Cold Suspension with Cetirizine and Paracetamol: Complete Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Severe drowsiness, confusion, or fainting
- Persistent high fever lasting more than 3 days
- Blood in vomit or black, tarry stools
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is mdzime forte tablet used for?
This medicine is a combination oral suspension of cetirizine 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 works by blocking histamine and reducing fever and pain. It should be taken only as directed and must not be combined with other paracetamol-containing products.
- Generic Name: Cetirizine (5mg) + Paracetamol (500mg)
- Manufacturer: Zenith Healthcare Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 mdzime forte tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा सर्दी-जुकाम और एलर्जी के लक्षणों से राहत देने के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। इसमें सेटिरिज़िन और पैरासिटामोल दो सक्रिय तत्व होते हैं। सेटिरिज़िन छींक, नाक बहना, आंखों में पानी आना और खुजली को कम करता है, जबकि पैरासिटामोल बुखार और हल्के दर्द जैसे सिरदर्द और बदन दर्द को कम करता है। यह दवा वायरस को नहीं मारती, इसलिए यह सर्दी का इलाज नहीं बल्कि लक्षणों से राहत देती है। इसे डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही लें और पैरासिटामोल वाली अन्य दवाओं के साथ न लें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, थकान, चक्कर आना और पेट में हल्की परेशानी शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को सिरदर्द, जी मिचलाना या बेचैनी भी हो सकती है। बहुत कम मामलों में एलर्जी, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, या सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो सकती है। पैरासिटामोल की अधिक मात्रा से लिवर को गंभीर नुकसान हो सकता है। अगर कोई भी दुष्प्रभाव गंभीर या लंबे समय तक बना रहे, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर या फार्मासिस्ट की सलाह के अनुसार ही लें। पैरासिटामोल की अधिकतम दैनिक मात्रा से ज्यादा कभी न लें और अन्य दवाओं में छिपे पैरासिटामोल की जांच करें। इस दवा के साथ शराब न लें क्योंकि इससे लिवर को नुकसान और नींद बढ़ सकती है। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक गाड़ी चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें। गर्भावस्था, स्तनपान या बच्चों में उपयोग से पहले डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। दवा को बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें और सही मापने वाले कप या सिरिंज से ही मात्रा लें।
💊 mdzime forte tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and mild fever or body ache associated with viral upper respiratory infections.","evidence":"Well-established for symptom relief"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Reduces sneezing, nasal itching, rhinorrhea, and itchy or watery eyes caused by seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Mild to moderate pain with fever","description":"Paracetamol component lowers fever and relieves headache, sore throat, and body aches when these occur alongside cold or allergy symptoms.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Acute urticaria with mild pain","description":"Sometimes used when itching and mild pain coexist, though antihistamine monotherapy is usually preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Post-vaccination fever with allergic symptoms","description":"May be considered by clinicians for short-term relief when both fever and allergy-like symptoms are present.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Common cold and allergic rhinitis
Also treats: Mild fever with cold symptoms, Headache and body ache with cold, Seasonal allergic rhinitis, Perennial allergic rhinitis
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Cetirizine (5mg) + Paracetamol (500mg) |
| Brand Name | mdzime forte tablet |
| Manufacturer | Zenith Healthcare Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | RESPIRATORY |
| Action Class | |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not freeze unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise. |
| Shelf Life | Refer to the manufacturer's label. Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture when stored as directed. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ 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 works through two complementary mechanisms. Cetirizine selectively blocks peripheral histamine H1 receptors, reducing the vascular permeability, itching, sneezing, and mucus production that histamine triggers during colds and allergies. Paracetamol acts mainly in the central nervous system to reduce fever and pain; it inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the brain and may affect pain signaling pathways, but it has little anti-inflammatory action in peripheral tissues. The combination addresses both allergic-type symptoms and fever or aches without causing the marked sedation typical of older antihistamines.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take mdzime forte tablet
