specold tablet - Paracetamol (500mg) + Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg) medicine

Specold Tablet: Complete Guide to Uses, Dosage, and Safety

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🏭 Ben Pharmaceuticals 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for individual components; combination supported by clinical practice.
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
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is specold tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of Paracetamol (500 mg) and Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2 mg) used to treat symptoms of common cold and allergic rhinitis, such as runny nose, sneezing, headache, and mild fever. It works by reducing pain and fever and blocking histamine to relieve allergy symptoms. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

  • Generic Name: Paracetamol (500mg) + Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg)
  • Manufacturer: Ben Pharmaceuticals
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 specold tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा पैरासिटामोल और क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट का संयोजन है, जिसका उपयोग सर्दी-जुकाम, एलर्जी राइनाइटिस, और अन्य ऊपरी श्वसन संक्रमणों के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना, सिरदर्द, और हल्का बुखार के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह दर्द और बुखार को कम करता है और एलर्जी के लक्षणों को नियंत्रित करता है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुँह सूखना, चक्कर आना, धुंधली दृष्टि, और जी मिचलाना शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया, यकृत क्षति, या रक्त विकार हो सकते हैं। यदि आपको सांस लेने में कठिनाई, चेहरे या गले में सूजन, या त्वचा का पीला पड़ना हो तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। अनुशंसित खुराक से अधिक न लें। इस दवा के साथ शराब का सेवन न करें। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आपको कैसे प्रभावित करती है, वाहन न चलाएं। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, स्तनपान करा रही हैं, या कोई अन्य दवा ले रही हैं तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। 7 दिनों से अधिक उपयोग न करें।

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

💊 specold tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Relieves symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, headache, and mild fever associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Reduces sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and itching of the nose or throat due to allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Sinusitis","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from sinus pressure, headache, and nasal congestion.","evidence":"Commonly used"},{"condition":"Pharyngitis","description":"Helps relieve sore throat pain and associated allergic symptoms.","evidence":"Commonly used"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Mild allergic reactions","description":"Sometimes used for relief of mild allergic skin reactions or itching, though not a first-line treatment.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Common cold and allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Sinusitis, Pharyngitis, Allergic conjunctivitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Paracetamol (500mg) + Chlorpheniramine Maleate (2mg)
Brand Namespecold tablet
ManufacturerBen Pharmaceuticals
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from 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
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
3
Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine.
4
Do not exceed the recommended dose of paracetamol; it can harm your liver.
5
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
6
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.
7
Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, or difficulty urinating.

🔍 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 helps relieve sneezing due to allergies.
Likely Use
✅
Headache
Paracetamol in this medicine helps relieve headache.
Likely Use
✅
Mild fever
Paracetamol reduces fever.
Likely Use
✅
Itchy eyes
Chlorpheniramine helps with allergic eye symptoms.
Likely Use
❌
Severe bacterial infection
This medicine does not treat bacterial infections; antibiotics are needed.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionParacetamol is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Chlorpheniramine is also well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Food may slightly delay the absorption of paracetamol but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionParacetamol distributes widely into most body tissues, with relatively low protein binding. Chlorpheniramine distributes into body tissues and crosses the blood-brain barrier, which contributes to its sedative effects.
Protein BindingParacetamol: Approximately 10-25% bound to plasma proteins. Chlorpheniramine: Approximately 70% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismParacetamol is primarily metabolized in the liver via conjugation with glucuronic acid and sulfate, and a small fraction via cytochrome P450 2E1 to a toxic intermediate (NAPQI) that is normally detoxified by glutathione. Chlorpheniramine is metabolized in the liver via cytochrome P450 enzymes, primarily CYP2D6.
Half-LifeParacetamol: 2-3 hours. Chlorpheniramine: 12-43 hours (variable).
ExcretionParacetamol metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Chlorpheniramine and its metabolites are excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityParacetamol: Approximately 80-100% (oral). Chlorpheniramine: Approximately 25-50% (oral, due to first-pass metabolism).
Onset of ActionParacetamol: 30-60 minutes. Chlorpheniramine: 30-60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimeParacetamol: 0.5-2 hours. Chlorpheniramine: 2-6 hours.
Duration of ActionParacetamol: 4-6 hours. Chlorpheniramine: 4-6 hours (immediate release).

How It Works

Paracetamol acts primarily in the central nervous system by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which reduces pain and fever. Chlorpheniramine Maleate is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. The combination provides both analgesic and antihistaminic effects.

Mechanism Steps

1
Paracetamol action: Paracetamol inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, leading to reduced pain perception and fever.
2
Chlorpheniramine action: Chlorpheniramine blocks histamine H1 receptors, preventing histamine from binding and causing allergic symptoms.
3
Combined effect: The combination provides relief from both pain/fever and allergic symptoms, making it useful for cold and allergy symptoms.

💡 How to Take specold tablet

Strength: Tablet: Paracetamol 500 mg + Chlorpheniramine Maleate 2 mg

1Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water.
2Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
4Take at the same times each day if prescribed regularly.
5Do not take more than the recommended dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose is 1 tablet every 6 to 8 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. Use for the shortest duration necessary.
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 and anticholinergic effects. Use with caution and lower doses may be appropriate. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult a doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose reduction or avoidance may be necessary. Consult a doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseParacetamol: 4000 mg (8 tablets of 500 mg) per day. Chlorpheniramine: 24 mg (12 tablets of 2 mg) per day. 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.

