Caffetin COLDmax

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Caffetin COLDmax

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Caffetin COLDmax

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredients Acetaminophen and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride
Form Film-coated tablet (Oral Dosage Form)
Pharmacological class Combination Analgesic and Decongestant
Common use Symptomatic relief of cold and flu discomforts
Origin Synthetic compound

Caffetin COLDmax: Identity, Classification, and Form

Caffetin COLDmax is an Over-the-Counter (OTC) fixed-dose combination product intended for the symptomatic relief of cold and flu manifestations. The medication is classified as a Combination Analgesic and Decongestant, reflecting its multi-symptom management approach. It is supplied as a film-coated tablet, an oral dosage form designed for systemic delivery of the active ingredients following ingestion. This combination design is recognized for simplifying the management of symptoms, offering a single pharmaceutical entity to address both generalized discomfort and nasal issues.

Core Composition and Pharmacological Components

The preparation contains two principal synthetic compounds: Acetaminophen (a para-aminophenol derivative) and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride (a sympathomimetic amine). Acetaminophen functions as a non-opioid analgesic and antipyretic agent. Phenylephrine Hydrochloride serves as a systemic decongestant. This merger of two distinct pharmacological classes is intended to address both pain/fever and nasal obstruction.

General Therapeutic Purpose of the Combination

The primary utility of the Caffetin COLDmax formulation is to deliver simultaneous symptomatic relief by leveraging its dual composition. The combined action addresses common cold and flu discomforts, such as fever, generalized body aches, and headache. Furthermore, the decongestant component acts to reduce the swelling associated with nasal congestion and sinus pressure. This established mode of relief provides a practical solution for managing the collective physical discomforts of an acute upper respiratory condition.

Regulatory References

  1. Acetaminophen Label (DailyMed)

What side effects are possible with Caffetin COLDmax?

Official Safety Profile and Adverse Reactions

The safety profile for this combination medicine is derived from government regulatory documents, which classify adverse reactions based on their potential frequency and the body system affected.

Common and Systemic Reactions

Adverse reactions classified as Common in regulatory labeling include effects such as headache, dizziness, insomnia (sleep problems), nervousness, and nausea. These effects are often grouped under Nervous System Disorders or Gastrointestinal Disorders. The sympathomimetic component may also be associated with Vascular Disorders, specifically the occurrence of increased blood pressure (hypertension), and Cardiac Disorders, such as tachycardia (fast heartbeat).

System-Organ Class Example Documented Effect
Nervous System Disorders Insomnia, Dizziness
Vascular Disorders Increased Blood Pressure
Skin Disorders Rash, Hives

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Official regulatory sources document the potential for serious adverse reactions. For the acetaminophen component, this primarily includes the risk of acute liver failure (hepatotoxicity), particularly when the maximum dose is exceeded or with prolonged use. Rare but serious Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs), such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have also been reported. The label also documents the risk of a hypertensive crisis if phenylephrine is co-administered with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs).

Safety constraints noted in regulatory documents include restrictions for patients with pre-existing conditions. Caution or contraindication is advised for individuals with severe coronary artery disease, uncontrolled severe hypertension, or severe hepatic impairment. Furthermore, older adults are recognized in labeling as being more susceptible to certain central nervous system and cardiovascular adverse effects.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Overdose involving this combination product is defined by the toxicological risks associated with its active components, Acetaminophen and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride. Immediate medical attention must be sought or a Poison Control Center contacted right away if there is any suspicion of having taken more than the recommended dose, even if no signs or symptoms are immediately noticeable. Quick action is critical due to the potential for severe, life-threatening outcomes.

Overdose manifestations are primarily characterized by the effects of the individual components. Acetaminophen overdose may initially present with nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain; however, the major risk is delayed acute liver failure, which can progress to hepatic coma and death. Increased risk for severe hepatotoxicity is noted in regulatory documents for patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or chronic alcoholism.

Phenylephrine overdose, resulting from excessive sympathetic stimulation, may lead to immediate signs such as severe hypertension, irregular heartbeat (ventricular arrhythmias), headaches, and tremor. Severe outcomes such as hypertensive crisis are documented.