Strength: Oral suspension containing cetirizine 5 mg and paracetamol 500 mg per 5 mL, immediate release.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 5 mL to 10 mL orally every 4 to 6 hours as needed for cold or allergy symptoms, not exceeding the maximum daily paracetamol limit. The exact dose and frequency must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, liver and kidney function, and other medicines being taken. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose of paracetamol. Use a proper measuring device for accurate dosing. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for weight-based dosing and age-appropriate use. |
| Elderly Dosage | Older adults may be more sensitive to the drowsiness caused by cetirizine and may have reduced liver or kidney function. Use the lowest effective dose and consult a clinician for individualized dosing. |
| Renal Impairment | Cetirizine dose reduction may be needed in kidney impairment because it is excreted mainly by the kidneys. Paracetamol is generally used with caution in kidney disease. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Paracetamol should be used with caution in liver disease, and the total daily dose may need to be reduced. Consult a clinician for individualized dosing and monitoring. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | Do not exceed the maximum daily dose of paracetamol as stated on the product label or prescribed by a clinician. For adults, the usual maximum paracetamol dose is 4 grams per day, but lower limits may apply in liver disease, alcohol use, or frailty. Cetirizine maximum daily dose is generally 10 mg for adults. Always follow the clinician's advice. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of mdzime forte tablet
✅ 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 | |
| Other paracetamol products | Major | |
| Alcohol | Major | |
| Sedatives and opioids | Moderate | |
| Carbamazepine | Moderate | |
| Phenytoin | Moderate | |
| Rifampicin | Moderate | |
| Anticholinergics | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor | |
| Food | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Other paracetamol-containing products
- Alcohol
- Warfarin
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Central nervous system depressants (sedatives, hypnotics, opioids)
- Anticholinergic medicines
- Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampicin
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine. It increases the risk of paracetamol-related liver damage and adds to the drowsiness caused by cetirizine. People who drink heavily should consult a doctor before using any paracetamol-containing product.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity or allergy to cetirizine, paracetamol, or any component of this medicine","Severe liver disease or active liver failure","Use of other paracetamol-containing products without medical supervision","Heavy alcohol use without medical advice","Children below the age recommended by the manufacturer or clinician"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Do not exceed the maximum daily dose of paracetamol.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Use with caution in liver or kidney disease.","Consult a doctor before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.","Do not use for longer than recommended without medical advice.","Keep out of reach of children.","Check other medicines for paracetamol content to avoid accidental overdose."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Cetirizine passes into breast milk in small amounts and may cause drowsiness in a breastfed infant. Paracetamol passes into breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding at recommended doses. Consult a clinician before using this medicine while breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause serious liver injury due to paracetamol. Symptoms of paracetamol overdose may initially be mild or absent, but can progress to nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and liver failure. If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical care immediately, even if you feel well. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Treatment may include activated charcoal, N-acetylcysteine, and supportive care. Cetirizine overdose may cause drowsiness, agitation, or rapid heart rate, and supportive care is usually required.
⏰ 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 almost 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.
