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Hifenac-P

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Hifenac-P

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Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

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.

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Overview of Hifenac-P

Property Description
Active Ingredients Aceclofenac, Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)
Form Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) Tablet
Pharmacological Class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and Analgesic/Antipyretic
Common Use Principle Management of acute pain, inflammation, and fever
Origin Synthetic drug product

Hifenac-P: A Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) Analgesic

Hifenac-P is a synthetic Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) preparation designed for oral administration in the form of a tablet. The preparation is classified as a composite Analgesic/Antipyretic incorporating a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). This dual classification is a key differentiating feature, moving beyond the scope of single-ingredient medications. This strategic combination structure is clinically recognized for offering efficient relief in scenarios where both localized inflammation and systemic pain contribute to a patient’s discomfort.

Composition: Aceclofenac, Paracetamol, and Dual Action

The composition of Hifenac-P centers on two distinct active ingredients: Aceclofenac and Paracetamol (Acetaminophen). Aceclofenac is a synthetically derived phenylacetic acid derivative, and Paracetamol is a para-aminophenol derivative, a widely used analgesic compound. The formulation utilizes specific pharmaceutical excipients to achieve the stable oral tablet form, suitable for quick disintegration and absorption. This composition is favored over separate tablets as it simplifies administration by providing a predefined ratio of components.

General Therapeutic Purpose of the Combination

The general therapeutic purpose of Hifenac-P is to provide efficient and comprehensive management of acute symptomatic discomfort, often encountered in conditions like musculoskeletal pain or acute inflammatory flare-ups. The preparation achieves this by leveraging the complementary physiological actions of its two components: Aceclofenac works to reduce the underlying inflammatory process, while Paracetamol contributes to fever reduction and elevation of the overall pain threshold. The resulting combined action serves as an effective tool for addressing immediate, multi-faceted symptoms of discomfort.

Regulatory References

  1. Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) - NIH Bookshelf
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What side effects are possible with Hifenac-P?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for the Aceclofenac/Paracetamol combination is structured around the documented risks associated with both the NSAID and analgesic components, as defined by government regulatory authorities.


Adverse Reaction Scope

Category Description
Key Adverse Reaction Categories Adverse events primarily involve the Gastrointestinal (GI), Hepatobiliary, and Nervous Systems.
Common Side Effects Dizziness, nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, and an increase in hepatic enzymes are listed as commonly observed effects.
System-Organ Classes Involved Reactions are classified across organ systems, including the GI tract (e.g., ulceration), liver (hepatic impairment), kidneys (renal failure), and skin (rash, pruritus).

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Official labels detail serious risks that, while rare, are clinically significant and must be noted:

  • Serious Gastrointestinal Events: Include potential bleeding, ulceration, or perforation, events reported with all NSAIDs and often without warning symptoms.
  • Serious Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events: Medicines containing Aceclofenac may be associated with an increased risk of events such as myocardial infarction (heart attack) or stroke.
  • Severe Skin Reactions: Conditions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) have been reported.
  • Population-Specific Safety: Older adults are cited in regulatory documents as having an increased frequency and severity of GI adverse reactions. Use is contraindicated in patients with established severe heart failure, severe hepatic failure, or severe renal failure, or active GI bleeding/ulceration.

Exposure- and Duration-Related Patterns

The regulatory safety profile notes that the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding is higher with increasing dose and duration of use. Furthermore, the highest risk for serious skin reactions (SJS/TEN) tends to occur early in the course of treatment.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose with Hifenac-P requires immediate medical attention and hospitalization due to the potential for severe, life-threatening outcomes associated with both active components. Documented initial manifestations may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, pallor, and diaphoresis. Overdosage may progress to severe signs such as headache, disorientation, convulsions, and respiratory depression.

The most critical concerns are the documented risks of acute hepatic failure and subsequent hepatic necrosis from the Paracetamol component, and acute renal failure and gastrointestinal haemorrhage from the Aceclofenac component. In the event of suspected overdose, Acetylcysteine (N-acetylcysteine) is the required antidote for Paracetamol toxicity and must be administered without delay, alongside procedures like activated charcoal to reduce absorption. Treatment is otherwise symptomatic and supportive.

Official guidance mandates close medical supervision and monitoring of liver function and renal function due to delayed toxicity risks. No specific antidote is known for the Aceclofenac component. Severity may be increased in elderly patients and those with pre-existing hepatic or renal impairment or chronic alcohol use.

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Therapeutic Uses of Hifenac-P

Hifenac-P is commonly used to help with symptoms related to physical discomfort, systemic imbalance, and inflammatory states. This Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) preparation is commonly used across therapeutic domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to help manage acute or episodic discomfort. The combination may be considered relevant for easing symptoms related to inflammatory and pain conditions, including Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, soft tissue inflammation, and acute localized aches such as toothache and headache.

The Aceclofenac with Paracetamol combination is indicated for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and the relief of pain and inflammation associated with acute musculoskeletal disorders, soft tissue inflammation, and dental or minor surgical procedures.

The FDC preparation is applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, which supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress when symptoms interfere with routine activities.

“It contributes to easing the overall symptom load and is applied in addressing the symptom cluster of pain, swelling, and fever often seen in acute episodes.”


Easing Musculoskeletal and Acute Discomfort

This combination may be part of symptomatic management for conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms; it is used when groups of symptoms appear suddenly or fluctuate, including joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Furthermore, it is considered relevant for easing symptoms related to systemic imbalance, specifically assisting with managing fever and the accompanying generalized body aches. This application supports patients during episodes of heightened discomfort.

Quick Fact: Relief for Pain, Inflammation, and Fever

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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Profile for Hifenac-P

This section outlines the population eligibility and non-eligibility rules for Hifenac-P (Aceclofenac/Paracetamol combination), as strictly documented in official government regulatory information.

Contraindications (Must Not Use)

Individuals are contraindicated from using Hifenac-P if they have:

  • Known Hypersensitivity to Aceclofenac, Paracetamol, other NSAIDs, or any component.
  • Active gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
  • Severe impairment of the heart, liver (hepatic), or kidneys (renal).
  • A history where NSAIDs trigger asthma, bronchospasm, or urticaria.
  • Are in the last three months of pregnancy (Third Trimester).

Restricted or Conditional Use

Use is restricted and requires special medical consultation and surveillance for certain populations:

  • Elderly patients and individuals with mild renal or hepatic impairment; use must be closely monitored, often requiring the lowest effective dose.
  • Patients with a history of gastrointestinal ulceration or inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Those with heart conditions (other than severe failure) or high blood pressure.

Age and Physiological Status

The medicine is not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age due to insufficient data. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding women and should be used with caution, if at all, during the first six months of pregnancy.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Hifenac-P is a fixed-dose combination product containing aceclofenac (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID) and paracetamol. The interaction profile is defined by the known risks associated with both components.

Do Not Combine

  • Other paracetamol-containing products or other NSAIDs (including aspirin or ibuprofen) due to a significant risk of toxicity and increased frequency of serious side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding or liver damage.

Interacting Medicinal Product Classes and Agents

  • Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) and antiplatelet drugs (e.g., clopidogrel, aspirin): Increased risk of bleeding or hemorrhage due to the aceclofenac component.
  • Antihypertensives (drugs for high blood pressure): Aceclofenac may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of these medicines.
  • Diuretics (water pills, e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide): Reduced diuretic activity and increased risk of kidney impairment.
  • Corticosteroids: Increased risk of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding.
  • Lithium, digoxin, methotrexate: Aceclofenac may increase the plasma concentration of these agents, necessitating dose monitoring.
  • Ciclosporin/Tacrolimus: Increased risk of kidney toxicity.
  • Antidiabetic drugs: Caution is advised, as co-administration may lead to rare instances of hypo- or hyperglycemia.
  • Hepatotoxic drugs and hepatic enzyme inducers (e.g., barbiturates, carbamazepine, rifampin): These agents can increase the potential for paracetamol-related liver toxicity. Alcohol consumption also significantly increases the risk of severe liver damage.
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Mechanism of Action

Dual-Action Modulation of Prostaglandin Synthesis

Hifenac-P operates through a mechanistic synergy by modulating signaling across two complementary pathways: peripheral and central. The Aceclofenac component acts primarily by inhibiting Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in peripheral tissues, which suppresses the synthesis of prostaglandins—key mediators that sensitize peripheral nociceptors and mediate local inflammatory signaling. The Paracetamol component selectively modulates COX activity primarily within the Central Nervous System (CNS), which decreases central prostaglandin concentrations and modulates the central processing of nociceptive signals. This combined mechanism initiates and suppresses signaling sequences that lead to downstream effects across different physiological compartments.

Central Thermoregulatory and Nociceptive Control

The mechanism of Paracetamol extends to the hypothalamic thermoregulatory centers in the brain. By reducing prostaglandin influence in this area, the mechanism facilitates the return of the hypothalamic set point to a baseline state, which promotes heat dissipation mechanisms. Furthermore, Paracetamol's action includes neuromodulation of descending serotonergic pathways and the endocannabinoid system, altering signaling dynamics in the spinal cord and brain. This dual central mechanism contributes to the attenuation of excessive neural signaling, which shapes the final output of the central thermoregulatory and nociceptive pathways.

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Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines for Hifenac-P

These instructions outline the standard procedures for administering Hifenac-P (a combination of Aceclofenac and Paracetamol).

Administration Scope Procedural Requirements
Route and Form Oral administration of the tablet.
Standard Adult Dose One tablet, to be taken twice daily (e.g., morning and evening). The maximum recommended daily intake is two tablets.
Timing in Relation to Meals Should be taken preferably with or after food/milk.
Preparation Swallow the tablet whole with a sufficient quantity of liquid. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
Course Duration Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.

Rules for Specific Populations

  • Hepatic Impairment: The official initial dose should be reduced to one tablet daily for patients with impaired hepatic function.
  • Elderly Patients: While dose frequency modification is often not required, the lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration. Caution should be exercised, and the patient should be monitored.
  • Children: The use of this combination tablet is not recommended in children due to a lack of clinical data.

Instructions for Missed Doses

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is near the time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed one.

These labeled instructions establish the necessary procedural framework—a twice-daily schedule and a strict daily limit—to standardize the use of the medicine. The instructions mandate specific modifications for populations like those with liver impairment, ensuring the administration protocol adapts to safety constraints.

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Recent Clinical Evidence

Hifenac-P: Recent Clinical Evidence

The fixed-dose combination of Aceclofenac (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID) and Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen, an analgesic and antipyretic) has been the subject of multiple clinical trials, primarily focusing on its role in musculoskeletal and acute pain management. The combination is indicated for the relief of pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and ankylosing spondylitis.

Efficacy Findings

Research has explored the pain relief properties of the Aceclofenac-Paracetamol combination, particularly in comparison to the individual components or other single-agent therapies.

  • Osteoarthritis: A comparative, randomized, open-label study involving patients with painful OA flare-ups found that the combination demonstrated more rapid pain relief during the initial hours of treatment when compared to Aceclofenac monotherapy. However, at the final assessment point of ten days, both treatments were observed to be comparable in terms of average pain intensity and changes in validated scoring systems (e.g., WOMAC scores).
  • Post-Operative Pain: Studies have compared the combination to other analgesic regimens for managing acute post-operative pain. Research suggests that the Aceclofenac-Paracetamol combination may be similarly effective to an Opioid-Paracetamol combination (specifically Tramadol-Paracetamol) in managing pain scores 24 hours post-surgery.

Safety and Tolerability

Adverse events reported in clinical trials for the combination often relate to the gastrointestinal system, which is common for NSAID-containing products. Common reported side effects have included nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, indigestion, and diarrhea. The combination of the two agents is sometimes favored due to the potential for a synergistic effect, which may allow for a reduction in the dose of the individual components, possibly influencing the overall tolerability profile compared to higher doses of Aceclofenac alone.


Note: Clinical evidence provides information on observed effects and comparative findings in specific patient populations under trial conditions. It does not replace the advice or prescription of a qualified healthcare professional.

Key Studies & References

  1. A Review of Aceclofenac: Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects on Musculoskeletal Disorders
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Hifenac-P (FAQ)

Q: How long can I safely take Hifenac-P?

Official regulatory guidance advises that this medicine should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to manage symptoms. Official product information indicates that the risk of serious side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding or heart-related events, may increase with a higher dose and longer duration of use. A healthcare professional is the appropriate source to periodically re-evaluate the need for continued use.

Q: Can Hifenac-P be safely used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Regulatory documents state that Hifenac-P is contraindicated, meaning it must not be used, during the last three months of pregnancy (the third trimester). Use of the drug during the first six months of pregnancy and while breastfeeding is not recommended. The official product information indicates that use during these times requires special medical consideration.

Q: What are the signs of a serious side effect, like liver damage or a heart problem, that I should watch out for?

Official information lists several serious risks. Signs that have been associated with internal bleeding include dark, tarry stools or vomiting blood. Severe skin reactions may appear as rashes or lesions on the skin or in the mouth. The product information also notes the risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as a heart attack or stroke. If serious changes are observed, the regulatory label advises discontinuing the drug and immediately seeking professional medical attention.

Q: Is Hifenac-P a narcotic or an addictive painkiller?

The medicine is classified as a combination of a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and an Analgesic/Antipyretic (Paracetamol). Regulatory documents classify the active components based on their pharmacological mechanism of action, which is distinct from opioid-based painkillers. It is not classified as a narcotic, and official labeling does not carry a warning related to opioid dependence.

Q: How long does it take for Hifenac-P to start working?

Official pharmacokinetic data indicates how quickly the active ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream. The paracetamol component generally reaches its highest concentration in the blood within 30 minutes to 2 hours. The aceclofenac component typically reaches its peak concentration within 1.25 to 3 hours. These peak times represent when the highest concentration of the active ingredients is expected in the bloodstream.

Q: What is the difference between an NSAID and an analgesic?

The drug's profile highlights that it combines an NSAID (Aceclofenac) and an Analgesic/Antipyretic (Paracetamol). Regulatory-cited mechanisms show that NSAIDs primarily reduce pain by reducing inflammation throughout the body. In contrast, the analgesic component (Paracetamol) mainly relieves pain and reduces fever by acting on the Central Nervous System, with minimal anti-inflammatory effect.

Q: Do I need a prescription to get Hifenac-P?

The active ingredient Aceclofenac is generally categorized as a prescription-only medicine (POM) or Rx-only in major regulatory jurisdictions. Therefore, the Hifenac-P combination product typically requires a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional before it can be legally dispensed.

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How should Hifenac-P be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Hifenac-P

Official regulatory information requires specific conditions to maintain the stability and quality of Hifenac-P (Aceclofenac and Paracetamol combination).

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store in a cool, dry place, at a temperature not exceeding 30°C.
Environmental Must be protected from light and moisture.
Handling Keep the medicine in its original container or blister pack and ensure it is out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

When disposing of expired or unused Hifenac-P, follow local government guidelines for pharmaceutical waste. Do not dispose of the medicine in household trash or by flushing it down the toilet or drain, as this prevents environmental contamination and release into waterways.

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

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