like herbal tea to soothe a sore throat and congestion.
Avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may affect your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how the medicine affects you. If your work involves operating heavy equipment, inform your employer and take necessary precautions.

🛑 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 any serious 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 decongestants like phenylephrine can lead to rebound congestion, where nasal congestion worsens when the medicine is stopped. Long-term antihistamine use may cause tolerance or other side effects. Regular monitoring by a doctor is advised if extended use is necessary.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Saline nasal irrigation

Using a saline solution to rinse the nasal passages can help relieve congestion and allergens.

Evidence: Well-established
Allergen avoidance

Identifying and avoiding triggers such as pollen, dust, and pet dander can reduce allergic symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established
Intranasal corticosteroid sprays

These are effective for allergic rhinitis and can be used as an alternative or adjunct to oral medications.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled to receive a vaccine, inform your healthcare provider that 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 at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust the dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check local customs regulations regarding prescription medications before you travel.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergic rhinitis
She was prescribed this medicine for her sneezing and runny nose during spring. She took it once daily with breakfast and noticed significant relief within a few hours. She experienced mild drowsiness initially, which subsided after a few days. She was advised not to drive until she knew how the medicine affected her.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine with food and avoiding driving until you know its effects can improve tolerability and safety.
👤 A 50-year-old man with common cold and nasal congestion
He started this medicine to relieve his severe nasal congestion and sneezing. He found that his symptoms improved, but he experienced dry mouth and mild dizziness. His doctor advised him to increase his water intake and to avoid alcohol. He was also cautioned not to use the medicine for more than a week.
💡 Lesson: Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol can help manage side effects like dry mouth and dizziness.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts relieving symptoms within 1 hour after taking it.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, taking it with food can help 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 take this medicine if I have high blood pressure?

A: Consult your doctor first. The decongestant component may increase blood pressure.

Q: How long can I take this medicine?

A: Do not use it 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 histarest plus 2.5mg/10mg/325mg 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 the common cold.
    Fact: This medicine only relieves symptoms; it does not cure the underlying viral infection.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine for weeks.
    Fact: Prolonged use without medical supervision can lead to rebound congestion and other side effects.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It is not safe for people with certain conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, or severe kidney problems.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Levocetirizine + Phenylephrine generic tablets

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","active_ingredients":"Levocetirizine 2.5 mg + Phenylephrine 10 mg","onset":"1 hour","duration":"24 hours for antihistamine; 4-6 hours for decongestant","sedation":"Mild to moderate","blood_pressure_effect":"May increase"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine + Pseudoephedrine","active_ingredients":"Cetirizine 5 mg + Pseudoephedrine 120 mg","onset":"1 hour","duration":"24 hours for antihistamine; 12 hours for decongestant","sedation":"Mild to moderate","blood_pressure_effect":"May increase"},{"medicine":"Loratadine + Phenylephrine","active_ingredients":"Loratadine 10 mg + Phenylephrine 10 mg","onset":"1-3 hours","duration":"24 hours for antihistamine; 4-6 hours for decongestant","sedation":"Minimal","blood_pressure_effect":"May increase"}]

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