Novalgin-NU

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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.

Overview of Novalgin-NU

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredients Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) and Caffeine
Form Oral Tablet
Pharmacological class Non-Opioid Analgesic, Antipyretic
General Purpose Symptomatic relief of pain and fever
Type/Origin Synthetic, Fixed-ratio combination

Novalgin-NU: Definition and Pharmacological Classification

Novalgin-NU is an oral fixed-dose combination medication presented as a Tablet, manufactured by Sanofi Consumer Healthcare India Limited. It is fundamentally classified as a Non-Opioid Analgesic and an Antipyretic, designed for the general symptomatic relief of pain and elevated body temperature.

The inclusion of Acetaminophen (Paracetamol) supports its primary analgesic and antipyretic functions, a clinically recognized role. This synthetic formulation is positioned for patients seeking a medication that offers combined relief beyond what a single-ingredient tablet provides.

Composition and Synergistic Analgesic Type

The formulation relies on the two active components: Acetaminophen and Caffeine. While Acetaminophen is the principal agent managing the pain and fever, Caffeine is included as a pharmacological adjuvant to enhance the therapeutic benefit.

Pharmacological data indicates that the efficacy of this specific pairing provides a superior effect compared to Acetaminophen used alone. This supports the conclusion that the fixed-ratio combination is an established strategy for optimizing the analgesic effect.

General Purpose and Therapeutic Rationale

The general purpose of Novalgin-NU is to provide comprehensive symptomatic relief for common discomforts, such as tension headaches. The therapeutic rationale is based on the known ability of Caffeine to accelerate the absorption and enhance the antinociceptive (pain-blocking) effect of Acetaminophen, thus providing more robust relief.

This evidence shows that the fixed-dose combination is a targeted, efficient strategy for addressing both pain signal reduction and fever regulation simultaneously in a single oral preparation for the general adult population.

Regulatory References

  1. World Health Organization's Model List of Essential Medicines

What side effects are possible with Novalgin-NU?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Novalgin-NU, based on authoritative government regulatory documents, defines specific risks across several body systems, with a focus on rare but serious adverse events.

Serious Adverse Reactions (Regulatory-Documented)

The most critical documented risks include:

  • Agranulocytosis and Pancytopenia: A rare, potentially fatal reduction in white blood cells (agranulocytosis) or all blood cells (pancytopenia). This is an immune-allergic reaction not tied to the dose and can occur at any time during or shortly after treatment (metamizole-containing formulations).
  • Hepatotoxicity and Acute Liver Failure: Severe liver damage, potentially fatal, particularly associated with overdose of the paracetamol component. Acute hepatitis and liver injury are also documented with metamizole use.
  • Severe Hypersensitivity: Life-threatening reactions, including Anaphylactic Shock and severe blistering skin disorders like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are classified by frequency, including those listed as Very Rare or Not Known. Examples include insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, increased heart rate, gastric disorders, and various blood and skin disorders.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations and Restrictions

Regulatory documents outline specific restrictions for vulnerable groups:

Population Group Restriction or Caution
Pregnancy Contraindicated in the third trimester (metamizole); Not recommended due to caffeine (paracetamol/caffeine).
Infants/Children Contraindicated for infants below the age of 3 months or 5 kg (metamizole).
Pre-existing Conditions Contraindicated in cases of severe liver/renal impairment or compromised bone marrow function.

Patients are advised to immediately stop the medicine and seek urgent medical care if they experience symptoms suggestive of blood disorders (e.g., fever, sore throat) or severe skin reactions (e.g., rash, blistering). Due to the risk of severe liver damage, regulatory agencies mandate that patients avoid taking other products containing paracetamol concurrently.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Novalgin-NU contains both Metamizole and Caffeine. Taking more than the prescribed dose, whether accidentally or intentionally, constitutes an overdose and requires immediate medical attention. A Novalgin-NU overdose may lead to serious health complications, potentially including severe liver damage due to the Paracetamol component and other systemic effects from the Metamizole and Caffeine.

Signs of Overdose

Symptoms of a significant overdose may not appear immediately and can vary based on the amount ingested and individual health factors. Common reported signs associated with an overdose include:

  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Dizziness or Vertigo
  • Drowsiness or Confusion
  • Signs of liver damage (e.g., jaundice, dark urine)
  • Hypotension (a significant drop in blood pressure)

In severe cases, overdose can lead to seizures, acute kidney injury, or a critical reduction in blood cell counts. The primary concern with a Metamizole overdose is circulatory collapse and acute kidney or liver failure.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Call for emergency medical services immediately if you suspect an overdose, even if no symptoms are present. Do not wait for symptoms to develop. Provide the healthcare professionals with information about the drug taken, the amount, and the time of ingestion. Overdose management is primarily supportive and may involve measures to limit drug absorption, such as activated charcoal, and the administration of specific antidotes for the Paracetamol component.

