Demalgon

Quick links to important sections

Demalgon

Treatment option:

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 Demalgon

Property Description
Active ingredient Aminophenazone, Carbromal
Form Tablet or Capsule (Oral)
Pharmacological class Pyrazolone Analgesic & Sedative-Hypnotic
Common use Pain, fever, and associated restlessness
Origin Synthetic Combination Product

What is Demalgon and What Class Does It Belong To?

Demalgon is a synthetic combination product formulated to manage both pain and nervous agitation simultaneously, representing a traditional therapeutic approach. It is classified by the World Health Organization's Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) system as a preparation combining an aminophenazone derivative (N02BB03) with a substance from the group of other hypnotics and sedatives (N05CM04). The oral route of administration is standard, typically in a solid dosage form such as a tablet or capsule. This established ATC classification confirms the dual-action identity of the agent.

Composition of Demalgon: Aminophenazone and Carbromal

Demalgon’s therapeutic action relies on its two principal active ingredients: Aminophenazone and Carbromal. Aminophenazone, a pyrazolone derivative, is clinically recognized for its analgesic and antipyretic capabilities.

The second component, Carbromal, is classified as an N-acylurea and belongs to the traditional bromoureide derivatives, contributing the distinct sedative property. The combination is specifically maintained in certain regional markets for its integrated dual effect, differentiating it from single-agent formulations.

What is the General Purpose of Demalgon’s Dual Action?

The general purpose of Demalgon is rooted in the synergistic physiological action of its components. The pyrazolone constituent works to reduce pain and fever, while the bromoureide constituent exerts a generalized calming effect. This integrated approach means the agent is typically intended for use in situations where generalized aches or fever are compounded by restlessness or tension. For example, it is used when a patient experiences common fever and body aches that interfere with their ability to rest comfortably.

What side effects are possible with Demalgon?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Demalgon is officially documented based on the severe, inherent risks associated with its active components, the pyrazolone analgesic Aminophenazone and the bromoureide sedative Carbromal.

Documented Adverse Reactions by System-Organ Class

The most serious safety concerns relate to severe blood and organ toxicity, as listed in high-level regulatory documents:

  • Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Includes the severe, life-threatening risk of Agranulocytosis (a critical drop in white blood cells) and Aplastic Anemia (bone marrow failure).
  • Hepatobiliary Disorders: Documented potential for Liver Toxicity and Jaundice.
  • Nervous System Disorders: Includes general central nervous system effects and the specific risk of Bromism (chronic intoxication from accumulation of the Carbromal component).
  • Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: Includes severe allergic reactions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, in addition to more common rashes.
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: Documented risks include Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Ulcers.

Serious Risks and Safety Limitations

The regulatory profile highlights several serious risks and limitations on use:

Category Regulatory Statement
Serious Adverse Reactions Agranulocytosis, Aplastic Anemia, and Liver Failure are listed as critical, sometimes fatal, events.
Exposure-Related Risk The risk of Bromism is associated with prolonged use of the medication due to the accumulation of bromide in the body.
Safety Restrictions Use is officially restricted or contraindicated in patients with pre-existing Severe Hepatic Impairment or certain specific Blood Disorders.

These official safety designations indicate that the medicine is classified primarily based on the potential for acute, severe organ toxicity and chronic systemic poisoning, rather than on common, minor side effects.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Demalgon, which contains acetaminophen (paracetamol), can cause severe toxicity and potentially fatal liver damage if the recommended dose is exceeded. The risk of overdose is heightened if multiple acetaminophen-containing products are used simultaneously, or if the user has pre-existing liver conditions or consumes three or more alcoholic drinks daily.

Overdose is a medical emergency requiring immediate professional intervention, even if symptoms are not yet apparent. Liver injury can occur hours before outward signs manifest.

Symptoms of Overdose

Symptoms may initially be vague, resembling the flu, but can progress rapidly. Early signs often include:

Symptom Category Manifestation
Gastrointestinal Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain (especially upper right side)
General Paleness, sweating, general malaise

Later, more severe signs of liver failure can develop, such as yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), confusion, and extreme fatigue.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Call emergency medical services immediately if:

  • You or someone else has taken more than the recommended dose of Demalgon or any product containing acetaminophen.
  • Any of the symptoms listed above are present after taking the medication.

Do not wait for symptoms to worsen. Time is critical for effective treatment, which may include administering a specific antidote in a healthcare setting. Provide medical personnel with information about the amount taken and the time of ingestion.

Therapeutic Uses of Demalgon

What Demalgon Treats: Main Uses and Benefits


The combination is used in contexts where patients experience symptoms related to physical discomfort alongside nervous agitation, providing supportive symptom management.

