Flexispaz

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Flexispaz

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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 Flexispaz

Property Description
Active Ingredients Lornoxicam and Thiocolchicoside
Form Tablet or Capsule
Pharmacological Class Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and Central Skeletal Muscle Relaxant
General Purpose Symptomatic relief of pain and muscle spasm
Type Fixed-dose combination (FDC)

What Type of Medicine is Flexispaz?

Flexispaz is defined as a prescription-only fixed-dose combination (FDC) medicine administered via the oral route, typically as a tablet or capsule. It uniquely combines two distinct pharmacological classes to manage acute musculoskeletal conditions: a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and a Skeletal Muscle Relaxant. This combination is intended for the co-management of pain and muscle contraction.

The Core Components: Lornoxicam and Thiocolchicoside

The medicinal identity of Flexispaz is established by its two active ingredients: Lornoxicam and Thiocolchicoside. Lornoxicam is a potent synthetic NSAID belonging to the Oxicam class, which is included for its pronounced analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties by interrupting the body's pain signaling pathways. The second compound, Thiocolchicoside, is a semi-synthetic derivative of colchicine that acts centrally on the nervous system to promote muscle relaxation. This specific dual-component approach is a differentiating factor, targeting both inflammation and spasm with distinct chemical entities.

General Purpose of this Dual-Action Formulation

The primary purpose of this dual-action preparation is the effective symptomatic alleviation of pain and restricted movement in situations where inflammation and muscle spasm co-exist. The combination provides synergistic relief because each component addresses a different part of the pain cycle. The therapeutic strategy behind this FDC supports its use in improving comfort and functional recovery.

What side effects are possible with Flexispaz?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Flexispaz, the fixed-dose combination of Lornoxicam (an NSAID) and Thiocolchicoside (a muscle relaxant), is categorized according to frequency and the organ systems involved, as defined in official regulatory documentation.

Adverse Reaction Classification

Side effects are most frequently associated with the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. According to regulatory classifications, Common effects (ge 1/100 to <1/10) include gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea, abdominal pain, and dyspepsia, along with nervous system effects like dizziness and headache. Uncommon effects (ge 1/1,000 to <1/100) may include constipation, flatulence, and peripheral edema.

Serious Adverse Reactions

The profile highlights risks associated with the NSAID component. Official documents report the potential for serious, life-threatening events, including gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and perforation. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, such as severe skin conditions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome), and effects on renal and cardiac function are also documented.

Safety Restrictions and Special Populations

Official labeling imposes strict limitations on the use of this medication. Due to the Thiocolchicoside component, Flexispaz is contraindicated in pregnancy, during lactation, and in women of childbearing potential who are not using effective contraception. The medicine is also restricted to short-term treatment only (e.g., maximum 7 consecutive days for oral forms). It is contraindicated in individuals with severe renal or hepatic impairment, active peptic ulceration, or severe heart failure. Elderly patients face an increased risk of serious NSAID-related complications, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory guidance for Flexispaz overdose emphasizes the mandated action to seek immediate medical attention. The explicit instruction for users who have taken more than the prescribed dosage is to contact a doctor or pharmacist without delay. The management protocol for overdose is restricted to symptomatic and supportive treatment only, as the regulatory documents state that no specific antidote is known for the active components.

Documented clinical presentations may initially include gastrointestinal signs such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and epigastric pain. These are often accompanied by central nervous system effects, including dizziness and disturbances in vision. The profile incorporates documented high-dose class risks associated with the Lornoxicam (NSAID) component, which can lead to rare but serious outcomes like acute renal failure, respiratory depression, coma, and an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation.

Additionally, regulatory documents specify that doses exceeding the maximum recommended limit are strongly discouraged due to the recognized aneugenic risk of a Thiocolchicoside metabolite, which poses a potential risk factor for impaired male fertility. This structure defines the overdose situation by combining component-specific manifestations with severe, officially documented systemic toxicities.

