Антикатарал

Quick links to important sections

Антикатарал

Selected form

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Антикатарал

Quick Facts

Active Ingredients Primary Class Key Actions
Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) Analgesic/Antipyretic Pain and fever reduction
Chlorphenamine Maleate Antihistamine Relieves allergy symptoms
Caffeine Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulant Reduces fatigue, enhances pain relief
Phenylephrine Hydrochloride Decongestant Reduces nasal congestion

Антикатарал is a combination medication formulated to provide symptomatic relief for the common cold, influenza (flu), and allergic rhinitis. It contains four active pharmaceutical ingredients, each addressing distinct symptoms associated with these conditions. The drug is generally indicated for relieving fever, headache, minor body aches, nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing.

Active Component Function

The four main components work synergistically:

  • Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): Acts as a pain reliever (analgesic) and fever reducer (antipyretic). Its mechanism involves inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central nervous system, which helps to decrease the body's pain and temperature response.
  • Chlorphenamine Maleate: This is a first-generation antihistamine that helps control allergy symptoms by blocking the effects of histamine. This action reduces symptoms like sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, and runny nose.
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride: A decongestant that helps relieve a stuffy nose by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages, which reduces swelling and mucus production.
  • Caffeine: Functions as a mild CNS stimulant. It is included to counteract the drowsiness caused by chlorphenamine and is also known to enhance the analgesic (pain-relieving) effect of paracetamol.

As a multi-symptom product, the use of Антикатарал should be managed carefully to avoid excessive intake of any single active ingredient, particularly paracetamol, to prevent potential toxicity.

Regulatory References

  1. Paracetamol Mechanism of Action - NCBI Bookshelf
  2. Phenylephrine HCl in Combination Product SmPC (Ghana FDA)

What side effects are possible with Антикатарал?

Possible side effects and safety information

The officially documented safety profile for Антикатарал, a four-component medication, is categorized according to its effects on major organ systems and the frequency with which these effects are observed, as stated in regulatory prescribing information.

Adverse Reaction Classifications

The most frequent adverse reactions are related to the Central Nervous System (CNS) due to the combined action of its sedative and stimulant components. Regulatory documents classify drowsiness and somnolence as very common effects. Common adverse reactions typically include headache, dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, and disturbances in attention [FDA Ghana/SmPC]. Reactions with unknown frequency, often from post-marketing reports, can involve allergic reactions, palpitations, and increased blood pressure [EFDA/SmPC].

System-Organ Class Officially Documented Effects
Nervous/Psychiatric Drowsiness, Restlessness, Insomnia, Dizziness, Anxiety
Cardiovascular Tachycardia, Palpitations, Hypertension
Gastrointestinal Nausea, Vomiting, Dry mouth
Hepatobiliary Hepatic dysfunction, Severe liver damage

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

The primary serious adverse risk documented in official labeling is fatal hepatotoxicity (severe liver damage), which is associated with the Paracetamol component, particularly when the maximum daily dose is exceeded. Other serious documented risks include rare, severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) [Rwanda FDA/SmPC].

Regulatory documents emphasize that the medicine is restricted from use in individuals with severe hepatic impairment. Furthermore, safety notes for special populations include an increased susceptibility for older adults to certain neurological effects and the necessity of caution in patients with pre-existing hypertension due to the decongestant and caffeine components [EFDA/SmPC]. Safety documentation also advises against consuming excessive dietary caffeine to limit cumulative stimulation risks.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The overdose profile for Антикатарал is primarily defined by the risks associated with its four components, most critically the potential for severe, delayed hepatotoxicity from Paracetamol. Initial, often non-specific, manifestations may include nausea, vomiting, lethargy, and abdominal pain. More severe acute presentations can involve central nervous system effects, such as intense drowsiness, agitation, seizures, and hyperpyrexia, along with cardiovascular issues like tachycardia, hypertension, and cardiac arrhythmias.

Due to the critical, delayed nature of Paracetamol toxicity, which can lead to severe hepatocellular necrosis and renal tubular necrosis, regulatory documents mandate that immediate medical attention or hospitalization is required following any known or suspected overdose. This action must be taken even if the individual appears to be asymptomatic upon initial assessment, necessitating an immediate call to emergency services or a Poison Control Center.

