procold tablet - Paracetamol (325mg) + Phenylephrine (5mg) medicine

Procold Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Concept Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Moderate for symptomatic relief of common cold; limited for other uses.
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

  • 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 or palpitations

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is procold tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of Paracetamol and Phenylephrine used for temporary relief of common cold symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, body ache, and mild fever. It works by reducing pain and fever and shrinking nasal blood vessels to ease congestion.

  • Generic Name: Paracetamol (325mg) + Phenylephrine (5mg)
  • Manufacturer: Concept Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 procold tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा पैरासिटामोल और फेनाइलएफ्रिन का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग सर्दी-जुकाम, नाक बंद होना, सिरदर्द, शरीर दर्द और हल्के बुखार से राहत पाने के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा नाक की रक्त वाहिकाओं को सिकोड़कर जमाव को कम करती है और दर्द तथा बुखार को कम करती है। इसका उपयोग केवल अल्पकालिक उपचार के लिए किया जाना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, पेट में परेशानी, सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना, घबराहट और रक्तचाप में वृद्धि शामिल हैं। दुर्लभ मामलों में गंभीर एलर्जी, यकृत क्षति, या हृदय संबंधी समस्याएं हो सकती हैं। यदि आपको कोई गंभीर लक्षण महसूस हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। अनुशंसित खुराक से अधिक न लें। पैरासिटामोल युक्त अन्य दवाओं के साथ इसका सेवन न करें। शराब का सेवन पूरी तरह बंद कर दें। यदि आपको उच्च रक्तचाप, हृदय रोग, मधुमेह, थायरॉइड, ग्लूकोमा, या यकृत/गुर्दे की बीमारी है, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से परामर्श लें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 procold tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from nasal congestion, headache, body ache, and mild fever associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Influenza-like illness","description":"Helps reduce fever, muscle pain, and nasal stuffiness during flu-like viral infections.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"May temporarily relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure in allergic rhinitis, though antihistamines are preferred.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Sinusitis","description":"Used as an adjunct to reduce nasal mucosal inflammation" class="semantic-link" title="Medicines for swelling">swelling and relieve sinus headache and facial pain.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Eustachian tube dysfunction","description":"Occasionally used off-label to reduce mucosal swelling and improve ear pressure equalization.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Barotrauma prevention","description":"Sometimes used before air travel to reduce nasal congestion and prevent ear barotrauma in susceptible individuals.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Common cold

Also treats: Influenza-like illness, Allergic rhinitis, Sinusitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Paracetamol (325mg) + Phenylephrine (5mg)
Brand Nameprocold tablet
ManufacturerConcept Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Keep away from direct sunlight 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 or milk to reduce stomach upset.
2
Do not exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours to avoid liver damage.
3
Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine.
4
Do not use for more than 5 days without consulting a doctor.
5
Monitor your blood pressure if you have hypertension.
6
Consult your doctor before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
7
Do not take other Paracetamol-containing products simultaneously.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Nasal congestion
This medicine is commonly used for this symptom.
Likely Use
✅
Headache
This medicine provides relief from headache.
Likely Use
✅
Mild fever
This medicine helps reduce fever.
Likely Use
❌
Severe chest pain
This medicine is not for chest pain; seek emergency care.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionParacetamol is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Phenylephrine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism, resulting in reduced systemic bioavailability. Food may delay the absorption of Paracetamol but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionParacetamol distributes widely into most body tissues, with a volume of distribution of approximately 0.9 L/kg. It crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk. Phenylephrine distributes into body tissues but its distribution is not well characterized due to extensive first-pass metabolism.
Protein BindingParacetamol is approximately 10-25% bound to plasma proteins. Phenylephrine protein binding is not well established from the available information.
MetabolismParacetamol is primarily metabolized in the liver by glucuronidation and sulfation to inactive metabolites. A small fraction is metabolized by cytochrome P450 2E1 to N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI), which is detoxified by glutathione. Phenylephrine undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the gut wall and liver, primarily by monoamine oxidase and sulfation.
Half-LifeParacetamol elimination half-life is approximately 2-3 hours in adults with normal liver function. Phenylephrine elimination half-life is approximately 2.5-3 hours.
ExcretionParacetamol metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Phenylephrine and its metabolites are excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityParacetamol oral bioavailability is approximately 80-100%. Phenylephrine oral bioavailability is low, approximately 38% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionParacetamol onset of action is within 30-60 minutes for pain and fever. Phenylephrine onset of nasal decongestion is within 15-30 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeParacetamol peak plasma concentration occurs within 30-60 minutes after oral administration. Phenylephrine peak plasma concentration occurs within 1-2 hours.
Duration of ActionParacetamol duration of action is approximately 4-6 hours. Phenylephrine duration of nasal decongestion is approximately 4-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with complementary mechanisms. Paracetamol acts centrally to reduce fever and pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the hypothalamus and spinal cord, and it may also modulate descending serotonergic pathways. Phenylephrine is a direct-acting sympathomimetic amine that selectively stimulates alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on vascular smooth muscle in the nasal mucosa, causing vasoconstriction, which reduces blood flow, edema, and nasal congestion. The combination provides symptomatic relief of cold-related pain, fever, and nasal stuffiness.

Mechanism Steps

1
Paracetamol central action: Paracetamol crosses the blood-brain barrier and inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, raising the pain threshold and resetting the hypothalamic thermostat to reduce fever.
2
Phenylephrine alpha-1 stimulation: Phenylephrine binds to alpha-1 adrenergic receptors on nasal blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction and reducing mucosal swelling and congestion.
3
Combined symptomatic relief: The analgesic and antipyretic effects of Paracetamol together with the decongestant action of Phenylephrine provide relief from multiple cold symptoms.

💡 How to Take procold tablet

Strength: Each tablet contains Paracetamol 325 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 food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
4Follow the prescribed dose and duration exactly.
5Do not exceed 4 tablets in 24 hours.
6If symptoms persist beyond 5 days, consult your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is one tablet taken orally every 6 to 8 hours as needed for symptoms, not exceeding 4 tablets in 24 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration without medical advice.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the cardiovascular effects of Phenylephrine and the hepatic effects of Paracetamol. Use with caution and under medical supervision. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentDose adjustment may be required in patients with renal impairment. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentDose adjustment and careful monitoring are required in patients with hepatic impairment. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Maximum Daily DoseMaximum daily dose is 4 tablets in 24 hours (1300 mg Paracetamol and 20 mg Phenylephrine). Do not exceed this limit.

Dosage Timeline

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

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals or milk
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of liver damage and cardiovascular effects.
Caffeine
Limit
May increase nervousness and insomnia.

⏰ 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 procold tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (1-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. If nausea persists, consult your doctor.
Headache (Common (1-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If severe or persistent, consult your doctor.
Dizziness (Common (1-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Nervousness (Common (1-10%))
Limit caffeine intake. If symptoms worsen, consult your doctor.
Increased blood pressure (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Monitor your blood pressure if you have hypertension. Consult your doctor if readings are consistently high.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Liver damage (hepatotoxicity) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
Severe hypertension (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe headache, chest pain, or blurred vision.
Cardiac arrhythmias (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you feel palpitations, irregular heartbeat, or fainting.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Blood disorders (thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis)
Consult a doctor if you notice unusual bleeding, bruising, or signs of infection.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Seek emergency care if you develop painful skin rash with blisters or peeling.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
Tricyclic antidepressants Major
Warfarin Major
Beta-blockers Moderate
Digoxin Moderate
Ergot alkaloids Moderate
Antacids Minor
Cholestyramine Minor
Caffeine Minor
Alcohol Major

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants
  • Warfarin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Beta-blockers
  • Digoxin
  • Ergot alkaloids