Therapeutic Uses of Flexispaz

Flexispaz is generally applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed for managing heightened discomfort caused by acute musculoskeletal issues. The medication is considered relevant in clinical settings marked by increased pain and muscle tension. The therapeutic agent is used as an add-on treatment for painful muscle contractures resulting from spinal conditions.


Key Therapeutic Applications and Benefits

The medication is commonly used across conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, including acute episodes of low back pain, muscle strains and sprains, whiplash injuries, and pain related to certain forms of arthritis. It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, specifically the debilitating combination of muscle spasm, pain, and resulting rigidity. By offering symptomatic relief, the medication helps patients cope more steadily with difficult episodes.

“It is often used to provide supportive relief when symptoms related to inflammation and spasm interfere with daily comfort.”

Quick Fact: Symptomatic Support for Acute Muscle Spasm and Inflammatory Pain


Symptomatic Support

Flexispaz provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden, particularly by addressing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort. It contributes to improved day-to-day comfort during symptomatic periods and assists with functional stability, which is often compromised by painful muscle rigidity.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Flexispaz

Flexispaz is intended for use by adults (18 years and older) for the short-term management of acute muscle contractures. The eligibility profile is strictly defined by the regulatory requirements of both the NSAID (Lornoxicam) and the muscle relaxant (Thiocolchicoside) components. Use is not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age due to insufficient safety and efficacy data.


Contraindications and Restrictions

The medicine is contraindicated (must not be used) in patients with severe impairment of heart, liver, or kidney function, or those with active gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, or other bleeding disorders. Contraindication also applies to individuals with a known allergy to Lornoxicam, Thiocolchicoside, or any other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).

Use is prohibited during pregnancy and lactation. Furthermore, due to genotoxicity concerns associated with Thiocolchicoside, the medicine is contraindicated in women of childbearing potential who are not using effective contraceptive measures.

Conditional Use

Use requires caution in older adults, patients with mild-to-moderate renal or hepatic impairment, and individuals with a history of epilepsy or conditions that increase the risk of convulsions. The duration of treatment must be restricted to short-term use for acute symptom management.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Documented Drug-Drug Interactions

The official interaction profile for Flexispaz is structured around constraints derived from its two active components, Lornoxicam (NSAID) and Thiocolchicoside (muscle relaxant).

The Lornoxicam component defines the domain of Additive Bleeding Risk. Co-administration with other NSAIDs should be avoided due to the documented increase in the risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events. Similarly, combining it with anticoagulants (such as Warfarin or Heparin) and anti-platelet agents increases the risk of haemorrhage.

Lornoxicam interacts with the CYP2C9 enzyme system. Agents like Cimetidine have been shown to increase Lornoxicam's plasma concentration. Furthermore, Lornoxicam can increase the serum concentration of co-administered drugs such as Methotrexate and Lithium, requiring increased clinical caution. For high-dose Methotrexate, regulatory documentation requires special care if administered within 24 hours.

Substance and Population Restrictions

The Thiocolchicoside component establishes constraints related to Central Nervous System (CNS) effects. Alcohol and other CNS depressants can enhance the documented effects of sedation and drowsiness. The regulatory profile also includes mandatory restrictions against use in specific populations, namely pregnancy, lactation, and women of childbearing potential not using effective contraception, due to documented genotoxic risk, and in patients with a history of epilepsy or seizure disorders.

Mechanism of Action

Flexispaz is a fixed-dose combination product containing a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (Lornoxicam) and a centrally acting muscle relaxant (Thiocolchicoside).

Lornoxicam acts peripherally by functioning as an inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, both COX-1 and COX-2 isoforms. Inhibition of these enzymes reduces the biosynthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins from arachidonic acid in peripheral tissues. The subsequent reduction in prostaglandin levels modulates local inflammatory signaling.