The specific antidote for Paracetamol poisoning, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), is required for treatment and must be administered promptly to maximize its efficacy. Monitoring requires measurement of plasma-paracetamol concentration, and supportive care is necessary to manage acute CNS and cardiovascular effects. Individuals with conditions such as chronic alcoholism or malnutrition are noted in regulatory information as having an increased risk for severe hepatotoxicity.

Therapeutic Uses of Антикатарал

What Антикатарал treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Easing Symptoms of Systemic Discomfort

The medication is generally used to help manage the full symptomatic burden associated with acute episodes of the common cold, flu, and certain allergic states. As a core component, phenylephrine is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, primarily focusing on symptomatic relief for distressing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning. The product is relevant for easing systemic discomfort and managing fever, managing nasal and sinus congestion, and supporting relief from allergic irritation.

This therapeutic area assists with the management of symptoms related to physical discomfort and systemic imbalance, such as headache, body aches, and fever. The medication is relevant in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms and contributes to easing the overall symptom load during symptomatic periods, helping patients cope more steadily.

Quick Fact: Relief for Multi-Symptom Discomfort The medication is often applied in contexts where short-term symptomatic assistance is needed for multiple co-occurring manifestations of the common cold or flu. It offers symptomatic relief that helps ease the overall symptom burden, assisting with maintaining functional stability when symptoms are more noticeable.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview of Phenylephrine

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Антикатарал?

Regulatory documents define specific population eligibility rules for this multi-component medicine, based on age, physiological status, and pre-existing medical conditions.

Eligibility Status Classification

Status Population or Condition Official Regulatory Classification
Allowed Use Adults and Adolescents 12 years of age and older Permitted (Standard Conditions)
Prohibited Use Children younger than 12 years Contraindicated
Not Recommended Pregnancy and Lactation Not Recommended

Absolute Contraindications

Use is formally contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any component. This medicine must not be used by individuals with severe hypertension, severe cardiovascular disease, severe hepatic (liver) impairment, severe renal (kidney) impairment, closed-angle glaucoma, phaeochromocytoma, or hyperthyroidism. Additionally, use is prohibited in patients currently taking Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or other products containing paracetamol or sympathomimetic decongestants.

Conditional Use

Regulatory labeling requires caution when used by elderly/geriatric patients and individuals with conditions such as Diabetes Mellitus, Prostatic Hypertrophy, or non-severe hepatic or renal dysfunction.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

This product contains paracetamol, a sedating antihistamine (chlorphenamine maleate), and caffeine. The potential for drug interactions is related to the individual components.

Potential Drug Interactions

Interacting Product Category Potential Effect Interaction Mechanism
Other Paracetamol-Containing Products Increased risk of liver damage (hepatotoxicity). Additive toxic effects.
Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) Increased effect of the blood thinner, raising bleeding risk. Potential inhibition of anticoagulant metabolism.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Intensified effects of the antihistamine component. Increased anticholinergic activity.
Alcohol / CNS Depressants Increased central nervous system (CNS) depression (e.g., drowsiness, sedation). Additive CNS depressant effects.
Hepatotoxic Drugs / Enzyme Inducers Increased risk of paracetamol toxicity. Accelerated metabolism of paracetamol.

Interaction-Related Restrictions and Conditions

It is strongly advised to avoid concurrent use of any other medications that contain paracetamol to prevent overdose and severe liver injury. Due to the presence of chlorphenamine maleate, this product should not be used in individuals taking Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors, or within 14 days of discontinuing such treatment. Patients on oral anticoagulants should have their International Normalized Ratio (INR) closely monitored by a healthcare provider. Consumption of alcohol or excessive intake of dietary caffeine (e.g., coffee, tea) must be limited or avoided while taking this combination product to mitigate risks of liver damage and CNS or cardiac overstimulation, respectively.

Mechanism of Action

Central Regulation of Fever and Pain Threshold

This mechanism primarily involves the inhibition of Central Cyclooxygenase (COX) activity by Paracetamol, which reduces the synthesis of Prostaglandin E2 ( PGE2) in the hypothalamus, thereby adjusting the hypothalamic set point. This action, coupled with the modulation of nociceptive pathways and the Adenosine antagonism by Caffeine, results in a physiological elevation of the nociceptive threshold.