Therapeutic Uses of Novalgin-NU

The therapeutic scope of this combination is primarily focused on mild to moderate acute pain that manifests episodically. It is commonly used to help with symptomatic relief in situations where patients experience discomfort from conditions including headache, backache, migraine, sore throat, rheumatism, menstrual cramps, toothache, muscle sprains, and the malaise associated with cold and flu. The therapeutic benefit generally assists with easing the symptom load.

The medication is applied across therapeutic domains involving heightened symptomatic tension, and is considered relevant for easing general aches and discomfort arising from the body's structure. The combination may assist with maintaining functional stability when acute symptoms interfere with routine activities, contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.


Quick Fact: Relief for Episodic Pain & Fever

Symptom Category Relevance
Pain Severity Mild to Moderate
Symptom Domains Addressed Analgesia & Antipyresis
Primary Use Context Acute Symptom Management
Patient Benefit Assists Functional Stability

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

This section summarizes the official population eligibility and non-eligibility information for Novalgin-NU (a combination of Paracetamol and Caffeine) based strictly on governmental regulatory documents.

Populations for whom use is Contraindicated (Must Not Use):

  • Patients with hypersensitivity or a known allergy to Paracetamol, Caffeine, or any of the inactive ingredients.
  • Individuals with severe hepatocellular insufficiency (severe liver impairment).
  • Those with kidney damage associated with the long-term use of painkillers (Analgesic Nephropathy).

Conditional Use and Restricted Groups:

  • Age: Use is not recommended for children under 12 years of age as sufficient clinical safety and efficacy data are not established for this group.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to the caffeine component. Use during breastfeeding is also not recommended or requires medical supervision, as the drug's components can pass into breast milk.
  • Comorbidities: Caution and medical advice are mandatory for patients with moderate liver impairment, severe renal (kidney) impairment, chronic alcohol use, malnutrition, or pre-existing anxiety disorders and arrhythmia.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Contraindicated Combinations and Exposure Restrictions

It is strictly prohibited to co-administer this product with any other medicinal product that contains Acetaminophen (paracetamol) to prevent the risk of accidental overdose and severe liver injury. Regulatory labeling also mandates caution regarding substance co-exposure: consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks per day is formally noted to increase the risk of severe hepatotoxicity, and use is contraindicated in patients with severe active liver disease.

Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Effects

Interaction patterns are documented across several medication classes. The medication may alter the effects of anticoagulants such as Warfarin, leading to a pharmacodynamic enhancement that increases the potential for bleeding. Certain enzyme-inducing agents, including anticonvulsants like Phenytoin and Carbamazepine, may increase the risk of Acetaminophen-related toxicity by altering its metabolism. Conversely, the co-administration of strong CYP1A2 inhibitors, such as specific antibiotics, may reduce the clearance of the Caffeine component, leading to an increase in its plasma concentration.

Food and Stimulant Interactions

Regulatory documents advise limiting the intake of dietary Caffeine from sources like coffee, tea, and energy drinks to avoid additive CNS stimulant effects, which are documented to include nervousness and occasional rapid heart rate. Caution regarding the stimulant properties of the medication is also noted for populations with significant cardiovascular impairment.

Mechanism of Action

Central Analgesia and Thermoregulation

This domain covers the paracetamol component, which works primarily by acting as an inhibitor of Cyclooxygenase enzymes within the Central Nervous System (CNS), thereby reducing the production of pain and fever-mediating prostaglandins. The mechanism contributes to modifying the activity of central pain pathways and influencing the hypothalamic temperature set-point .


Targeted Cerebral Vasoconstriction

This mechanism is mediated by caffeine, which acts as an antagonist of Adenosine Receptors in the brain. By blocking the natural vasodilatory action of adenosine, this pathway modulates intracranial vascular tone, a mechanism relevant to certain states of vascular dysregulation .


Enhanced Systemic Availability

This supporting mechanism involves caffeine altering the physicochemical environment to enhance the rate and extent of paracetamol absorption from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. This rapid absorption cascade results in an altered rate of systemic uptake and higher peak concentrations of the compound, influencing the compound's systemic profile.