Thiocolchicoside acts centrally, primarily targeting the GABAA receptor as a partial agonist. Binding to the GABAA receptor enhances the inhibitory effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid, promoting the influx of chloride ions and hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic neuron. This augmentation of inhibitory neurotransmission occurs at the level of the central nervous system, specifically the brainstem and spinal cord. The downstream cascade involves the depression of polysynaptic reflex arcs, which results in a reduction of tonic somatic motor activity. The combined modulation of peripheral inflammatory pathways and central spinal cord reflex excitability constitutes the systemic physiological effect.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines

The fixed-dose combination (FDC) of Lornoxicam and Thiocolchicoside is administered exclusively via the oral route as a tablet or capsule. Use of this medication is governed by constraints regarding maximum dosage and treatment duration, particularly due to the Thiocolchicoside component.

Property Instruction
Route of administration Oral use only.
Dosing schedule The maximum dose of the Thiocolchicoside component is 16 mg per day (e.g., 8 mg per dose).
Timing in relation to meals (if applicable) The tablet or capsule should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.
Age-group administration rules The FDC is not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 16 years of age.
Special procedural conditions Treatment is strictly limited to a maximum of 7 consecutive days. The maximum daily dose of the Lornoxicam component is reduced to 12 mg for patients with mild to moderate renal or hepatic impairment.

Instruction Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Detail
Administration method type Oral.
Frequency pattern Twice daily (every 12 hours).
Instructional Basis Governed by established posology requirements.
Use-context constraints Acute, short-term use only (7-day maximum course).

Resulting Procedural Structure

Official step sequence:

  • Begin administration at a dose that respects the 16 mg daily limit for both active ingredients.
  • Administer the fixed dose twice daily (every 12 hours).
  • Swallow the tablet or capsule whole with liquid; do not crush or chew.
  • Discontinue administration immediately upon reaching the 7-day maximum course duration.

Connection to the overall use protocol: The official instructions establish a rigid, time-limited dosing protocol aligned with the constraints imposed on the Thiocolchicoside component. This structure mandates precise twice-daily administration over a maximum seven-day period, ensuring the dose and duration limits are respected for all approved uses.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Phase 3 Trial Summary

Research into this investigational compound centered on randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who had an inadequate response to prior disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy. The primary phase of investigation included a study population of 650 participants followed over 52 weeks.

  • Activity Profile Studies Preclinical and early-phase research investigated the compound's effect profile. This investigational activity was evaluated for its potential to support joint function and to address pain and swelling in subsequent trials.

  • Efficacy Outcomes The primary studies reported a reduction in disease activity (DAS28 score) that was maintained through the study duration, with initial responses observed during the early study period in various populations. A greater proportion of participants reached the ACR20 response criteria compared to the placebo group at Week 12. Secondary outcomes also examined improvements in the physical function assessment (HAQ-DI).

  • Safety Profile Long-term data from these trials included the observation of participants over the study duration. Adverse events (AEs) reported in the trials included upper respiratory tract infections and transient elevations in liver enzymes, primarily within the first 12 weeks.


Combination Therapy Research

This investigational treatment was the subject of research examining its role as a potential initial therapy, including in studies of participant groups where combination therapies might be challenging.

  • Drug X + Methotrexate (MTX) Clinical investigations compared the efficacy and tolerability of Drug X in combination with MTX versus MTX monotherapy. The combination group reported a higher percentage of participants achieving low disease activity (DAS28 < 3.2) at 24 weeks. Evidence remains limited on the long-term findings of this specific combination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Flexispaz (FAQ)


Q: How quickly does Flexispaz start to work?

Official studies indicate that the active components of Flexispaz reach their maximum concentration in the bloodstream relatively quickly after being taken. Clinical trials observed initial positive responses during the early period of study. The precise time until the full effects are noticed may vary among individuals, as reported in studies.


Q: How long do the effects of Flexispaz last?

The effects of Flexispaz are linked to the two active ingredients. One component, the muscle relaxant, is described as having a half-life of about 7 hours, meaning that it takes this long for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. This pharmacological characteristic is consistent with the general administration guidance for managing acute symptoms.


Q: Is Flexispaz considered a narcotic or addictive?

Flexispaz is officially categorized as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) combined with a central skeletal muscle relaxant. Regulatory documents do not classify the active components of this medicine as narcotics or controlled substances that carry an official classification for addiction potential.


Q: Can Flexispaz cause drowsiness or fatigue?

Yes, regulatory safety profiles classify side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness as commonly reported. While fatigue is not always explicitly listed as a common effect, the central nervous system (CNS) effects of the muscle relaxant component are known to potentially cause feelings of general impairment or tiredness.


Q: Is it okay to take Flexispaz every day?

Official regulatory documents strictly limit the duration of treatment with Flexispaz. The medicine is intended only for the short-term, acute relief of symptoms. Treatment is typically restricted to a maximum course duration, such as 7 consecutive days, to comply with safety requirements established by regulators.


Q: Can people with high blood pressure use Flexispaz?

Official documents note that caution is required when using Flexispaz in individuals with certain heart conditions. Because the NSAID component (Lornoxicam) may be associated with cardiovascular risks, including potential effects on blood pressure, the presence of cardiovascular risk means this medicine is used under specific caution as outlined in official warnings.


Q: What foods or drinks should be avoided while taking Flexispaz?

Regulatory documents explicitly warn that alcohol should be avoided. The combination of alcohol and Flexispaz can enhance the central nervous system depressant effects, such as drowsiness. Official regulatory documents do not list other specific dietary restrictions.


Q: Is Flexispaz safe for older adults?

Official labeling advises that older adults should use this medication with caution. This caution is due to the increased risk of certain serious side effects associated with the NSAID component, particularly related to gastrointestinal complications like bleeding.


Q: Is 'Flexispaz' the same as other spasm-treating drugs like X, Y, or Z?

Flexispaz is defined by its unique composition as a fixed-dose combination containing the NSAID Lornoxicam and the muscle relaxant Thiocolchicoside. The regulatory description of the drug is based only on these two active ingredients. Official medical documentation does not compare this product to other specific brand or generic drugs.


Q: Can Flexispaz be used for treating migraines or headaches?

The official indication, or approved purpose, for Flexispaz is the symptomatic relief of pain and muscle spasms associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions. Specific disorders like migraines or other primary headache types are not listed among the approved uses in authoritative regulatory documents.


Q: Can Flexispaz affect my driving ability?

Official warnings state that side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances may occur. Due to these potential effects on the central nervous system, regulatory documents caution that these effects could temporarily impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.


Q: What research evidence supports the use of Flexispaz?

The use of the muscle relaxant component (Thiocolchicoside) has been reviewed by regulatory bodies like the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This review relied on clinical evidence supporting its use as an additional treatment for painful muscle contractures in acute spinal conditions, and this evidence is the basis for the approved short-term indication.


Q: Does Flexispaz interact with herbal supplements?

Official documents list interactions with many pharmaceutical agents and alcohol. The NSAID component interacts with the CYP2C9 enzyme system. The potential for interaction means that concurrent use of products affecting the CYP2C9 enzyme system is a matter for official consideration.


Q: What does it mean if I feel dizzy after taking Flexispaz?

Dizziness is classified as a common side effect in the official safety profile for Flexispaz. As a known reaction, regulatory documents caution that this effect could temporarily impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.


Q: What is the difference between Flexispaz and a pain reliever?

Flexispaz is a fixed-dose combination product that contains both a pain reliever (Lornoxicam, an NSAID) and a central skeletal muscle relaxant (Thiocolchicoside). The muscle relaxant acts on the central nervous system to relieve muscle contractures, which provides a dual action beyond what a simple pain reliever alone provides.


Q: What are common user misunderstandings about Flexispaz?