⏰ 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 specold 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, chew sugar-free gum, or use saliva substitutes. Consult if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid sudden movements.
Blurred vision (Uncommon (1-5%))
Usually temporary. Avoid driving if affected. Consult if persistent.
Nausea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing.
Liver damage (paracetamol overdose) (Rare with recommended doses)
Seek immediate medical help if you suspect overdose, even if you feel well. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, yellowing of skin/eyes.
Blood disorders (e.g., agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, fever, or sore throat to your doctor immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Photosensitivity
Avoid excessive sun exposure; use sunscreen.
Confusion or hallucinations
Consult doctor if these occur, especially in elderly.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
MAOIs Major
Alcohol Major
Benzodiazepines Moderate
Tricyclic antidepressants Moderate
Donepezil Moderate
Antacids Minor
Activated charcoal Minor
Caffeine Minor
Phenytoin Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Alcohol

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, sedatives)
  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., tricyclic antidepressants, atropine)
  • Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage from paracetamol and enhances the sedative effects of chlorpheniramine, which can 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 paracetamol, chlorpheniramine, or any component","Severe liver disease or severe active liver disease","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention (e.g., due to prostatic hypertrophy)","Severe cardiovascular disease","MAOI therapy within 14 days"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.","Do not exceed recommended dose of paracetamol; risk of liver damage.","Use with caution in elderly patients; increased risk of anticholinergic effects.","Consult doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.","Use with caution in patients with asthma, COPD, or sleep apnea.","May cause urinary retention in patients with prostatic hypertrophy."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Paracetamol is considered safe during breastfeeding. Chlorpheniramine may pass into breast milk and cause drowsiness in the infant. Consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of paracetamol can cause severe liver damage. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and yellowing of skin or eyes. Seek immediate medical attention even if you feel well. Treatment includes activated charcoal if within 1-2 hours, and acetylcysteine as an antidote. Chlorpheniramine overdose may cause severe drowsiness, confusion, tachycardia, and anticholinergic effects. Supportive care is provided.

⏰ 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 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 alcohol while taking this medicine as it can increase the risk of liver damage and enhance drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of chlorpheniramine. They may experience increased drowsiness, confusion, dry mouth, and urinary retention. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Consult a doctor for individualized dosing.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Paracetamol is generally considered safe, but chlorpheniramine should be used with caution during pregnancy.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

After surgery, use this medicine with caution as it may increase sedation and interfere with recovery. Consult your surgeon or anesthesiologist before use.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure, as it may cause dry mouth and drowsiness. It may also interact with anesthetics or sedatives used during dental work.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Get plenty of rest to help your body recover from cold or allergies.
🥗
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
😴
Use a humidifier to ease nasal congestion.
💧
Avoid allergens such as dust, pollen, and pet dander.
🧘
Wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading infections.
🌞
Avoid alcohol and sedatives while taking this medicine.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness and dizziness.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink warm fluids like soup and tea to soothe your throat.
Include vitamin C-rich foods to support immune function.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine in excess.
Eat light, easily digestible meals.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid tasks requiring mental alertness until you know how it affects you. It may also cause dry mouth, which can be uncomfortable during work.

🛑 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 regularly for a long time without consulting your doctor.

📅 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 high doses or alcohol consumption. Chlorpheniramine may cause tolerance and dependence with long-term use. Regular monitoring of liver function may be needed if used for extended periods.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Saline nasal irrigation

Can help relieve nasal congestion without medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Antihistamine nasal sprays

May be an alternative for allergic rhinitis with less sedation.

Evidence: Well-established
Steam inhalation

Helps loosen mucus and relieve congestion.

Evidence: Commonly used

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

This medicine does not interact with vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for vaccination, inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.

📦 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 at room temperature and protect from moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing schedule accordingly, but do not exceed the maximum daily dose. Check local 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 experienced sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes every spring. Her doctor prescribed this medicine. She took it as directed and found significant relief within an hour. She noted that it made her slightly drowsy, so she took it at bedtime.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine at bedtime can help manage drowsiness while providing relief from allergy symptoms.
👤 A 50-year-old man with common cold
He had a headache, mild fever, and nasal congestion. He took this medicine every 8 hours. His symptoms improved, but he accidentally took an extra dose and experienced nausea. He consulted his doctor who advised him to stick to the recommended dose.
💡 Lesson: Never exceed the recommended dose, as it can increase the risk of side effects, especially liver damage from paracetamol.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it.

Q: Can I take it on an empty stomach?

A: It is best to take it with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.

Q: Is it safe to take with other cold medicines?

A: Do not take with other medicines containing paracetamol or antihistamines without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to overdose.

Q: How many days can I take this medicine?

A: Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a 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 specold 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 extra doses for faster relief.
    Fact: Taking more than the recommended dose can cause serious liver damage and other side effects.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe to take with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage and drowsiness; avoid alcohol.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Paracetamol + Chlorpheniramine Maleate combination tablets from other manufacturers

Brand Alternatives

  • Specold Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Paracetamol 500 mg + Chlorpheniramine 2 mg","onset":"30-60 minutes","duration":"4-6 hours","sedation":"Moderate to high"},{"medicine":"Paracetamol + Cetirizine","composition":"Paracetamol 500 mg + Cetirizine 10 mg","onset":"30-60 minutes","duration":"12-24 hours","sedation":"Low to moderate"},{"medicine":"Paracetamol + Diphenhydramine","composition":"Paracetamol 500 mg + Diphenhydramine 25 mg","onset":"30-60 minutes","duration":"4-6 hours","sedation":"High"}]

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