The specific antidote for Acetaminophen toxicity, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), is required for treatment to prevent or minimize hepatic injury. Supportive measures, including continuous cardiac monitoring and management of blood pressure and serum Acetaminophen levels, are necessary as described in official regulatory documents.

Therapeutic Uses of Caffetin COLDmax

Caffetin COLDmax is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed for individuals experiencing acute episodes of the common cold or influenza. The components are intended for symptomatic relief, focusing on managing symptoms across two main therapeutic areas: systemic discomfort and nasal obstruction.

Relief for Systemic Pain and Elevated Body Temperature

This medication is generally considered relevant for easing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, specifically managing mild to moderate pain across the body, including headache and generalized body aches, while also supporting the reduction of fever. It provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden, contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.

Addressing Nasal Congestion and Sinus Discomfort

The formulation is applied in addressing symptoms related to physical discomfort in the upper respiratory tract. It assists with reducing swelling in the nasal passages, which is relevant for easing nasal congestion (stuffy nose) and the resulting feeling of sinus pressure or fullness.

The core benefit is to provide support that helps ease the overall symptom burden. This therapeutic approach is commonly summarized as:

“The combination of analgesia and decongestion supports patients during difficult episodes by easing distress and contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.”

Quick Fact: Symptom Management Domains
Pain/Fever: Helps manage mild to moderate aches and supports fever reduction.
Nasal Blockage: Applied to address stuffy nose and sinus pressure.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH DailyMed Drug Label for Acetaminophen/Phenylephrine

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who can and cannot use Caffetin COLDmax — official regulatory information

Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label):

  • Adults and adolescents who are generally healthy.

Populations for whom use is contraindicated:

  • Patients with severe hypertension or severe coronary artery disease.
  • Patients with severe hepatic impairment or severe renal failure.
  • Patients with hyperthyroidism, pheochromocytoma, or closed-angle glaucoma.
  • Patients currently receiving or who have taken a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) within the last 14 days.
  • Individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Acetaminophen, Phenylephrine, or any excipients.

Age-related eligibility rules:

  • Children under 12 years of age: Use is formally contraindicated or not recommended.
  • Adults and Adolescents (12 years and older): Use is generally permitted.
  • Older Adults (Geriatric): Use requires caution due to increased sensitivity to the effects of Phenylephrine.

Condition-specific eligibility rules:

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use is generally contraindicated or not recommended.
  • Conditional Use: Patients with mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment, diabetes mellitus, or non-severe cardiovascular conditions are populations for whom use is permitted only with caution.

Connection to the Overall Eligibility Profile

Official regulatory documents define who can and cannot use Caffetin COLDmax by establishing absolute contraindications based on specific pre-existing severe cardiovascular and metabolic conditions or the concurrent use of MAOIs. Furthermore, eligibility is restricted by age, prohibiting use below 12 years, and by physiological status, formally classifying use in pregnant and breastfeeding women as contraindicated or not recommended.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section details the officially documented interaction patterns for Caffetin COLDmax (Acetaminophen and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride), based strictly on government regulatory documents.


Key Regulatory Constraints

Category Official Interaction Statement
Contraindicated Combinations Use is prohibited with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), which are certain drugs for depression or Parkinson’s disease. Use with other products containing Acetaminophen is also prohibited due to the risk of accumulation. Co-administration with other Sympathomimetic Amines is advised against.
Timing-Based Rules Administration must be separated from MAOIs by a period of 14 days after discontinuation of the MAOI drug.
Pharmacodynamic Risk Concomitant use with Antihypertensives may reduce the efficacy of the antihypertensive agent. Use with Tricyclic Antidepressants or Cardiac Glycosides is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular effects.
Exposure Modification A specific drug-drug interaction is documented: the co-administration of the two active components results in increased systemic exposure (bioavailability) of Phenylephrine.
Substance Restriction Alcohol consumption of three or more drinks daily significantly increases the potential for Acetaminophen-related hepatotoxicity.