Autonomic and Inflammatory Modulation of Mucosal Function

The drug targets the Alpha-1 (alpha1) Adrenergic Receptors via Phenylephrine, initiating a vasoconstriction cascade that decreases mucosal tissue volume. Simultaneously, Chlorphenamine acts as a competitive antagonist at Histamine H1 Receptors, blocking histamine-induced increases in capillary permeability and glandular hypersecretion, influencing systemic fluid dynamics.


Neurochemical Counterbalance for CNS Arousal

Caffeine's mechanism involves non-selective antagonism of Adenosine Receptors, removing an inhibitory signal that normally depresses CNS activity. This results in enhanced neuronal excitability and the release of stimulating neurotransmitters, which influences the CNS activity patterns resulting from Chlorphenamine's H1 and secondary anticholinergic blockade.

Dosage and Administration Information

The usage of Антикатарал is governed by strict administration guidelines detailed in regulatory documents to ensure appropriate short-term relief. The medicine is authorized solely for oral administration as a solid dosage form (tablet or capsule). This structured approach mandates fixed dosing intervals and an absolute ceiling on the daily amount to protect against the risks associated with excessive intake of combination ingredients, primarily Paracetamol.


Administration Protocol

Feature Official Administration Guideline
Route and Form Oral administration only; swallowed whole with water.
Standard Dosing The standard unit dose is typically one to two tablets for adults and adolescents 12 years and over.
Frequency Dosing is administered as-needed for symptoms, with a required minimum interval of 4 to 6 hours between successive doses.
Maximum Daily Limit The total quantity of active ingredients taken in 24 hours must not exceed the equivalent of 4000 mg of Paracetamol from all sources.

Usage Constraints

The official use protocol mandates that Антикатарал is restricted to short-term symptomatic use, generally not to exceed 3 to 7 consecutive days. The administration can occur with or without food. A critical procedural constraint is the absolute prohibition on concurrent use with any other products containing Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) or other similar decongestant or antihistamine components. Use in children under 12 years of age is generally restricted or requires specific guidance from a healthcare professional, as stated in official labeling.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Recent Clinical Evidence Summary

Clinical research has focused on the efficacy of Антикатарал (a combination product containing Paracetamol/Acetaminophen) in the symptomatic management of mild to moderate acute pain and fever, often associated with colds and influenza.


Analgesic and Antipyretic Efficacy

Randomized, controlled trials have evaluated the core analgesic component (Paracetamol) and found that it is associated with a reduction in pain scores in conditions such as headaches and post-operative pain. Measurable changes in fever and pain intensity have typically been reported within 30 to 60 minutes of oral administration in studied populations. Evidence suggests that for mild to moderate acute pain, Paracetamol is a widely utilized first-line analgesic option.


Comparative Research

Comparative studies often investigate the combination of its active ingredients rather than the drug alone. Research comparing Paracetamol to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for acute pain found comparable efficacy in reducing pain intensity, with the selection between the two agents often influenced by specific patient risk factors and comorbidities.


Administration and Formulation

Research has explored different formulations to enhance drug absorption. Studies involving fast-dissolving or effervescent formulations of the Paracetamol component suggest they result in faster drug absorption compared to conventional tablets. This pharmacokinetic observation correlates with a more rapid onset of pain relief reported in associated clinical trials. The overall body of evidence supports the role of the product's primary analgesic component as a therapeutic option for its indicated uses.

Key Studies & References

  1. Clinical practice guideline for the management of fever and pain in children and adults (relevant section on use in acute symptoms)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Антикатарал (FAQ)

Q: Why is Антикатарал prescribed to some people and not others?

Official regulatory documents indicate that this product is a combination medicine containing four active components designed for multi-symptom relief from cold and flu. Its authorized use is tied to the management of multiple symptoms simultaneously. Selection is also restricted by specific contraindications and precautionary use conditions that are detailed in the official product labeling, which determines who can and cannot use the medicine.

Q: What is the difference between a common side effect and a rare one for Антикатарал?

Regulatory documents classify side effects by how often they were reported in clinical studies or post-marketing surveillance to help estimate the likelihood of occurrence. For example, 'Very Common' represents the highest frequency observed in studies, while 'Rare' indicates a much lower reported incidence. 'Unknown frequency' is used when the rate cannot be reliably estimated from the available data.

Q: Why do some people experience stomach upset with Антикатарал?

Gastrointestinal effects like nausea, vomiting, or dry mouth are listed as common side effects of the medicine in official safety information. This occurs because of the actions of the components on the body.