Additional Safety Advice
Always follow the dose and duration recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not take more than the maximum daily dose of paracetamol, and check other medicines you are using for hidden paracetamol to avoid doubling up. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it increases the risk of liver damage and adds to drowsiness. Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult a clinician before use. Do not use this medicine for more than a few days without medical advice, especially if fever persists or symptoms worsen. Keep it out of reach of children and use a proper measuring device for accurate dosing. Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and health conditions you have, particularly liver or kidney problems.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Older adults may be more sensitive to drowsiness and dry mouth from cetirizine and may have reduced liver or kidney function. Use the lowest effective dose and consult a clinician for individualized dosing. Monitor for confusion, falls, or urinary retention.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning pregnancy, consult a doctor before using this medicine. Paracetamol is generally considered the preferred pain and fever reliever in pregnancy when used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. Cetirizine should be used only if clearly needed and after medical advice.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Consult your surgeon or doctor before using this medicine after surgery, especially if you are taking other pain medicines that may contain paracetamol. Avoid alcohol and follow your post-operative care instructions.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. Paracetamol may be used for dental pain, but cetirizine can cause drowsiness. Avoid combining with other paracetamol-containing pain medicines.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Mild activity is usually fine, but avoid strenuous exercise if you have fever, body ache, or feel very tired. Because this medicine can cause drowsiness, avoid activities that require full alertness, such as heavy lifting or high-intensity workouts, until you know how it affects you.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive, operate machinery, or concentrate at work. Avoid driving or hazardous tasks until you know how it affects you. If your job requires alertness, discuss with your doctor about timing the dose or using an alternative. Most people can continue light office work with caution.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop this medicine when your cold or allergy symptoms improve, or as advised by your doctor. Do not stop suddenly if you have been taking it regularly for a long time without medical advice. If you develop yellowing of the eyes or skin, severe abdominal pain, or signs of an allergic reaction, stop the medicine and seek medical help immediately.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended without medical supervision. Prolonged regular use of paracetamol can increase the risk of liver and kidney problems, especially with alcohol or other medicines. Cetirizine may cause ongoing drowsiness or dry mouth. If symptoms persist for more than a few days, consult a doctor to find the underlying cause and avoid unnecessary long-term use.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Helps clear nasal passages and reduce congestion without medicine.
Evidence: Well-establishedCan temporarily ease nasal stuffiness and throat irritation.
Evidence: LimitedMay be sufficient if there is no fever or pain.
Evidence: Well-establishedMay be sufficient if there is fever or pain without allergy symptoms.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
This medicine does not interact with most vaccines. However, if you have a fever, some vaccines may be postponed until you recover. Consult your doctor about vaccination timing if you are currently unwell.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified by the manufacturer
✅ DO
Keep in the original container with the cap tightly closed
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
❌ DON'T
Do not store in the bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children
❌ DON'T
Do not use after the expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription or a copy of it. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight during travel. If you are crossing time zones, follow the dosing schedule advised by your doctor and do not double up doses. Check customs rules for carrying medicines in your destination country. If you are flying, keep the suspension in your hand luggage if you may need it during the journey, and ensure the bottle is tightly closed to prevent leakage.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: Cetirizine usually starts working within 1 hour, and paracetamol begins to reduce fever and pain within 30 to 60 minutes.
A: Yes, but if it causes stomach discomfort, take it with a small snack or milk.
A: Only after checking with a doctor or pharmacist, because many cold medicines contain paracetamol and combining them can cause overdose.
A: It should only be used in children under medical advice and at the correct weight-based dose.
A: Seek emergency medical care immediately, even if you feel well, because paracetamol overdose can cause serious liver injury.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for mdzime forte tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
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alcoryl tabletAlice Healthcare Pvt Ltd ₹14.06 5.4% CHEAPER
-
anncold 5mg/500mg/60mg tabletAccurate Pharmaceuticals ₹15.00 0.9% COSTLIER
-
nancold 5mg/500mg/50mg tabletAlpic Remedies Ltd ₹15.00 0.9% COSTLIER
-
sinact 5mg/500mg/60mg tabletPharmatech Healthcare ₹16.88 13.5% COSTLIER
-
a cold 5mg/500mg/30mg tabletArika Healthcare ₹17.81 19.8% COSTLIER
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 cure the infection. - Myth: More medicine means faster relief.
Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious liver injury and does not speed up recovery. - Myth: It is safe to combine with any other cold medicine.
Fact: Many cold medicines contain paracetamol. Combining them can lead to accidental overdose. - Myth: This medicine is safe for babies.
Fact: It should only be used in children under medical advice and at the correct weight-based dose.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Cetirizine and paracetamol oral suspension
- Cetirizine oral solution
- Paracetamol oral suspension