Dosage and Administration Information

Standard Administration Guidelines for Novalgin-NU

Administration Scope and Dosage Rules

Novalgin-NU is an oral fixed-dose combination medication for which established protocols define boundaries for administration and use duration. The product is designated exclusively for oral administration as a tablet and must be swallowed whole without being crushed or broken.

The standard single dose for adults and children over 12 years of age is 1 tablet. The total daily intake must not exceed 6 tablets over a 24-hour period. This strict dosing constraint ensures the Acetaminophen component remains below the established 4000 mg maximum daily limit.


Frequency and Procedural Conditions

Dosing may be repeated up to 3 to 4 times a day, requiring a minimum interval of 4 hours between doses. The tablet may be taken with or without food. Novalgin-NU is intended for short-term use only, and continuous administration should not exceed 3 days without consulting a professional.

A critical procedural condition is the confirmation that paracetamol is absent from the composition of other concurrently taken medicinal products to prevent exceeding the recommended maximum dose. The medication is not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age. If a dose is missed, the protocol involves skipping the missed dose and resuming the normal schedule without doubling the next dose.


Key Usage Parameters

Parameter Instruction
Route Oral administration only
Maximum 24-Hour Dose 6 tablets
Minimum Dosing Interval 4 hours
Continuous Use Limit 3 days
Age Restriction Not recommended under 12 years

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of Studies for Novalgin-NU

This overview describes the scope of clinical research conducted on the Acetaminophen and Caffeine combination, focusing on study types, examined symptoms, and research limitations.


Evidence for Use in Acute Headache

Research exploring the use of this combination for acute tension-type headaches and migraine attacks primarily relies on short-term randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. These studies monitor patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort. Findings consistently report measured differences in patient-reported pain levels and the proportion of participants meeting the study criteria for pain-free status or symptom clearance at defined acute intervals (e.g., two hours). Studies report how symptoms evolved when compared against a placebo or Acetaminophen used alone.


Evidence for Use in Other Mild to Moderate Acute Pain

Research has examined the combination in various general acute pain scenarios, such as post-operative dental pain, relying on systematic reviews and meta-analyses. These reviews aggregate data from multiple smaller trials, where studies monitored outcomes reflecting daily functioning. Data show patterns related to the overall difference in pain scores across the aggregated pain types, which is consistent with the inclusion of Caffeine. However, data are still emerging for specific, non-headache indications like muscle sprains or general body aches.


Research Duration, Follow-up, and Special Patient Groups

The research base is limited to exploring short-term symptom changes over immediate hours (2 to 6 hours) following a single dose. There is limited information for long-term outcomes or the durability of measured differences for recurrent or chronic use. Studies primarily included the general adult population (ages 18 to 65). Data for certain groups, such as older adults and adolescents (under 18), remain insufficient, and the evidence base for patients with certain co-existing medical conditions is also limited.

Key Studies & References

  1. Revised Guidance Document: Acetaminophen Labelling Standard (Health Canada, 2016)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Novalgin-NU (FAQ)

Q: How quickly does Novalgin-NU start working for pain relief?

A: According to official product information, the inclusion of caffeine is described as promoting the rapid absorption of paracetamol. This mechanism is understood to promote a faster rate of drug uptake into the body compared to taking paracetamol alone.

Q: How long do the pain-relieving effects of Novalgin-NU typically last?

A: Studies and clinical research often monitor the acute effects of the combination medication. The typical research windows for observing symptom changes are over immediate hours, frequently ranging from 2 to 6 hours following a single dose.

Q: Can Novalgin-NU be taken while consuming caffeine in other drinks, like coffee or tea?

A: Regulatory documents state that intake of dietary caffeine from sources like coffee, tea, and energy drinks is advised to be limited or avoided. This precaution is advised to prevent additive effects, such as nervousness, due to the stimulant component of the medicine.

Q: Can Novalgin-NU affect the results of certain laboratory blood tests?

A: Official information indicates that this medication, or similar combinations, may interfere with some common laboratory tests. Specifically, this interference can occur in blood tests that use certain chemical reactions to measure substances.

Q: Can Novalgin-NU be crushed or chewed before swallowing?

A: No. Official administration instructions state that the tablet must be swallowed whole. The tablets should not be crushed, broken, or chewed to ensure the medication is administered as officially instructed.

Q: Are there specific warnings for people with a history of stomach problems or ulcers?

A: While the medication is not explicitly contraindicated, official guidance includes caution for individuals with certain conditions and suggests seeking medical advice prior to use, which is a common precaution with many analgesics.

Q: Is Novalgin-NU an opioid pain reliever?

