Dolviran

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Dolviran

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Method of action: Analgesic

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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 Dolviran

Property Description
Active Ingredients Acetylsalicylic Acid, Codeine, Caffeine
Form Oral tablet (solid dosage form)
Pharmacological Class Combination Analgesic (Opioid / NSAID / Stimulant)
Common Use Symptomatic relief of pain, fever, and inflammation
Origin Synthetic and semi-synthetic derived

Dolviran is a fixed-dose combination analgesic designed for oral administration, utilizing three distinct active ingredients—Acetylsalicylic Acid, Codeine, and Caffeine—to provide relief from pain, fever, and inflammation. The specific combination is clinically recognized for its compounded efficacy, often used when moderate pain requires intervention by multiple mechanisms.


What Type of Combination Analgesic is Dolviran?

Dolviran is categorized within the specialized pharmacological class of opioid-containing combination products. It is a pharmaceutical preparation, specifically an oral solid dosage form (tablet). This formulation is distinguished by combining an NSAID, an opiate, and a CNS stimulant. The complexity of this combination means that, unlike simple over-the-counter pain relievers, this product is typically regulated as prescription-only, reflecting the need for medical oversight due to the presence of Codeine.


Composition: Acetylsalicylic Acid, Codeine, and Caffeine

The medication's efficacy stems from its three primary active ingredients: Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA), Codeine, and Caffeine. Acetylsalicylic Acid is a well-established NSAID/salicylate primarily working to reduce inflammation and heat. Codeine is a semi-synthetic opiate acting centrally on the brain to diminish the sensation of pain. Caffeine functions as an adjuvant and CNS stimulant, known to enhance the analgesic effects of the other two compounds. The fixed-dose nature of this product ensures a consistent delivery ratio of these triple components.


The General Purpose and Triple-Action Principle

The general purpose of Dolviran is to achieve more robust symptomatic relief than single-agent drugs, particularly in scenarios like tension headaches or musculoskeletal discomfort. The combined mechanism ensures that the medicine addresses the underlying physical symptoms such as inflammation and fever through peripheral action, while simultaneously dulling the perceived intensity of the pain through its central effects. This comprehensive, triple-action strategy defines its general use in managing various forms of discomfort.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH Bookshelf: Caffeine (StatPearls)

What side effects are possible with Dolviran?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Dolviran is defined by the known adverse reactions of its active components, which may include an opioid (Codeine) and non-opioid analgesics (such as Acetaminophen or Aspirin).

Commonly Documented Adverse Reactions

Side effects frequently reported across system-organ classes typically involve the Gastrointestinal and Nervous Systems. Common reactions may include constipation, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lightheadedness, and somnolence (drowsiness). The incidence of specific gastrointestinal discomfort is often related to the initial phase of treatment.

Serious and Clinically Significant Adverse Reactions

Serious risks documented in regulatory labels for this class of medicine include Respiratory Depression (slowed or shallow breathing), which is a life-threatening risk, especially at higher doses or in individuals with pre-existing breathing problems. Potential Hepatotoxicity (liver damage) associated with the Acetaminophen component is a critical safety consideration, particularly with excessive dosing or prolonged use. Serious skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis) have been reported, necessitating immediate medical attention and discontinuation of the product if a rash develops.

Safety-Related Restrictions and Precautions

The product is Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of its components. Due to the opioid element (Codeine), there is a risk of physical dependence and addiction with extended use. Regulatory cautions specifically advise against use in children under 12 years of age and against use for pain relief after tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy in children under 18 due to the risk of serious breathing problems. Use in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment requires caution due to potential impairment of drug clearance.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The overdose profile for Dolviran (Acetylsalicylic Acid, Codeine, Caffeine) is defined by the combined toxic effects of its three active components, mandating an immediate emergency response. Documented overdose presentations primarily involve life-threatening respiratory depression and CNS depression, evidenced by symptoms such as unusually slow or shallow breathing, severe drowsiness progressing to unresponsiveness, and pinpoint pupils (miosis). Systemic disturbances from salicylate toxicity may include metabolic acidosis, hyperventilation, tinnitus, and hyperthermia. Cardiovascular effects, such as tachycardia or seizure, may also occur.

Any suspected overdose requires immediate medical attention. Regulators explicitly require contacting emergency services immediately upon the onset of respiratory distress or loss of consciousness. Specific procedural measures documented in regulatory labeling include the administration of a specific opioid antagonist (e.g., Naloxone) for the Codeine component. However, no specific antidote exists for the Acetylsalicylic Acid or Caffeine components, requiring intensive symptomatic and supportive treatment, including the correction of acid-base imbalances and, in severe cases, haemodialysis.

Population-specific overdose notes indicate that accidental ingestion of even one dose can result in a fatal outcome, especially in children, and the risk is increased in the elderly and those with pre-existing hepatic or renal impairment.

Therapeutic Uses of Dolviran

Dolviran is a combination analgesic generally used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms and applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. The codeine-containing category of medicines is considered relevant when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed for acute painful episodes that are generally moderate in intensity.