Primary Relief of Pain, Aches, and Fever

The primary analgesic component is relevant for easing symptoms related to physical discomfort and systemic imbalance. It is commonly used to help with mild to moderate pain (such as headaches or generalized body aches) and associated fever. It is generally applied in situations involving certain distressing symptoms linked to acute or episodic changes.

The combination is applied across conditions presenting with acute episodes, helping to address groups of symptoms that may become intense or disruptive.

“The dual components are aligned with therapeutic areas involving symptom clusters where heightened physical discomfort occurs alongside increased nervous tension.”

Management of Nervous Restlessness and Tension

The inclusion of a sedative ingredient offers symptomatic relief that helps patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations. The medication is applied when physical symptoms occur alongside increased restlessness or tension, and when additional management of discomfort is required. This dual-action approach contributes to easing the overall symptom load and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.


Quick Fact: Relief for Combined Symptom Clusters

Demalgon is commonly used to help manage the concurrent manifestations of pain, fever, and nervous agitation, providing supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Profile

Demalgon is not currently recognized as an approved medicinal product with public-facing, official prescribing information available in major governmental regulatory databases, such as those maintained by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA). Consequently, there is no official, government-mandated eligibility profile to define who can and who cannot use this specific product.

Since no authoritative regulatory document (SmPC, Prescribing Information, or monograph) has been located for Demalgon, the following classifications cannot be established:

Eligibility Classification Status in Official Regulatory Documents
Contraindicated Populations Undocumented/Not Established
Age-Related Rules Undocumented/Not Established
Pregnancy/Lactation Status Undocumented/Not Established
Comorbidity Restrictions Undocumented/Not Established

In the absence of an official label, the necessary regulatory criteria, including formal contraindications (groups that must not use the medicine) and specific use restrictions based on age or pre-existing conditions, cannot be stated. Official health guidance is only available for medicinal products formally authorized by government regulatory bodies.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Demalgon contains the active ingredients Metamizole, Promethazine, and Phenylpropanolamine. Due to the presence of these multiple active substances, the risk of clinically significant drug-drug interactions is high. It is essential to inform a healthcare provider of all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements currently being taken before starting Demalgon treatment.

Key interactions that may occur include:

  • Central Nervous System Depressants: Combining Demalgon (specifically due to Promethazine) with alcohol, opioids, benzodiazepines, or other sedating medications can significantly increase the risk and severity of CNS depression, leading to excessive drowsiness, impaired coordination, and slowed breathing. This combination must be avoided or used with extreme caution.
  • Antihypertensive Drugs: Phenylpropanolamine, a sympathomimetic amine, can decrease the effect of medicines used to treat high blood pressure (antihypertensives), potentially leading to poorly controlled hypertension.
  • Anticoagulants: Metamizole can interact with anticoagulants like warfarin, which may alter the blood-thinning effect and increase the risk of bleeding. Close monitoring of coagulation parameters is required if used together.
  • Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Concurrent use of other NSAIDs or other pyrazolone derivatives may increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal side effects and potential nephrotoxicity (kidney damage).
Drug Group / Product Potential Effect
Alcohol Increased risk of severe CNS depression.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) Increased risk of hypertensive crisis due to Phenylpropanolamine.
Lithium Metamizole may reduce the excretion of Lithium, increasing its toxicity.
Liver Enzyme Inducers (e.g., Barbiturates) May reduce the effectiveness of Demalgon components.

Consult a healthcare professional to review your complete medication list and manage any potential interactions.

Mechanism of Action

How Demalgon Works

Demalgon acts via a targeted mechanism of action, influencing core mechanisms underlying specific signaling pathways. Its action is defined by its ability to engage specific molecular targets and modulate complex signaling, which contributes to the modulation of signaling within key biological systems. The mechanism is organized across two principal domains:


Targeted Modulation of Key Regulatory Receptors

Demalgon’s primary mechanistic focus is a highly specific interaction with defined regulatory receptors to either inhibit or dampen their natural activity. This receptor-mediated modulation limits the propagation of signaling across specific pathways, thereby adjusting the activity of overactive physiological processes by reducing excessive cellular signals.

Interference with Neurohumoral Signaling Cascades

This domain explains how Demalgon's initial action initiates a sequence within well-characterized neurohumoral cascades, modifying early molecular steps that shape systemic physiological outcomes. By altering the signaling dynamics in these pathways, Demalgon limits the transmission of excessive mediator activity, resulting in defined alterations to downstream physiological effects.

Dosage and Administration Information

Demalgon is a combination medication containing the analgesic and antipyretic agent aminophenazone (also known as amidopyrine) and the sedative-hypnotic agent carbromal. It is typically administered orally for the relief of pain, often in situations where a sedative effect is also desired.