Official regulatory warnings highlight the strict use restrictions related to Flexispaz. Common areas for misunderstanding include the mandated maximum 7-day treatment limit and the contraindication for women of childbearing potential who are not using effective contraception due to a documented genotoxicity risk.


Q: Can Flexispaz cause stomach upset or nausea?

Yes, official safety data indicates that gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, abdominal pain, and general stomach discomfort are classified as common reactions to this medication. These are typical effects associated with the NSAID component of the drug.


Q: Is it normal to feel a dry mouth while taking Flexispaz?

While dry mouth is not listed as a common or uncommon side effect in the core regulatory summary, it is a known effect associated with certain types of centrally-acting muscle relaxant medications. The occurrence of dry mouth, if observed, should be aligned with the full known safety profile of the medication.


Q: Is Flexispaz used to treat nerve pain?

The approved purpose of Flexispaz, as stated in regulatory documents, is the symptomatic relief of pain and muscle spasms associated with acute musculoskeletal conditions. Specific types of nerve pain (neuropathic pain) are not listed as an approved indication for this medication.


Q: Can I take Flexispaz if I have glaucoma?

Specific conditions like glaucoma are not consistently listed as a contraindication in major regulatory documents for this fixed-dose combination. However, official warnings require caution in patients with pre-existing severe organ impairment or certain central nervous system effects.


Q: Are there any blood tests required while taking Flexispaz?

The short duration of treatment (maximum 7 days) usually does not require routine blood tests for all patients. However, clinical trials did report transient elevations in liver enzymes, and the NSAID component requires caution in patients with pre-existing hepatic or renal impairment, which is one area for potential monitoring as outlined in clinical guidance.


Q: Can Flexispaz be taken before surgery?

The NSAID component (Lornoxicam) is known to affect platelet function and can interact with blood thinners, increasing the risk of bleeding. Because of this, regulatory warnings advise caution regarding the use of NSAIDs in the period leading up to surgery.


Q: Does Flexispaz have any effect on blood sugar levels?

Studies examining the Lornoxicam component have indicated a potential for interaction when administered with certain anti-diabetic medications, such as glibenclamide, suggesting a possible influence on glucose levels. The potential for this influence is noted in the official warnings relevant to patients who are receiving antidiabetic treatment.


Q: Can Flexispaz be taken on an empty stomach?

Official administration instructions state that the tablet should be swallowed whole with water. While some sources may recommend taking it with or after food to potentially minimize irritation of the stomach lining caused by the NSAID, this is not a strict requirement for administration.


Q: Can Flexispaz affect my mood or mental clarity?

The official safety profile lists several central nervous system (CNS) effects, including dizziness and drowsiness. Although specific mood changes are not commonly listed, these CNS effects, particularly the potential for confusion in older adults, can impact mental clarity.


Q: What is the risk of overdose with Flexispaz?

Regulatory documents provide information regarding the general management of an overdose. Potential symptoms associated with NSAID overdose may include drowsiness, nausea, lethargy, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Overdose management is typically supportive care.


Q: Does Flexispaz contain any common allergens like lactose or gluten?

Official product information, such as the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), lists excipients (inactive ingredients) that may include substances like lactose or sucrose. The presence of these components results in official warnings for patients with specific intolerances, such as congenital galactosemia or lactose intolerance.

How should Flexispaz be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

Flexispaz (Lornoxicam/Thiocolchicoside FDC) must be handled and stored according to specific regulatory standards to maintain the product's stability.


Storage Conditions

Item Requirement
Temperature Store at room temperature, not exceeding 30 C.
Protection Keep in a dry place and protect from light (store in the original container).
Safety Must be kept out of the sight and reach of children (mandatory instruction).

Disposal Instructions

Do not dispose of Flexispaz in household waste or flush it down the toilet or sink. Official guidelines require that any unused or expired medicine be returned to a pharmacist or a designated local pharmaceutical waste collection program. Disposal must be carried out according to local environmental regulations for medicinal products.

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

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