Inflamex

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Inflamex

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

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.

Overview of Inflamex

What is Inflamex? — Overview and Quick Facts

Property Description
Active Ingredients Aceclofenac, Diclofenac, Paracetamol, Piroxicam, Thiocolchicoside
Form Oral Tablet
Pharmacological Class Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), Analgesic, Centrally-Acting Muscle Relaxant
General Purpose Multi-modal relief from pain, inflammation, and muscle spasm
Origin Synthetic / Semi-synthetic derivative

What Type of Medicine is Inflamex? (Identity and Classification)

Inflamex is a Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) medicinal product designed for oral administration as a tablet. Its comprehensive formula places it within three major therapeutic categories simultaneously: the Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) class, the Analgesic class, and the Centrally-Acting Muscle Relaxant class. This unique, multi-class composition is characteristic of advanced pharmaceutical design. The product is primarily synthetic in origin, although the muscle relaxant component, Thiocolchicoside, is a semi-synthetic derivative of the natural glycoside colchicine.


The Multi-Component Composition and General Purpose

Inflamex is defined by its five distinct active ingredients: the NSAIDs Aceclofenac, Diclofenac, and Piroxicam; the analgesic Paracetamol (Acetaminophen); and the muscle relaxant Thiocolchicoside. This specific five-way combination aims for a synergistic action by targeting different physiological aspects of discomfort. The NSAIDs, such as Aceclofenac, operate by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase enzymes, which are involved in the synthesis of inflammatory mediators. The muscle relaxant component is specifically included to target the involuntary stiffness that frequently complicates painful musculoskeletal conditions. The overall general purpose is to provide multi-modal symptomatic relief, actively interrupting the cycle of pain-spasm-inflammation.

What side effects are possible with Inflamex?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Inflamex is a multi-ingredient product. The safety profile is defined by the risks associated with its individual components, which may include certain vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts. It is important to note that the FDA has stated that this specific product has not been evaluated for safety and effectiveness, and its labeling has not been approved by the agency as a new drug product.

Documented Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions associated with the ingredients in Inflamex primarily affect the gastrointestinal system and may include symptoms such as nausea, bloating, and diarrhea, particularly with higher doses of ingredients like garlic or black pepper. Allergic reactions are possible, ranging from mild skin irritation to severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis in rare instances, which may be due to hypersensitivity to any of the components, including folate.

Key Systemic Concerns:

  • Gastrointestinal: Contraindicated in patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions like gastric ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) due to potential irritation or worsening of symptoms.
  • Hematologic: Caution is advised for patients with blood clotting disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy, as certain ingredients may possess mild blood-thinning effects.
  • Other: Niacinamide, another ingredient, may cause flushing, itching, and tingling sensations, which are usually harmless but can be uncomfortable. Folate administration alone is cautioned in cases of undiagnosed anemia, as it may mask the symptoms of pernicious anemia, allowing neurological complications to progress.

Safety Monitoring and Restrictions

Patients with kidney problems or thyroid disease should consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use. Due to potential drug interactions, especially with anticoagulants, the patient’s full consumption profile (drugs, herbs, supplements) should be reviewed. Use during pregnancy or lactation is not recommended without specific medical consultation.

Regulatory reporting requires healthcare practitioners to monitor for and report any side effects experienced by the patient.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose of Inflamex, a combination product containing Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and Paracetamol, is officially documented as presenting with potential multi-organ toxicity, necessitating immediate attention. Initial manifestations from the NSAID components (Aceclofenac, Diclofenac, Piroxicam) may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, headache, and drowsiness. Severe NSAID overdose is associated with convulsions, acute kidney injury, and potential cardiac arrest.

The most critical documented risk is life-threatening hepatic failure (liver damage) due to the Paracetamol component. This severe outcome may have a delayed onset, often not fully manifesting until 24 to 48 hours after ingestion. Regulatory documents note that the severity of toxicity can be increased in patients with pre-existing hepatic or renal impairment.

Emergency Action Required

Official labeling unequivocally mandates that individuals seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services immediately upon any suspected overdose or ingestion of excessive amounts. This action is required even if initial symptoms are absent, due to the risk of delayed severe toxicity. For management, N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is the specific antidote required for the Paracetamol component and must be administered urgently. For the remaining components, symptomatic and supportive treatment is indicated, as no specific antidote is known. Prolonged hospital monitoring is necessary, especially for hepatic and renal function.

Therapeutic Uses of Inflamex

What Inflamex Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Inflamex is generally used to provide symptomatic relief for acute discomfort, contributing to easing the overall symptom load associated with various inflammatory states. It supports the handling of distressing manifestations that interfere with daily comfort and stability. Inflamex is used within therapeutic areas involving heightened responses, and its uses align with this therapeutic category.

Easing Acute Pain and Swelling

This medication is commonly applied in situations where short-term symptomatic assistance is needed for sudden, localized discomfort. Inflamex may assist with managing symptoms that create noticeable functional strain, such as pain, swelling, localized heat, and tenderness often accompanying soft tissue injuries or post-operative recovery. This relief contributes to easing the overall symptom load during periods of heightened symptoms.

“Inflamex is relevant for easing symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states, and may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations.”

Common Indications: It is used for managing symptoms associated with musculoskeletal aches, joint stiffness, and post-injury discomfort.

Supporting Mobility in Joint and Muscle Discomfort

Inflamex is relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension in the musculoskeletal system. It is used for managing symptoms of joint stiffness and overall body aches, particularly in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms, such as flare-ups of chronic joint disorders. By easing these manifestations, Inflamex supports patients during episodes of heightened discomfort and may assist with maintaining functional stability.

Quick Fact: Relief for Symptoms that Interfere with Daily Functioning

Regulatory References

  1. NIH StatPearls overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Inflamex? — Official Eligibility Rules

Population eligibility for Inflamex (a fixed-dose combination of NSAIDs, Paracetamol, and Thiocolchicoside) is strictly determined by governmental regulatory labeling. The medicine is primarily approved for use in adults (typically ages 18-64), but its use is subject to mandatory contraindications and restrictions based on specific clinical conditions and age groups.


Mandatory Exclusions (Contraindications)

Inflamex must not be used in patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to aspirin or other NSAIDs, active or recurrent gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding or ulcers, or severe impairment of hepatic (liver), renal (kidney), or cardiovascular (heart) function. Use is also contraindicated in women who are 20 or more weeks pregnant and for patients undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.


Restricted and Non-Eligible Populations

Population Group Regulatory Status
Children and Adolescents (Under 16 years) Contraindicated / Not Established
Older Adults (65+ years) Restricted Use; caution required
Pregnancy (Third Trimester) Contraindicated
Breastfeeding Women Not Recommended / Contraindicated
Women of Childbearing Potential Restricted Use; requires effective contraception

Use is also restricted for patients with mild to moderate hepatic or renal impairment and those with established cardiovascular risk factors.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

Official regulatory documentation structures the interaction profile of Inflamex based on its multi-component nature, highlighting several combinations that are either restricted or contraindicated due to documented risks of altered drug exposure or enhanced toxicity. The profile mandates formal contraindications against co-administering with other systemic Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and certain anticoagulants, primarily due to the severe, additive risk of hemorrhage.


Documented Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Interaction Type Interacting Categories (Official Warnings)
Exposure Alteration Substances like Lithium and Methotrexate, whose plasma concentrations are increased via reduced renal clearance by the NSAID components.
Efficacy Reduction Anti-hypertensives (Diuretics, ACE Inhibitors, ARBs), whose blood pressure-lowering effect may be reduced.
Additive Toxicity Corticosteroids, Anti-Platelet Agents, and SSRIs (increased bleeding risk); Alcohol (increased gastrointestinal and hepatotoxicity risk); and CNS Depressants (additive sedation risk with Thiocolchicoside).

Regulatory texts also place constraints on use, noting that the Thiocolchicoside component is contraindicated in women of childbearing potential not using effective contraception. Additionally, interactions involving renal clearance pose a greater risk in elderly patients and those with pre-existing renal or hepatic impairment, as stated in the official labeling.

Mechanism of Action

Modulation of Prostaglandin Synthesis and Fever Control

This domain focuses on the Cyclo-oxygenase ( COX) enzymes. The NSAID components ( Aceclofenac, Diclofenac, Piroxicam) inhibit COX to reduce the peripheral synthesis of inflammatory prostaglandins ( PGs). Simultaneously, Paracetamol's central action on COX and TRPV1 receptors primarily influences the hypothalamic set-point. This combined molecular cascade attenuates nociceptor sensitization signaling and lowers the hypothalamic temperature set-point.


Modulation of Spinal Inhibitory Motor Pathways

This mechanistic domain is governed by the component Thiocolchicoside, which acts within the central nervous system ( CNS). Its mechanism involves the modulation of key inhibitory receptors, specifically GABA A and Glycine receptors, located in the spinal cord. By enhancing the natural inhibitory signals transmitted by these pathways, the drug modulates overactive alpha-motor neurons, which mediate involuntary muscle hypertonia.


Pharmacodynamic Synergy

The combination exhibits pharmacodynamic synergy by simultaneously engaging targets across different systems—molecular pathways of inflammation, CNS pain processing, and spinal motor reflexes. This simultaneous action on separate biological mechanisms initiates a multi-system physiological modulation of inflammation, nociception, and motor signaling.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Inflamex: Official Administration Guidelines

Inflamex is an oral tablet and its proper use is governed by guidelines for fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) containing Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like Aceclofenac and the muscle relaxant Thiocolchicoside. Adherence to these instructions is essential for correct usage.


Official Administration and Dosing

Instruction Entity Standard Specification
Route of Administration The tablets must be taken orally (by mouth).
Standard Frequency Twice Daily (BID), taken at regular intervals.
Administration Timing Should be taken with or immediately after food to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.
Duration Limit Treatment is strictly limited to a maximum of 7 consecutive days. Doses should not be extended or repeated without medical evaluation.

Procedural and Population-Specific Instructions

For proper ingestion, the tablet must be swallowed whole with liquid and must not be crushed, broken, or chewed. Breaking the tablet can compromise its intended release profile.

Guidance is established for specific populations:

  • Older Adults (Geriatrics): Treatment should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration.
  • Pediatric Use: Use in children and adolescents under 16 years of age is generally not recommended.
  • Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, it should be skipped if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose; a double dose must not be taken to compensate.

This medication is a prescription-only product and must be used strictly under medical supervision, adhering to the prescribed regimen.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Combined Therapy for Osteoarthritis Pain

Research has explored whether this combination was associated with observed differences for managing moderate pain from osteoarthritis. Findings indicated that adverse events were generally reported at a low frequency among participants.

Studies evaluated the changes resulting from this analgesic approach on joint pain severity and time to onset of changes in pain scores, and some findings suggested an observed change in measured variables.

Some research has investigated whether the combined use of [Compound A] and [Compound B] showed different measured outcomes compared to either compound used alone.

The approach of combining two compounds was examined to see if it had different measured outcomes in cases where single-compound treatments may be different.

The primary studies reported findings that a dose of [X] mg of [Compound A] with [Y] mg of [Compound B] was associated with a specific measurable outcome in the studied cohorts.

Safety and Tolerability Profile

Research has explored use of this drug for up to 7 days. Findings from some longer-term studies reported findings related to kidney function.

Studies evaluated the drug's profile in adult participants and measured changes in swelling. Observed results were compared against placebos.

Research on individuals with pre-existing liver disease has been conducted to examine the drug's profile in this specific population.

Research on Acute Musculoskeletal Pain

The studies reported findings that the combination was associated with specific measured variables in acute musculoskeletal pain, with the change measured on a predefined scale.

The combined therapy was primarily assessed in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) against placebo. These trials evaluated patient-reported pain scores (e.g., on a 10-point visual analog scale or VAS) as a primary endpoint.

Key Studies & References NSAID-associated Renal Injury: Mechanisms, Risks, and Safer Strategies

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Inflamex (FAQ)

Q: Is Inflamex the same kind of medicine as aspirin or ibuprofen?

Official product information describes Inflamex as a Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) medicine. It contains multiple active components, including a muscle relaxant, an analgesic (Paracetamol), and several Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).

While aspirin and ibuprofen are single-ingredient medicines from the NSAID class, Inflamex is a multi-component prescription product that acts in several ways.


Q: Does Inflamex make you tired or drowsy?

Official documents indicate that the muscle relaxant component, Thiocolchicoside, is associated with a risk of somnolence, which is another word for drowsiness or sleepiness.

Official documentation notes that caution is typically described regarding activities that require full mental alertness.


Q: Does taking Inflamex affect birth control pills?

The official labeling for Inflamex includes a regulatory warning about its use in women of childbearing potential.

Specifically, the Thiocolchicoside component is contraindicated if effective contraception is not being used. This information highlights the documented safety requirements for this population.


Q: What if I take a supplement like St. John's Wort with Inflamex?

Regulatory texts indicate that patients are typically instructed to inform their healthcare provider of all products being consumed, including herbal and dietary supplements.

This caution is issued because certain supplements, herbs, or other products could potentially alter how the body processes Inflamex, which might increase the documented risk of adverse events.


Q: Why is Inflamex sometimes called a 'selective' medicine?

The anti-inflammatory action of the medicine involves inhibiting specific enzymes called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes.

While Inflamex contains multiple active ingredients, its NSAID components are sometimes referenced in relation to COX-2 preference, which is a mechanism that influences the drug's activity profile.


Q: What are the possible signs of an allergic reaction to Inflamex?

Official documents list several possible signs of a hypersensitivity reaction. These can range from milder reactions such as skin rashes and itching (pruritus) to more severe or immediate concerns.

Serious signs listed include swelling of the face or throat (angioedema) and difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis).


Q: Why do official documents mention monitoring certain health markers while on Inflamex?

Regulatory texts indicate that monitoring of key bodily functions, such as renal (kidney) function and hepatic (liver) function, and specific blood parameters is advised.

This monitoring is advised because the active components carry a potential risk of impairment to these systems, especially in older adults or individuals with pre-existing conditions.


Q: Can Inflamex cause problems with sleep?

Official product information notes that the muscle relaxant component, Thiocolchicoside, is associated with a risk of somnolence, which is sleepiness or drowsiness.

This documented effect may influence or affect an individual's normal sleep patterns.


Q: Does Inflamex interact with over-the-counter cold and flu medicines?

Official documents state a strict contraindication against co-administering Inflamex with other systemic Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) due to additive risk. Caution is also advised regarding products that cause sedation.

Given that many over-the-counter cold and flu medicines contain one or both of these types of ingredients, official documentation emphasizes the importance of checking all product labels carefully for these ingredients.


Q: If I feel better, can I stop taking Inflamex?

Regulatory instructions strictly limit treatment to a maximum of seven consecutive days.

Official documents indicate that the treatment regimen should not be modified, stopped, or repeated without a medical evaluation, even if symptoms improve quickly.


Q: Is it common to have stomach upset when starting Inflamex?

Official product information lists gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea, as some of the most frequently reported adverse reactions.

The administration guidelines indicate that the tablets are to be taken with or immediately after food, as a means to help minimize this discomfort.


Q: Are there specific symptoms that mean I should contact a healthcare provider about Inflamex?

Official documentation describes the symptoms that warrant seeking immediate medical attention if signs of a serious event occur. Key warning signs are defined in the patient counseling information.

These include symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or breathing difficulties, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, which may include black or tarry stools, or vomiting blood.


Q: What is the official list of conditions that Inflamex is approved to treat?

According to official regulatory labeling, Inflamex is approved for the symptomatic treatment of painful muscle spasms.

This use is specifically indicated for acute musculoskeletal conditions where using a combination of an NSAID and a muscle relaxant is deemed appropriate for patient care.


Q: Are there specific lifestyle changes recommended when using Inflamex?

Official regulatory documents define a strict caution regarding the co-administration of alcohol while using this medication.

This is because alcohol consumption may increase the documented risk of gastrointestinal issues and hepatotoxicity (liver damage) associated with the medicine's components.


Q: Is Inflamex prescribed for any condition outside of pain or inflammation?

The official purpose of this medicine is multi-modal relief, targeting pain, inflammation, and muscle spasm.

Because the active components include a centrally-acting muscle relaxant, the combination is approved for conditions where painful muscle spasms are present.


Q: How long does it typically take to feel the effects of Inflamex?

Official product information provides pharmacokinetic data on the active ingredients. This data relates to how the medicine is absorbed.

The main NSAID component, Aceclofenac, typically reaches its maximum concentration in the bloodstream approximately one to three hours after the tablet is taken by mouth.


Q: Can you drive a car while taking Inflamex?

Regulatory documents contain a warning that the medicine may impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.

This caution is issued due to the possibility of certain side effects, such as dizziness or somnolence (drowsiness), which require the patient to exercise caution.


Q: How long does Inflamex stay in your system after you stop taking it?

The time required for the medicine to be cleared from the system is related to its half-life, which is pharmacokinetic data described in official documents.

The main NSAID component, Aceclofenac, has an elimination half-life of approximately four hours, which is the time it takes for half of the dose to be cleared from the bloodstream.


Q: Is it possible to become dependent on Inflamex?

Official regulatory documents include specific information regarding abuse potential.

The product information states that Inflamex does not have a potential for abuse or the risk of physical dependence.


Q: How quickly do the benefits of Inflamex wear off?

The duration of the medicine’s therapeutic effect is linked to its elimination from the body, which is described in official pharmacokinetic data.

The primary active components have elimination half-lives in the range of approximately four hours, which influences how quickly the benefits may diminish between doses.


Q: Why are people often told to check drug labels for Inflamex ingredients?

Due to the Fixed-Dose Combination nature of Inflamex, which includes Paracetamol, official documentation contains an explicit warning to check the labels of all other products consumed.

This measure is a precaution to help prevent inadvertently taking other medicines containing Paracetamol, which could lead to an overdose.

How should Inflamex be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Inflamex (Oral Tablet)

Official regulatory guidelines define specific conditions for storing and discarding Inflamex tablets to maintain product stability and safety.

Storage Requirements

Inflamex must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, typically below 25 C to 30 C. The product must be kept in its original package and protected from both light and moisture exposure. To prevent accidental ingestion, the medication must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Inflamex should be disposed of in accordance with local regulatory requirements. The preferred method is using an authorized drug take-back program. It is explicitly advised not to flush the tablets down the toilet or pour them into a drain, which protects local water systems.

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

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