A: No. Regulatory documents explicitly classify Novalgin-NU as a Non-Opioid Analgesic. This means that it is a pain reliever that does not contain any opioid substances.

Q: Can Novalgin-NU be used for all types of headaches, like migraines and tension headaches?

A: Official indications and the body of research focus on the use of this combination for the symptomatic relief of tension-type headaches and migraine attacks. The drug is not specifically indicated for all possible types of headaches.

Q: Is it possible to become dependent on Novalgin-NU with regular use?

A: Official warnings highlight the potential risk of developing a medicine-overuse headache if the drug is used regularly over time. Separately, the caffeine component is associated with potential physical tolerance and defined withdrawal symptoms upon abrupt cessation of chronic high intake.

Q: What is meant by a 'medicine-overuse headache' when discussing Novalgin-NU?

A: This term is used in official warnings to describe a type of headache that can paradoxically be caused or worsened by the repeated, regular use of acute pain medications. It is often cited as a reason for limiting continuous use to a short duration.

Q: Can Novalgin-NU affect blood pressure in some individuals?

A: The caffeine component in the medication is a Central Nervous System (CNS) stimulant. Official cautions state that this stimulating effect is associated with potential increases in heart rate or blood pressure in some individuals, particularly those with existing cardiovascular issues.

Q: What information should I share with a doctor before starting Novalgin-NU?

A: Information that should be shared includes any history of liver or kidney conditions, chronic alcohol use, anxiety disorders, or cardiovascular issues. Official guidance suggests informing a healthcare provider about all current medications being taken.

Q: What is the difference between Novalgin and Novalgin-NU?

A: Novalgin is a different product whose active ingredient is often Metamizole. In contrast, Novalgin-NU is a distinct, fixed-dose combination containing Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) and Caffeine.

Q: Does the use of Novalgin-NU affect driving ability?

A: Official regulatory documents address the ability to drive or use machines. Recognized side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness, may occur and could potentially impair concentration and the ability to operate machinery or drive safely.

Q: Is Novalgin-NU recommended for pain and fever in children based on studies?

A: The product is officially not recommended for use in children under 12 years of age. This position reflects that sufficient safety and efficacy data have not been established by regulatory agencies for this population.

Q: Can Novalgin-NU be used if I am already taking over-the-counter medicines?

A: Regulatory guidance mandates a primary caution: individuals should confirm the absence of paracetamol in any other over-the-counter or prescription medicines being taken simultaneously. This is necessary to avoid the risk of exceeding the safe daily limit for paracetamol.

Q: Can Novalgin-NU cause stomach upset?

A: Yes, the regulatory safety profile includes reports of gastric disorders and stomach pain among the possible adverse reactions listed. This may present to the patient as a form of stomach upset.

Q: Is Novalgin-NU effective for muscle pain or sprains?

A: The official indications cover the relief of general types of mild-to-moderate pain. While research evidence has examined its use in some acute pain scenarios, data regarding specific muscle sprains are still described as emerging, suggesting further study is needed for these specific conditions.

Q: Are there different forms of Novalgin-NU available (e.g., tablet, liquid)?

A: The product is officially designated and marketed as an oral tablet formulation. The regulatory documents only refer to this specific dosage form.

Q: What should I do if a side effect from Novalgin-NU doesn't go away?

A: In the event of any side effects that are either persistent (continue for a long time) or worsening, official guidance suggests consulting a medical professional regarding persistent or worsening side effects.

Q: Can Novalgin-NU be used for pain related to menstruation?

A: Official regulatory labeling in some jurisdictions explicitly includes the use of this combination for the relief of general aches such as menstrual cramps or period pain.

Q: Does Novalgin-NU have any warnings related to anxiety or panic disorders?

A: The regulatory labeling includes a caution for patients who have pre-existing anxiety disorders. This is due to the potential for the stimulant effects of the caffeine component to impact these conditions.

How should Novalgin-NU be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Instructions for Novalgin-NU

Novalgin-NU Tablets must be stored according to specific regulatory requirements to maintain product stability and safety. The medication must be kept at a temperature not exceeding 30 °C (86 °F).

Required Storage and Safety

Condition Requirement
Temperature Do not store above 30 °C
Protection Protect from light and moisture
Child Safety Keep out of reach of children

Disposing of Unused Medication

Official disposal guidance recommends using a drug take-back program or an authorized mail-back envelope. If a take-back program is unavailable, Novalgin-NU may be disposed of in household trash after mixing the tablets with an undesirable substance (such as dirt or coffee grounds) and sealing the mixture in a container. Personal information must be removed from the original packaging before discarding.

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

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