Q: What kind of allergic reactions are listed in the official documents for Антикатарал?

Official safety warnings state that allergic reactions are possible with this medication. These reactions may include signs such as swelling of the face, mouth, and throat, difficulty breathing, itching, or rash. Official documents categorize the most severe reactions as medical emergencies.

Q: What foods or drinks are specifically listed to avoid while taking Антикатарал?

Official regulatory text advises caution regarding the use of other products that may affect the central nervous system. Specifically, official regulatory text states that consumption of alcohol and excessive dietary caffeine must be limited or avoided while using this medicine, due to the presence of both an antihistamine and a stimulant component.

Q: How is Антикатарал different from a standard cold and flu medicine?

This product is a combination medicine containing four active ingredients (a pain reliever, an antihistamine, a decongestant, and a stimulant). This combination is formulated to address multiple symptoms (pain, fever, allergy, congestion, and fatigue) using all four active components.

Q: Why do some people confuse Антикатарал with allergy medication?

The confusion may stem from the inclusion of Chlorphenamine Maleate, which is an antihistamine. This component is specifically included in the product to relieve allergy-related cold and flu symptoms like a runny nose and sneezing.

Q: Does Антикатарал contain pseudoephedrine or similar decongestants?

This medicine does not contain pseudoephedrine. It contains Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, which is listed as the decongestant component used to help relieve nasal stuffiness and congestion.

Q: Is there any published research on the long-term use of Антикатарал?

Official documents restrict the use of this product to short-term symptomatic use, generally not to exceed 3 to 7 consecutive days. This reflects that clinical evidence primarily supports the product's use for acute pain and fever relief, and long-term use is not within the scope of the labeling.

Q: What does the research say about the effectiveness themes of Антикатарал in different patient groups?

Clinical evidence has evaluated the effectiveness of the medicine’s core analgesic component, Paracetamol, in different patient populations. Official information indicates that patient risk factors and pre-existing health conditions are key considerations detailed in the warnings section.

Q: Is it possible for Антикатарал to interact with common herbal supplements like St. John's wort?

Yes, official interaction resources list St. John's wort as a supplement that may interfere with the way the body breaks down the drug's components. This type of interaction could potentially increase the risk of adverse effects from the medicine.

Q: Can someone with a history of stomach ulcers use Антикатарал?

Official safety information does not list a history of stomach ulcers as an absolute contraindication. However, official documents include general cautions and warnings regarding underlying gastrointestinal diseases, as is standard for this class of medicine. Official safety documents indicate that caution is required for individuals with a history of underlying gastrointestinal diseases.

Q: What is the usual duration that Антикатарал stays in the body?

The time the medicine stays in the body varies for each of the four active components. For example, the elimination half-life (the time it takes for half the drug to be removed) of the Paracetamol component is generally short, about 1 to 3 hours, but the half-life of Chlorphenamine can be significantly longer, ranging widely from 2 to over 40 hours.

Q: If I forget a dose of Антикатарал, what does the package insert typically say?

Official patient information addresses how to manage a missed dose while strictly adhering to the maximum daily limit and the required minimum time interval between doses. This ensures that the minimum time interval and maximum daily dose are not exceeded.

Q: Where can I find the official document (like the SmPC or DailyMed entry) for Антикатарал)?

Official regulatory documents, such as the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) or the DailyMed label, are maintained by national health authorities (like the FDA, EMA, or Health Canada). These documents can be found by searching the public drug databases of these government agencies using the medicine’s trade name or active components.

Q: Is it officially stated that Антикатарал can affect the ability to drive or operate machinery?

Yes, official safety warnings caution that this medicine may cause drowsiness or somnolence. Due to this potential effect from the antihistamine component, official safety warnings state that individuals should use caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medicine affects them.

How should Антикатарал be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Антикатарал

Official regulatory guidelines define specific conditions required to maintain the medicine's stability and ensure safety.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). Do not freeze.
Protection Keep the product in its original container and protect it from light and moisture in a dry place.
Safety The medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal Requirements

Any unused or expired medicine must not be thrown into household trash or poured down a drain unless specifically instructed by the label. Disposal must follow local environmental regulations, often utilizing community drug take-back programs or official collection points for pharmaceutical waste.

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

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Антикатарал found in:

A-Z Index: