“Medicine, Health & Everyday Wellness from Japan”
Precol Long-Acting (Multi-Symptom Cold Medicine) Explained by a Pharmacist
Precol Long-Acting Capsules (Multi-Symptom Cold Medicine)
A pharmacist-friendly guide for when you want to ease several cold symptoms at once.
OTC in Japan (Class: Designated Class 2)
For ages 15+
Twice-daily dosing
Pt
I’ve got a low fever, sore throat, runny nose, and my body aches. Would Precol Long-Acting work for me?
Hi! I’m your pharmacist. Precol Long-Acting is designed to relieve fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, cough, headaches, body/joint aches, chills, and fatigue.
The “long-acting” capsules release medicine gradually, so you only take it twice a day.
The “long-acting” capsules release medicine gradually, so you only take it twice a day.
Rx
Who is it good for?
✅ Good match
- Fever + throat pain is bothersome
- Runny/stuffy nose, lots of sneezing
- Headache, body aches, chills, overall fatigue
- Mild-to-moderate cough or phlegm
- You prefer twice-daily dosing (busy schedule)
🔁 Consider another option
- Nasal symptoms only → a targeted antihistamine/decongestant may work faster
- Severe cough is the main issue → a cough-focused product may be better
- Stomach/intestinal symptoms (diarrhea, cramps) → consider GI-focused care
Main ingredients & what they do (per daily dose, 4 capsules)
| Ingredient | Amount (per 4 caps) | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Isopropylantipyrine (pyrazolone class) | 300 mg | Reduces fever and pain (headache, throat, joints) |
| Acetaminophen | 450 mg | Reduces fever and pain |
| Chlorpheniramine maleate | 7.5 mg | Allergy/antihistamine for runny nose & sneezing |
| Dihydrocodeine phosphate | 12 mg | Cough suppressant (may cause drowsiness/constipation) |
| dl-Methylephedrine HCl | 60 mg | Relieves cough; helps open airways |
| Licorice root extract | 118 mg (approx. 983 mg crude) | Soothes inflamed throat/nasal mucosa |
| Anhydrous caffeine | 75 mg | Helps headache; may affect sleep in some |
How to take
- Adults & 15+ years: 2 capsules per dose, twice daily (morning & evening, preferably within 30 minutes after meals)
- Do not use in children under 15 years
- Swallow capsules with water; push tablets out of the PTP sheet (never swallow the sheet)
- If symptoms don’t improve after 2–3 days (5–6 doses), stop and seek medical advice
Important precautions
- Avoid double-dosing/overlap: Don’t combine with other cold/flu meds, pain/fever reducers, sedatives, or antihistamines (including motion-sickness and some allergy meds). Ingredients may duplicate.
- Drowsiness: This product may cause sleepiness or dizziness. Avoid driving and operating machinery.
- Avoid alcohol while using this product; do not use long-term.
- Allergy alert: Do not use if you’ve had reactions to pyrazolones/“pyrine” drugs (e.g., isopropylantipyrine).
- Consult before use if pregnant (or may be), elderly, have drug allergies, high fever, urinary difficulties, thyroid disease, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, liver/kidney disease, stomach ulcers, glaucoma, breathing disorders, or sleep apnea.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Because this is a combination product, don’t self-medicate. Consult a healthcare professional first.
Breastfeeding: This product contains dihydrocodeine and dl-methylephedrine, which can pass into breast milk. Do not use while breastfeeding. If taken by mistake, pause breastfeeding for at least 48 hours; pump and discard before restarting. Seek medical advice if concerned.
Possible side effects—what to watch for
- Common-ish: drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation
- Stop and seek medical help if you notice: rash, shortness of breath, persistent high fever with widespread rash (SJS/TEN concerns), signs of liver trouble (yellow skin/eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue), signs of kidney issues (swelling, low urine), or sudden cough/fever with shortness of breath (interstitial pneumonia concerns).
When to see a doctor urgently
- High fever lasts more than 3 days or returns repeatedly
- Shortness of breath, chest pain, severe dehydration, confusion
- Worsening sore throat with pus, severe ear pain, or suspected influenza/COVID
Package & category
Capsule formulation; available in several box sizes in Japan (availability may vary by store).
Category: Designated Class 2 OTC.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Can I take it if I only have a runny nose and fatigue?
Yes, it also helps nasal symptoms and general fatigue. If nasal symptoms are the only issue, a dedicated allergy/nasal medicine may work faster with fewer ingredients.
Can I combine it with acetaminophen (paracetamol) like Tylenol?
No. This product already contains acetaminophen. Doubling up can increase side-effect risk (including liver concerns).
Will the caffeine keep me awake at night?
Possibly. It contains anhydrous caffeine, though some people still feel sleepy from the antihistamine and cough ingredients. If you’re sensitive, take the evening dose soon after dinner.
How long can I self-treat?
Generally 2–3 days. If you’re not better after 5–6 doses, or if symptoms worsen, stop and get medical advice.
Can I take it with other OTC cold, allergy, or sleep medicines?
Avoid combining. Many contain overlapping antihistamines, pain relievers, or sedatives. This increases drowsiness and other risks.
I’m breastfeeding but accidentally took a dose. What should I do?
Do not continue breastfeeding for at least 48 hours after a dose because of dihydrocodeine and dl-methylephedrine. Pump and discard; consult a healthcare professional about when to safely resume.
Pharmacist’s quick tips
- Twice-daily dosing is convenient—great when you’re busy.
- Because it’s a combo product, check for overlap with anything else you plan to take.
- Rest, fluids, and a comfy room temperature/humidity help medicines work better.
This article is general information for adults in Japan. Always read the package insert and consult your pharmacist/doctor—especially if you have medical conditions, take other medicines, or are pregnant/breastfeeding.
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