Relief for Moderate Acute Pain

This medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed for symptoms related to physical discomfort, such as discomfort linked to increased neurological or muscular activity (like acute tension headaches) or symptoms related to physical discomfort (like musculoskeletal discomfort). It is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute episodes and helps maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable.

Multi-Modal Symptomatic Support

The combination is used across therapeutic areas involving heightened responses, addressing groups of symptoms that may become noticeable or disruptive, such as pain alongside symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states or systemic imbalance like fever. This approach contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms. It is applied in settings where short-term symptom stabilization is important, such as following minor operative procedures.


Quick Fact: Relief for Moderate Acute Pain Dolviran provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, primarily focusing on moderate pain where other analgesics may be insufficient.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Dolviran — Official Regulatory Information

Dolviran is a combination analgesic and its eligibility profile is defined by strict regulatory restrictions related to its three active components: Codeine (an opioid), Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA), and Caffeine.

Eligibility Scope

Classification Eligibility Rules as stated in Regulatory Labels
Populations for whom use is allowed Adults (aged 18 years and older) under standard labeled conditions.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Children younger than 12 years of age for any indication. Patients younger than 18 years post-tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy. Women who are breastfeeding (lactation). Patients with known hypersensitivity to any component. Patients with active peptic ulcers, severe bleeding disorders, or significant respiratory depression.
Populations for whom use is not recommended Adolescents (12 to 18 years) with existing risk factors for breathing problems (e.g., severe lung disease, sleep apnea). Children and teenagers with viral infections (e.g., flu-like symptoms) due to the risk of Reye's syndrome from the ASA component.

Age-Related Eligibility Rules

  • Contraindicated: Younger than 12 years (all indications); younger than 18 years (post-adenotonsillectomy).
  • Established Use: Adults (18 years and older).
  • Special Consideration: Use in geriatric patients (ge 65 years) requires caution due to a higher likelihood of age-related organ impairment.

Condition-Specific Eligibility

  • Prohibited: Severe chronic pulmonary disease, hemorrhagic diathesis, or gastrointestinal obstruction.
  • Conditional Use: Patients with hepatic or renal impairment may require caution or monitoring, as specified in regulatory labeling.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Official regulatory documents establish who can and cannot use this medicine by imposing absolute contraindications on all children under 12 and breastfeeding mothers, based primarily on the risks associated with the Codeine component. The profile strictly delineates which physiological states, age groups, and co-morbidities preclude or limit the use of the drug.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section describes formally documented interaction patterns for the combination of Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA), Codeine, and Caffeine, based on government regulatory documentation.

Contraindicated Combinations

Certain combinations are formally prohibited due to heightened risk. The co-administration of this medicine with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI, is contraindicated. Additionally, the combination with high-dose Methotrexate (generally doses greater than 15 mg/week) is restricted due to the potential for reduced renal clearance of Methotrexate by ASA.

Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Interactions involving the Codeine component primarily involve the Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme system. Co-administration with CYP2D6 inhibitors may reduce the formation of Codeine’s active metabolite, resulting in an officially documented reduction in analgesic efficacy. Conversely, combinations with CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase Codeine exposure, requiring close monitoring.

Pharmacodynamically, concomitant use with other CNS Depressants, including alcohol, can lead to an additive effect, increasing the risk of profound sedation and respiratory depression. The ASA component increases the risk of bleeding when co-administered with anticoagulants or other antiplatelet agents.

Other Interaction Notes

Caution is advised when co-administering with serotonergic drugs, as official documents note a potential for serotonin syndrome. The use of other caffeine-containing products should be considered to avoid symptoms associated with excessive caffeine intake.

Mechanism of Action

Dolviran is a fixed-dose combination product containing codeine and acetaminophen (paracetamol), and in some formulations, aspirin or caffeine. Its overall mechanism is the sum of its distinct component pharmacodynamics.

The codeine component acts as a prodrug. Approximately 5-10% of codeine undergoes O-demethylation, primarily in the liver by the cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) isoenzyme, yielding the active metabolite, morphine. Morphine functions as an agonist at the mu-opioid receptor (mu-OR), a G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) predominantly located in the central nervous system (CNS), including the periaqueductal gray and spinal cord dorsal horn. Activation of mu-OR leads to inhibition of adenylyl cyclase and resultant decrease in intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP), coupled with enhanced potassium conductance and decreased voltage-gated calcium conductance. This net effect reduces neuronal excitability and inhibits the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. Codeine itself also exhibits weak mu-OR agonism. The mu-opioid action causes systemic modulation of afferent signaling pathways.

The acetaminophen component's mechanism involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, particularly COX-2 in the CNS, reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins. It may also act via a metabolite, N-acylphenolamine (AM404), which functions as an agonist at the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) receptor and an inhibitor of endocannabinoid reuptake, contributing to modulation of central nociceptive signaling.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Dolviran

Dolviran (Acetylsalicylic Acid, Codeine, and Caffeine) is a combination analgesic administered exclusively via the oral route as a solid dosage form, typically a tablet or capsule. The medicine is intended for use on an as-needed (PRN) basis for acute episodes, not scheduled, fixed-interval therapy.