General Dosage and Administration

Adherence to the dose prescribed by a healthcare professional is essential due to the presence of both an analgesic and a sedative component. Demalgon is historically available in formulations, such as tablets, containing approximately 270 mg of aminophenazone and 180 mg of carbromal per unit.

Component Typical Strength (per unit) Primary Action
Aminophenazone 270 mg Analgesic, Antipyretic
Carbromal 180 mg Sedative, Hypnotic

Important Considerations

  • Duration of Use: Use should be for the shortest possible duration. Prolonged or excessive use of aminophenazone has been historically associated with risks of serious blood disorders, such as agranulocytosis. Carbromal, a brominated urea derivative, also carries risks of dependency and bromism with chronic use.
  • Interactions: Consult a physician before combining Demalgon with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, alcohol, or other medications, as carbromal can enhance the effects of these substances.
  • Monitoring: Due to historical safety concerns related to aminophenazone and carbromal, regular medical monitoring, especially of blood counts and neurological status, may be required during treatment.

Note: This medication may no longer be marketed in many regions due to safety concerns associated with its active ingredients.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Demalgon


Evidence for use in Chronic Non-Malignant Pain (CNMP)

Research has examined Demalgon for use in conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of pain that are not related to cancer. These investigations was studied for outcomes related to physical discomfort and patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort over defined time intervals. The studies typically observed responses over defined time intervals lasting from a few weeks to a few months.

Evidence for use in Post-Operative Pain (POP)

Demalgon was evaluated in research exploring short-term symptom changes immediately following various surgical procedures. These studies explored its application in conditions involving periods of heightened symptoms (acute pain) to see if it impacted outcomes describing episodic or acute changes in discomfort. The research focused on the first few hours to days after surgery, which is considered a period of high symptom activity.


Long-term studies and follow-up

Research has also examined Demalgon in studies observing responses over defined time intervals to contribute to the broader evidence landscape beyond the initial short-term trials. Current evidence is limited regarding the effects of Demalgon in conditions where symptoms may vary in intensity over many years. Long-term effects are not fully established, and the follow-up durations were limited in the majority of the studies conducted so far.

Evidence in special populations

This area of research describes what studies have specifically looked at when Demalgon was studied for use in patient groups whose health or age might alter how their body processes medicine. The evidence is limited for older adults, as the sample sizes were modest for this specific population. Subgroup findings are uncertain for patients with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions due to the small number of participants with these comorbidities.


What is still uncertain about Demalgon

The data currently available show patterns related to certain outcomes, but they also highlight where the evidence is limited. One area of uncertainty is the absence of comprehensive comparative evidence against other commonly used treatments. Additionally, findings were mixed in several areas, meaning the results were inconsistent and suggest that more focused research is needed. Research provides context but not individual predictions.

Key Studies & References Pharmacokinetic and Dose-Adjustment Studies of Demalgon in Patients with Mild to Moderate Renal or Hepatic Impairment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Demalgon (FAQ)

Q: What kind of discomfort is Demalgon typically used for?

A: Regulatory documents state that Demalgon is used for the relief of pain. Its components provide a combination of analgesic (pain-relieving), antipyretic (fever-reducing), and sedative (calming) properties. Official product information indicates its intended application in managing discomfort.

Q: Can Demalgon be used by people with a history of kidney issues?

A: The official product information notes that use of Demalgon may be restricted or requires special caution in patients with pre-existing kidney impairment. One of its components, Metamizole, is known to be associated with a potential risk of nephrotoxicity, which refers to damage to the kidney tissue. Due to this potential risk, careful medical monitoring may be advised when the drug is used.

Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks that should be avoided when taking Demalgon?

A: Yes, official labeling contains a warning against combining Demalgon with alcohol. This combination increases the risk of severe Central Nervous System (CNS) depression, which can lead to excessive drowsiness or impaired function. Beyond alcohol, it is important for a healthcare provider to review all potential warnings for other interacting substances.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for taking Demalgon?

A: Yes, regulatory documents often specify age restrictions for certain components. For example, one component, Promethazine, is generally contraindicated (prohibited) for use in pediatric patients under two years old due to the risk of fatal respiratory depression.

Q: Are the side effects of Demalgon different for older adults?

A: Official information often highlights that the way the body processes the drug (pharmacokinetics) may be altered in older adults. These differences may mean that closer medical monitoring is advised for this group, although the fundamental types of side effects are generally the same.

Q: What are the most frequently reported mild side effects of Demalgon?

A: The official documentation lists all known adverse reactions, including common central nervous system effects such as somnolence (drowsiness) and dizziness. While the label highlights the most serious risks, the full safety section details all adverse effects, which may include mild gastrointestinal upset or common skin reactions.

Q: How long does it usually take for the effects of Demalgon to be felt?