Official Interaction Structure Summary

The interaction profile is primarily defined by the absolute prohibition of co-administration with MAOIs and other acetaminophen-containing products due to severe risk classifications. The regulatory status documents that the combination itself alters exposure, specifically resulting in increased phenylephrine levels. The profile requires caution for use alongside Antihypertensives and notes that individuals with pre-existing high blood pressure or heart disease may be more vulnerable to the effects of the increased phenylephrine exposure. The structure of restrictions also includes mandatory timing separation for MAOI use and a constraint regarding chronic, heavy alcohol use.

Mechanism of Action

Central Modulation of Pain and Thermoregulation

This domain involves Acetaminophen's targeted action within the Central Nervous System (CNS), primarily by inhibiting certain Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and reducing the synthesis of Prostaglandins ( PGE2). This molecular action resets the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center, which leads to increased heat dissipation and a restoration of the physiological thermal set point, and simultaneously contributes to the elevation of the central nociceptive threshold.


Localized alpha1-Adrenergic Vascular Stimulation

This mechanism is driven by Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, which acts as an agonist on alpha1-adrenergic receptors located on the smooth muscle of blood vessels in the nasal and sinus mucosa. This direct sympathetic vascular stimulation initiates a cascade that leads to local vasoconstriction, a physiological change that reduces the localized volume of blood and tissue fluid in the nasal mucosa, leading to a mechanical reduction in mucosal tissue volume.


Dual Complementary Physiological Action

  1. The combined effect arises from the simultaneous engagement of these two distinct mechanistic domains: one acting centrally to regulate systemic thermal/nociceptive processes, and the other acting peripherally to adjust localized vascular tone. This complementary action independently modulates systemic thermal/nociceptive regulation and localized vascular tone.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Caffetin COLDmax

This section details the high-level administration and dosing principles for the Acetaminophen and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride combination.


Administration Guidelines

Instruction Entity Statement
Route of Administration The medication is intended for oral use.
Standard Single Dose One sachet (powder for oral solution) containing 1000 mg Acetaminophen and 12.2 mg Phenylephrine Hydrochloride.
Minimum Dosing Interval Doses must be separated by an interval of 4 to 6 hours.
Maximum Daily Dose Do not exceed 4 sachets over any 24-hour period.

Preparation and Use Context

Caffetin COLDmax powder must be prepared immediately before ingestion. The full contents of one sachet are dissolved in a cup of warm (not boiling) water. The resulting solution may be sweetened if desired. The dosing schedule is as-needed (intermittent use) and is for short-term use only to manage acute symptoms. Should symptoms worsen or persist beyond a specified short duration, continuation of use should be ceased.

Population-Specific Rules

Use of this product is not approved for pediatric patients under 16 years of age. Adolescents 16 years and older follow the adult regimen. No specific dose adjustment is required for older adults when using this combination product. These administration guidelines describe the protocol for preparation and intake.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Caffetin COLDmax: Overview of Clinical Evidence

The formulation of Caffetin COLDmax typically includes two active ingredients: Paracetamol (also known as Acetaminophen) and Phenylephrine hydrochloride. Clinical research supports the use of these components individually and in combination for the symptomatic management of the common cold and influenza-like illnesses.

Evidence for Component Activity

  • Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): Numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) confirm the role of paracetamol as an analgesic and antipyretic agent. In studies involving participants with upper respiratory tract infections, paracetamol administration was associated with a reduction in fever and a mitigation of minor aches and pains (such as headache and muscle discomfort) when compared to placebo. It addresses the systemic symptoms often associated with colds.

  • Phenylephrine: This ingredient is classified as a sympathomimetic amine with decongestant properties. Clinical evidence indicates that phenylephrine, when administered orally, may contribute to the temporary relief of nasal and sinus congestion. Its action is thought to result in the constriction of blood vessels in the nasal passages, which can lessen swelling and facilitate breathing.

Combination Studies

While specific, dedicated clinical trials for a fixed combination of paracetamol and phenylephrine are numerous across different regulatory bodies, the general scientific consensus supports the co-administration of agents that address different symptom pathways. Combination products are typically assessed in double-blind, placebo-controlled environments against criteria such as total symptom scores or individual symptom severity (e.g., headache, fever, nasal congestion) over a short-term period. These studies observe the effect of the multi-component formulation on the overall experience of cold and flu symptoms in adult populations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Caffetin COLDmax (FAQ)

Q: Why do some people report feeling nervous or jittery after taking this medicine?

Official product information lists nervousness and insomnia (difficulty sleeping) as possible side effects. These reactions are associated with the phenylephrine component, which has sympathomimetic (stimulating) effects.

Q: What does the official documentation say about the frequency of stomach upset with Caffetin COLDmax?

The regulatory documentation states that nausea (feeling sick) is a potential side effect classified under Gastrointestinal Disorders. General guidance for the medicine's active ingredients sometimes suggests that separating intake from food, or taking it with food, may be considered.

Q: What are the signs of a hypersensitivity reaction as described in the official documents?

Regulatory labels outline potential signs of an allergic reaction. These may include the development of a rash or hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If any signs of hypersensitivity are observed, official guidance describes the need to discontinue use.

Q: What is the expected period of support or relief after taking a dose?

The dosing schedule requires a period of 4 to 6 hours between doses, which is the minimum recommended interval before the next dose may be considered. Pharmacokinetic data indicates that the active ingredients generally reach their maximum concentration in the body within 10 to 60 minutes of being taken.

Q: Has Caffetin COLDmax been the subject of recent clinical studies?

The symptomatic use of the product is supported by clinical studies involving its active components and combination products. However, the regulatory documentation does not typically specify the exact dates or recency of all underlying clinical trials that confirm its efficacy.

Q: Does the medicine contain ingredients that might cause issues for individuals with allergies to certain dyes or fillers?

Regulatory documents list all excipients (non-active ingredients) in the product, such as sucrose and aspartame. The presence of these excipients requires that individuals with known hypersensitivities review the full list of ingredients.

Q: Is experiencing drowsiness or tiredness a known possibility when taking Caffetin COLDmax?

Official labeling includes Central Nervous System (CNS) effects like dizziness and insomnia (difficulty sleeping). While the product is not typically associated with specific warnings for drowsiness, official information indicates that caution may be necessary if CNS side effects are experienced.

Q: Does Caffetin COLDmax interact with any common blood thinning medicines?

Official warnings advise caution regarding blood thinning medicines. The regulatory label notes the importance of consulting a healthcare professional before use if the person is taking drugs like warfarin, due to potential interactions with the acetaminophen component.

Q: How quickly do the effects of Caffetin COLDmax usually start for most people?

Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that the maximum concentration of the active ingredients in the body is generally reached within 10 to 60 minutes after taking the medicine. This time frame may align with the onset of symptomatic relief.

Q: What is the described role of caffeine in a cold and flu medicine formulation?

The official product composition for Caffetin COLDmax does not list caffeine as an active ingredient. The product only contains the two primary active components: Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) and Phenylephrine Hydrochloride.

Q: What official guidance exists about driving or operating machinery while using Caffetin COLDmax?

Official guidance addresses the need for caution with driving or operating machinery. This is necessary if the user experiences any side effects, such as dizziness or insomnia, that could potentially impair their ability to perform these tasks safely.

How should Caffetin COLDmax be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Caffetin COLDmax?

The storage and disposal of Caffetin COLDmax are governed by regulatory requirements to ensure product quality and environmental safety.

Storage Requirements

The medicine must be stored at a temperature below 25°C and kept out of the reach of children. The tablets should not be removed from the original blister packaging in advance. Do not use the product after the expiry date (EXP) printed on the carton and blister, as this date dictates the shelf-life of the medication.

Disposal Instructions

Official guidelines state that medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. To discard unused or expired Caffetin COLDmax, the user is instructed to ask a pharmacist for the proper method of disposal, ensuring compliance with local environmental regulations.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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