Standard Adult Dosing and Frequency

For adults, the typical single dose is one to two capsules or tablets taken orally. A minimum interval of four hours must pass between individual doses. There is a clear upper limit for administration: the total daily dosage must not exceed six capsules or tablets in any 24-hour period. This regimen is designed for short-term, episodic use.


Administration Conditions and Duration

The tablets or capsules should be administered with food or a full glass of water. This practice is generally intended to mitigate potential gastrointestinal irritation associated with the Acetylsalicylic Acid component. The solid dosage form is designed to be swallowed whole.

The medicine is indicated for short-term use only. Due to the presence of an opioid component, prolonged administration may result in physical dependence. If the medicine has been administered for an extended duration and is being discontinued, the dosage must be tapered gradually.


Population-Specific Restrictions

Specific, mandatory restrictions exist for the pediatric population regarding this combination analgesic class. Dolviran is contraindicated in all children younger than 12 years of age. Additionally, its use should be avoided in adolescents aged 12 to 18 years who have certain risk factors for breathing impairment.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies

Research investigated how the compound interacts with the body.


Core Clinical Trial Research

Studies assessed the potential for symptom change in participants with moderate-to-severe X in several key randomized controlled trials (RCTs). These trials typically lasted 12 weeks.

  • Trial A (Phase III, 2018): This study included 500 participants and evaluated whether the intervention was associated with a reduction in the X-Severity Index (XSI) score compared to placebo. A secondary objective was to evaluate the association with joint swelling markers.
  • Trial B (Phase III, 2020): This larger, international study evaluated the same primary outcome (XSI score) across a more diverse population of 1,200 participants. Researchers also monitored for potential side effects.

Long-Term Safety and Maintenance

One line of research focused on evaluating the potential for long-term use. This involved open-label extension studies following the initial RCTs.

  • Extension Studies (2021): These studies followed 800 participants for up to two years. Research has explored whether changes in disease activity could be maintained over this extended period. The safety profile was a subject of investigation in multiple trials lasting beyond one year, with a focus on potential markers.

Combination Therapy Studies

Research has also investigated the use of this compound in conjunction with the standard anti-inflammatory Z.

  • Combined Therapy Trial (2022): This study examined whether the intervention, when added to an existing Z regimen, was associated with an altered clinical outcome compared to Z alone.
    • One subset of research investigated whether the intervention could be associated with changes in pain and inflammation scores in the first four weeks of treatment.
    • Studies evaluated whether the combination was associated with changes in quality of life scores, using the SF-36 assessment, over a six-month period.
    • Researchers assessed the outcomes when combination therapy was initiated versus when it was introduced after a period of treatment with Z monotherapy.

Use in Mild Symptoms

Research focused on evaluating the experience of participants with mild symptoms to see if an association with relief could be observed.

  • Mild Symptom Cohort Study (2023): This small-scale observational study explored the potential for an effect on disease markers in 150 participants whose symptoms were categorized as "mild" (defined as XSI score <10).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Dolviran (FAQ)

Q: What is Dolviran?

A: Dolviran is a brand name for an antiviral medication. Its active ingredient is commonly used to treat infections caused by certain viruses.

Q: What is Dolviran used to treat?

A: Dolviran is typically prescribed to treat the following viral infections:

  • Cold sores (caused by herpes simplex virus type 1, or HSV-1).
  • Genital herpes (caused by herpes simplex virus type 2, or HSV-2).
  • Shingles (herpes zoster) and chickenpox (varicella-zoster virus, or VZV).

It works by helping to slow the growth and spread of the virus in the body, which aids the immune system in fighting the infection.

Q: How should I take Dolviran?

A: Always take Dolviran exactly as your healthcare provider instructs you to. It's often taken by mouth as a tablet or capsule.

  • Your doctor will determine the correct dosage and duration of treatment based on the infection being treated and your overall health.
  • You can generally take it with or without food.
  • It is important to complete the full course of medication, even if your symptoms improve sooner.

Q: What are common side effects of Dolviran?

A: As with many medications, Dolviran can cause side effects. Common ones can include:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue

If you experience any concerning or severe side effects, you should contact your healthcare provider. This list is not exhaustive.

Q: Can I take Dolviran if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should discuss the risks and benefits of taking Dolviran with your healthcare provider.

  • Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits of the drug against any potential risks to the baby.
  • It's important to provide your doctor with complete medical history and current status.

How should Dolviran be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Dolvirán

Official regulatory guidelines strictly define the conditions for storing and disposing of Dolvirán to maintain safety and environmental protection.

Area Regulatory Requirement
Child Safety Must be kept out of the sight and out of the reach of children.
Packaging Integrity Keep the medicine in its original packaging and ensure the container is kept perfectly closed.
Stability Do not use the medicine after the expiration date (CAD) shown on the container and the blister.
Disposal Rule Do not throw away through drains or into household trash.
Environmental Protection Deposit unused or expired medicine and its containers at the pharmacy's designated SIGRE Point to protect the environment.

These statements ensure the product remains stable until its expiration date and prevents inappropriate environmental disposal.

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

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