ADOL COLD Tablets (Caplets)

What is ADOL COLD

ADOL COLD is a combination over-the-counter (OTC) medication formulated to relieve symptoms associated with the common cold, flu, and upper respiratory tract infections. Each caplet contains three active ingredients:

• Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): a widely used analgesic and antipyretic that reduces fever and alleviates pain such as headaches, muscle aches, and sore throat.
• Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide: a cough suppressant that acts on the cough center in the brain to reduce the urge to cough, particularly effective for dry, non-productive coughs.
• Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride: a nasal decongestant that shrinks swollen nasal mucous membranes, easing nasal congestion and sinus pressure.

This medication is typically used to treat:

• Runny or blocked nose
• Dry cough
• Headache and minor body aches
• Sore throat
• Fever

ADOL COLD caplets are ideal for adults and children above 12 years, offering multi-symptom relief in a convenient oral tablet format.

How to use ADOL COLD

To ensure effective symptom relief and reduce the risk of side effects, use ADOL COLD exactly as directed on the package or by your healthcare provider:

• Recommended age group: Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.
• Dosage: Take 1 caplet every 6 hours as needed.
• Maximum dose: Do not exceed 4 caplets in 24 hours.
• Method of administration: Swallow caplets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew.
• Duration of use: Use for no more than 5 consecutive days unless advised by a doctor.

Important usage tips:

• Take with or without food, though taking it with food may reduce the chance of stomach upset.
• Avoid using with other medications containing paracetamol, pseudoephedrine, or dextromethorphan.
• Do not take before driving or operating heavy machinery, as drowsiness may occur in some individuals.

If symptoms persist beyond 5 days or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.

Mode of Action ADOL COLD

ADOL COLD works through the synergistic action of its three components:

• Paracetamol:
  • Inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) in the brain.
  • Reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins, substances that cause pain and fever.
  • Acts centrally to provide antipyretic (fever-reducing) and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects.
• Dextromethorphan HBr:
  • Acts on the medullary cough center to elevate the threshold for coughing.
  • Non-narcotic and does not have significant sedative or addictive properties at therapeutic doses.
  • Most effective for treating dry, irritating, non-productive coughs.
• Pseudoephedrine HCl:
  • Stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa.
  • Leads to vasoconstriction, reducing swelling and nasal congestion.
  • Also has mild beta-adrenergic stimulant effects that may raise blood pressure slightly.

Together, these mechanisms help alleviate multiple symptoms of colds and upper respiratory tract infections, including pain, fever, congestion, and cough.

ADOL COLD Interactions ADOL COLD

ADOL COLD may interact with other medications, supplements, or substances. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining it with other therapies.

• With Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Concurrent use with MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine) can lead to hypertensive crises or serotonin syndrome.
• With Antidepressants: Especially SSRIs and tricyclics; may increase risk of serotonin syndrome with dextromethorphan.
• With Other Sympathomimetics: Pseudoephedrine may enhance cardiovascular effects (e.g., palpitations, hypertension).
• With Antihypertensives: Pseudoephedrine can reduce the effectiveness of medications used to manage high blood pressure.
• With Other Paracetamol-containing products: Increases the risk of hepatotoxicity. Do not combine without medical advice.
• With Alcohol: May enhance central nervous system depression caused by dextromethorphan and increase liver toxicity risk with paracetamol.

Always read labels of concurrent medications carefully to avoid duplicate ingredients, and inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you’re taking.

Dosage of ADOL COLD

The dosage of ADOL COLD must be followed precisely to avoid overdose or adverse effects:

• Adults and children over 12 years: 1 caplet every 6 hours as needed.
• Maximum dose: Do not take more than 4 caplets in 24 hours.
• Children under 12 years: Not recommended due to the risk of adverse reactions and lack of sufficient dosing guidelines.
• Elderly patients: Use with caution. Start at the lowest effective dose and monitor for increased sensitivity.
• Patients with liver or kidney disease: Use only under medical supervision. Dosage adjustments may be necessary.

In case of overdose, particularly with paracetamol, seek immediate medical attention, even if no symptoms are present initially, as liver damage can occur within 24-48 hours.

Possible side effects of ADOL COLD

Like all medications, ADOL COLD may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and transient.

• Common side effects:
  • Drowsiness or dizziness
  • Nausea or stomach upset
  • Dry mouth or throat
  • Headache
• Less common side effects:
  • Palpitations
  • Insomnia or nervousness (due to pseudoephedrine)
  • Constipation
• Serious but rare side effects:
  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, shortness of breath)
  • Liver damage (with overdose or long-term use of paracetamol)
  • Serotonin syndrome (if taken with other serotonergic drugs)
  • Increased blood pressure or heart rate

If any severe or unusual side effects occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

ADOL COLD Contraindications ADOL COLD

ADOL COLD is not suitable for everyone. It is contraindicated in the following cases:

• Hypersensitivity: Known allergy to paracetamol, dextromethorphan, pseudoephedrine, or any excipient in the formulation.
• Use of MAO Inhibitors: Do not use if taking or within 14 days of stopping MAOI medications due to the risk of serious interactions.
• Severe hypertension or heart disease: Pseudoephedrine can increase blood pressure and exacerbate heart conditions.
• Severe liver impairment: Increased risk of toxicity from paracetamol.
• Children under 12 years: Safety and effectiveness have not been established.
• Glaucoma or urinary retention: Pseudoephedrine may worsen these conditions.

Always consult a doctor before starting this medication if you have chronic medical conditions or are on long-term treatment for other illnesses.

Storage of ADOL COLD

Proper storage of ADOL COLD ensures its effectiveness and safety until the expiration date.

• Storage temperature: Keep in a cool, dry place below 25°C (77°F).
• Avoid moisture: Do not store in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink.
• Keep out of direct sunlight: Exposure to light and heat can degrade the active ingredients.
• Original packaging: Store in the original blister pack to protect from moisture and damage.
• Keep out of reach of children: Accidental ingestion by children can be dangerous.
• Disposal: Do not use expired medication. Return unused or expired medicine to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

Always check the expiry date on the packaging and do not use the product if it has passed the stated expiration.