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be completely avoided while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the risk of Paracetamol-induced liver damage and may worsen the cardiovascular effects of Phenylephrine, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Severe hypertension","Severe coronary artery disease","Hyperthyroidism","Closed-angle glaucoma","Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)","Severe liver disease","Known hypersensitivity to Paracetamol or Phenylephrine"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Do not exceed the recommended dose of Paracetamol; overdose can cause severe liver damage.","Avoid using other Paracetamol-containing products concurrently.","Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or diabetes.","Phenylephrine may cause rebound nasal congestion if used for more than 3 days.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","Consult a doctor before use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in children under 12 years.","Do not use for more than 5 days without medical advice."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Paracetamol is excreted in breast milk in small amounts and is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. Phenylephrine may reduce breast milk production and is not preferred during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe liver damage due to Paracetamol and hypertensive crisis due to Phenylephrine. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment includes gastric lavage if within 1-2 hours, administration of N-acetylcysteine as an antidote for Paracetamol toxicity, and supportive care for cardiovascular effects. 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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use. Avoid taking other products containing Paracetamol while on this medicine to prevent accidental overdose and liver injury. Do not use this medicine for more than 3 days for fever or 5 days for pain without consulting a doctor. Inform your doctor if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, glaucoma, or liver or kidney disease. Avoid alcohol completely while taking this medicine. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy or drowsy. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using this medicine.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the cardiovascular effects of Phenylephrine and the hepatic effects of Paracetamol. Use with caution and under medical supervision. Dose adjustment may be required.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult your doctor before using this medicine if you are planning pregnancy. Paracetamol is generally considered safe, but Phenylephrine should be used with caution, especially in the first trimester.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your doctor before using this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with other medications or affect blood pressure and healing.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may interact with anesthetics or other medications used during dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
🥗
Get adequate rest to help your body recover from cold.
😴
Use a humidifier to ease nasal congestion.
💧
Avoid exposure to cold and damp environments.
🧘
Wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading infections.
🌞
Include vitamin C-rich foods in your diet.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise while taking this medicine, especially if you experience dizziness or increased heart rate. Light activities like walking are generally safe. Consult your doctor before resuming intense workouts.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink warm fluids like soups and herbal teas.
Include vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables.
Avoid cold and processed foods.
Stay well hydrated.
Limit caffeine intake.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or nervousness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. It is generally safe to continue desk work.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop this medicine if your symptoms improve or after 5 days of use, whichever is earlier. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it for a prolonged period without medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended. Prolonged use of Paracetamol can increase the risk of liver damage, especially with alcohol consumption. Phenylephrine used for more than 3 days can cause rebound nasal congestion. Regular monitoring of liver function and blood pressure may be required if used for extended periods under medical supervision.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps relieve nasal congestion naturally.

Evidence: Well-established
Saline nasal spray

Moisturizes nasal passages and reduces congestion.

Evidence: Well-established
Rest and hydration

Supports the body's natural recovery from cold.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you have a fever, consult your doctor before receiving any 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

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, continue your regular dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medications in your destination country.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old man with common cold and nasal congestion
He started this medicine as prescribed and noticed relief from nasal congestion and headache within 30 minutes. He took it with food to avoid stomach upset and limited his use to 3 days. He avoided alcohol and other cold medicines.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food and limiting duration improves tolerability and safety.
👤 A 50-year-old woman with hypertension and cold symptoms
She consulted her doctor before taking this medicine due to her high blood pressure. Her doctor advised monitoring blood pressure and using the medicine for only 2 days. She experienced mild dizziness but no serious effects.
💡 Lesson: Patients with hypertension should use this medicine with caution and under medical supervision.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts relieving symptoms within 30-60 minutes after oral administration.

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

A: Do not take other Paracetamol-containing products concurrently to avoid overdose. Consult your doctor before combining with other cold medicines.

Q: Is this medicine safe for high blood pressure patients?

A: Phenylephrine can increase blood pressure. Patients with hypertension should use this medicine with caution and under medical supervision.

🤔 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?

🛑 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 and cardiovascular effects.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It is not safe for people with certain conditions like severe hypertension, heart disease, or liver disease.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Paracetamol 325 mg + Phenylephrine 5 mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Paracetamol 325 mg + Phenylephrine 5 mg","uses":"Cold, nasal congestion, fever, body ache","notes":"Avoid in severe hypertension"},{"medicine":"Paracetamol + Pseudoephedrine","composition":"Paracetamol 500 mg + Pseudoephedrine 30 mg","uses":"Cold, nasal congestion, fever","notes":"Stronger decongestant, more cardiovascular effects"},{"medicine":"Paracetamol + Cetirizine","composition":"Paracetamol 500 mg + Cetirizine 5 mg","uses":"Cold, allergic rhinitis, fever","notes":"May cause drowsiness"}]

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