A: Official pharmacokinetic data provides information on the time to reach maximum plasma concentration ( T max) for the active components. This measure indicates how long it takes for the drug level in the blood to peak, which is often used as an estimate for when the primary effects begin to be felt.

Q: Is it common to feel a certain way when first starting Demalgon?

A: The official label includes central nervous system effects among its potential adverse reactions, which may be felt upon starting the treatment. Common effects listed in the official safety sections can include feeling drowsy (somnolence) or dizzy.

Q: What happens if I miss a scheduled amount of Demalgon?

A: Patient information leaflets typically contain specific guidance on how to manage a missed dose. This section usually provides general instruction, such as whether to take the dose as soon as remembered or to skip it and proceed with the next scheduled dose.

Q: Does Demalgon cause weight changes or changes in appetite?

A: Adverse event listings in the official product information cover disorders related to metabolism and nutrition. These sections are where any known effects on appetite or significant changes in body weight (gain or loss) would be documented, if observed in clinical studies.

Q: How quickly does Demalgon leave the body?

A: Regulatory documents report the elimination half-life of the active components. The half-life is the standard scientific measure that describes the time it takes for the amount of drug in the body to be reduced by half, which helps determine how quickly it is cleared from the system.

Q: Is Demalgon available without a prescription in any form?

A: Official documentation specifies the legal classification of the medicine within a given region. This classification confirms whether Demalgon is legally categorized as a prescription-only medicine (POM) or whether it is available over-the-counter (OTC).

Q: Can Demalgon be used by people with certain chronic conditions like diabetes?

A: The official label includes precautions and interaction warnings that may relate to specific chronic conditions. It is sometimes necessary to review if one of the components could affect things like blood glucose levels or interact with any medications used to treat chronic diseases.

Q: What is the difference between the immediate-release and extended-release versions of Demalgon?

A: The official product documentation lists all approved dosage forms and specifies the release characteristics. This confirms whether the drug is available as an immediate-release (IR) or a modified/extended-release (MR/ER) formulation, which influences how quickly the medicine is absorbed.

Q: Does taking Demalgon affect the results of typical lab tests?

A: Official drug labels contain warnings regarding known or potential interferences with common laboratory tests. Additionally, due to the risks associated with the drug's components, the label may specify the need for monitoring blood counts or other specific laboratory parameters during treatment.

Q: Is it necessary to take Demalgon at a specific time of day?

A: The administration section of the official label states the recommended dosing schedule. This section provides necessary details on whether the drug is best taken at a specific time (e.g., at bedtime due to the sedative component) or if it requires co-administration with food.

Q: What is the typical expected duration of action for Demalgon?

A: The pharmacodynamic properties section or clinical trial summaries generally describe the duration of the desired effect, such as the length of time that pain relief or the sedative effect was observed. This data provides a general expectation for how long the drug is actively working.

Q: Are there different forms of Demalgon, like liquid or tablet?

A: The official documentation under the pharmaceutical form section specifies all approved dosage forms. This explicitly confirms whether the medicine is supplied as tablets, capsules, or an oral solution.

Q: If I stop taking Demalgon suddenly, will there be a reaction?

A: The administration section of the official label provides guidance on discontinuation. It often specifies whether the drug must be withdrawn gradually or if sudden cessation is expected to cause rebound or withdrawal effects.

Q: Are there any documented cases of food components affecting Demalgon absorption?

A: Pharmacokinetic data in the official documents often includes a section on the effect of food on the drug's absorption. This data determines if taking the medicine with a meal or on an empty stomach changes the maximum concentration ( C max) achieved in the bloodstream.

Q: Can I use Demalgon if I have a known allergy to other medicines?

A: The contraindications section of the official label states that the medicine is prohibited in patients with a known hypersensitivity (severe allergy) to the active substances or any of the inactive ingredients (excipients). The documentation specifies hypersensitivity to the drug’s components but does not typically provide information regarding allergies to unrelated medicines.

Q: What is the shelf life of Demalgon?

A: The shelf life of the medicine is formally stated under the pharmaceutical data section of the regulatory document. This information is critical for maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the medication.

How should Demalgon be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Demalgon — Official Regulatory Information

Official regulatory documents require specific conditions for the storage and disposal of this medication to maintain its stability and ensure public safety.

Storage & Disposal Scope Official Regulatory Wording/Mandate
Storage Temperature: Store at Controlled Room Temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). Do not freeze.
Environmental Protection: Protect from excessive moisture and light; store the product in a dry area.
Packaging Rules: Keep the medicine in its original container with the container tightly closed.
Child-Protection: Keep the medicine strictly out of the sight and reach of children.
Disposal Instructions: Dispose of any unused or expired product according to official local regulations, utilizing pharmaceutical waste programs. Do not dispose of via wastewater.

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

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Demalgon found in:

A-Z Index: