Nucoxia -P

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Nucoxia -P

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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 Nucoxia -P

Property Description
Active ingredients Etoricoxib and Paracetamol (Acetaminophen)
Form Oral formulation tablet
Pharmacological class COX-2 Selective Inhibitor and Analgesic/Antipyretic
Common use Symptomatic relief of acute pain and inflammation
Origin Synthetic

The Dual-Action Combination: Defining Nucoxia-P

Nucoxia-P is a prescription-only medication classified as a Fixed-Dose Combination (FDC) product, delivered as an oral formulation tablet for systemic action. This synthetic medicine integrates two distinct active ingredients: Etoricoxib and Paracetamol (Acetaminophen). The FDC identity of Nucoxia-P is clinically recognized for providing a comprehensive approach to pain management, which distinguishes it from single-component therapies. This means the drug is designed to tackle pain using two simultaneous, distinct pathways.


Pharmacological Classification and General Purpose

This drug's dual composition places it within two major pharmacological classes: Etoricoxib is a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and specifically a Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) Selective Inhibitor, while Paracetamol is categorized as an Analgesic and Antipyretic. The unique selling proposition of the combination is its capacity for simultaneous pain and inflammation control. Etoricoxib's selective action targets the enzyme (COX-2) that drives inflammation, distinguishing its pharmacological profile from non-selective alternatives. The general purpose of Nucoxia-P is to provide robust symptomatic relief often utilized in scenarios involving acute pain where both an anti-inflammatory component and pain reduction are required.


The Distinction of a Dual-Action Drug

The defining characteristic of Nucoxia-P is its dual-action design, contrasting it with single-entity NSAIDs or simple analgesics. This pairing combines an agent focused on inflammation (Etoricoxib) with a compound primarily targeting pain and fever (Paracetamol), resulting in a synergistic effect. This structural choice aims to provide robust symptomatic relief where both inflammation reduction and pain relief are required, which is why such FDC formulations are utilized in clinical practice.

Regulatory References

  1. Etoricoxib (Arcoxia) - European Medicines Agency

What side effects are possible with Nucoxia -P?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of this fixed-dose combination, containing Etoricoxib and Paracetamol, is based on adverse reactions and safety statements documented in official government regulatory labeling.

Adverse Reaction Classification

Adverse effects are officially classified by frequency and grouped into System-Organ Classes (SOC), including the Gastrointestinal, Cardiovascular, Nervous System, and Hepatobiliary systems. Documented frequencies for Etoricoxib-related effects range from Very Common (such as abdominal pain) to Rare (such as hepatic failure or anaphylactic shock).

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Regulatory documents explicitly highlight the risk of several Serious Adverse Reactions. These include Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events (such as myocardial infarction and stroke), Serious Gastrointestinal Complications (such as perforations, ulcers, or bleeding), and severe Skin and Hepatic Reactions (including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and acute liver failure).

Safety Constraints and Limitations

The medication is contraindicated in patients with established cardiovascular conditions, including congestive heart failure (NYHA II–IV), ischemic heart disease, and established cerebrovascular or peripheral arterial disease. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment (e.g., creatinine clearance <30 ml/min) and during pregnancy and lactation.

Exposure-Related Safety Notes

The risk of cardiovascular thrombotic events is officially noted to increase with the duration of use and dose. Furthermore, the label requires blood pressure monitoring during treatment, and the Etoricoxib component may mask signs of fever or inflammation.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory profile for a Nucoxia-P overdose is primarily defined by the severe toxicological risk posed by the Paracetamol component, which can lead to life-threatening liver failure, involving the hepatic, cardiovascular, and renal systems. Initial documented overdose signs are often non-specific and may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, and upper abdominal pain. Crucially, severe symptoms like jaundice, confusion, or unusual bleeding may not appear until several days after the exposure.

Due to the delayed onset of severe toxicity, regulatory guidance mandates that you seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services immediately upon any suspected overdose, even if the affected person is currently asymptomatic. Immediate contact with emergency services is required if the person collapses, has a seizure, or has trouble breathing.

The combination's regulatory profile notes that a specific antidote, N-acetylcysteine, is available for the Paracetamol component, and prompt hospital monitoring and administration are necessary as its efficacy is time-dependent. Management is generally symptomatic and supportive, and may include procedures such as administering activated charcoal. Individuals with pre-existing liver disease, chronic alcohol consumption, impaired renal function, or uncompensated heart failure face a heightened risk of severe complications.

Therapeutic Uses of Nucoxia -P

What Nucoxia-P Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The combination of Etoricoxib and Paracetamol (Nucoxia-P) is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic commonly used to help with symptomatic relief across domains marked by acute discomfort and inflammation. It is relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden and localized discomfort, addressing the signs and symptoms of inflammatory conditions.


This dual-action medication is applied across therapeutic domains where additional symptomatic support is needed for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, and for managing acute pain associated with dental procedures, sprains, and menstrual cramps. It is commonly used to help with symptoms that may intensify temporarily or create noticeable physiological strain. It addresses symptom clusters that include pain, stiffness, swelling, and fever. The medication plays a role in managing symptom intensity across these categories.

“The medication plays a role in managing symptom intensity across categories that may interfere with daily functioning.”

This application contributes to easing the overall symptom load in situations where symptoms may interfere with daily functioning. It offers symptomatic relief that supports the patient during difficult episodes by easing distress and may assist with maintaining day-to-day comfort.

Quick Facts: Therapeutic Domain

Quick Fact: This medication is applied across domains where short-term symptom management is appropriate for conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations, notably acute pain, inflammation, and fever.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Nucoxia -P?

This section defines population eligibility rules for Nucoxia -P (Etoricoxib and Paracetamol) as documented in official government regulatory information.


Populations Prohibited from Use (Contraindicated)

Nucoxia -P is contraindicated and must not be used in the following populations:

  • Age: Individuals who are children or adolescents under 16 years of age.
  • Hypersensitivity: Patients with known allergy to the active ingredients or those who have had allergic reactions after taking Aspirin or other NSAIDs.
  • Pregnancy/Lactation: Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding.

Condition-Based Eligibility Restrictions

Use is prohibited (contraindicated) for patients with specific severe, pre-existing conditions, including:

  • Cardiovascular Disease: Established Congestive Heart Failure (NYHA II-IV), established ischaemic heart disease, or uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure persistently elevated above 140/90 mmHg).
  • Gastrointestinal Disease: Active peptic ulceration, active GI bleeding, or Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
  • Organ Impairment: Severe hepatic dysfunction (Child-Pugh score ge 10) and severe renal impairment (Creatinine clearance < 30 ml/min).

Patients with moderate hepatic impairment may be considered, but use is restricted to a reduced dose under medical supervision. Only adults and adolescents 16 years and older without these contraindications are eligible for use.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

The interaction profile of Nucoxia-P is officially documented to encompass both pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) effects, stemming from its dual components, Etoricoxib and Paracetamol.


Interaction Scope and Restrictions

Co-administration with other Non-selective NSAIDs or analgesic doses of Aspirin is officially restricted due to a documented heightened risk of gastrointestinal complications (a pharmacodynamic risk).

Several substances are documented to alter drug exposure. Rifampicin is noted to cause a substantial 65% decrease in Etoricoxib plasma concentration (AUC). Conversely, Etoricoxib increases the exposure of Ethinyl Estradiol in oral contraceptives by 50% to 60%, a finding linked to documented inhibition of sulfotransferase activity. The Paracetamol component carries a documented risk of increased toxicity with liver enzyme inducers, including Alcohol and specific Anticonvulsant Agents.


Pharmacodynamic Effects and Constraints

Interactions with Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin) are officially associated with an approximate 13% increase in International Normalized Ratio (INR). Co-administration with ACE Inhibitors, AIIAs, or Diuretics may officially diminish the antihypertensive effect of those medicines. This combination requires documented caution in the elderly or in patients with compromised renal function due to the potential for renal function deterioration. A specific timing rule exists: Colestyramine should not be administered within one hour of Paracetamol to avoid a documented reduction in absorption.

Mechanism of Action

How Nucoxia-P Works: The Dual-Action Mechanism

The combined action of Etoricoxib and Paracetamol modulates physiological responses through distinct biological systems, coordinating the suppression of signals at peripheral sites and the centralized processing of nociception and temperature control.


Selective Inhibition of Peripheral Inflammatory Messengers

Etoricoxib acts as a selective inhibitor of the Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme. By blocking COX-2, the molecule prevents the conversion of arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory Prostaglandins at the site of increased enzymatic activity. The resulting physiological consequence is a direct limitation of the inflammatory response and decreased signaling from peripheral nociceptors.


Central Modulation of Nociception and Thermoregulation

The action of Paracetamol primarily occurs within the Central Nervous System (CNS). This agent modulates central pain pathways, involving indirect central COX inhibition and action on TRPV1 receptors, contributing to an increase in the central pain threshold. Concurrently, it suppresses the synthesis of prostaglandins within the hypothalamus, which is critical for modulating the body's elevated temperature set-point.


Coordinated Physiological Synergy

The two distinct mechanisms operate in parallel to exert complementary modulatory effects. Etoricoxib limits the production of pro-inflammatory mediators in the periphery, while Paracetamol increases the central pain threshold and modulates hypothalamic thermoregulation. This dual-site modulation results in coordinated peripheral and central adjustments to nociceptive and thermoregulatory responses.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines

Nucoxia-P is administered via the oral route as a tablet and is typically taken once daily. The tablet must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, broken, or chewed. Administration is permitted with or without food; however, taking the tablet without food may lead to a faster onset of its symptomatic effect.

The fundamental principle for use is to ensure that the lowest effective daily dose is used for the shortest duration possible. For conditions like chronic pain management, the dose of the Etoricoxib component must generally not exceed 60 mg once daily. For all acute symptomatic uses, treatment is strictly restricted to the acute period, with specific durations limited to a maximum of three days in some contexts. The need for continued symptomatic relief must be periodically re-evaluated to align with the short-term nature of its official use.

Regarding specific populations, the medicine is not authorized for use in children and adolescents under 16 years of age, though no dose adjustment is required for older adults. Special considerations apply for patients with pre-existing conditions: The use is contraindicated in individuals with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 ml/min), and the Etoricoxib component dose must not exceed 30 mg daily in cases of moderate hepatic impairment. If a scheduled dose is missed, the patient should continue with the next scheduled dose and must not take a double dose to compensate.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Design and Core Findings

Nucoxia-P is a fixed-dose combination containing the COX-2 selective inhibitor etoricoxib and the non-opioid analgesic paracetamol (acetaminophen). Studies have explored the biological pathways that the drug was designed to target, including both inflammatory and central pain signaling.

Research regarding the components typically involves randomized, placebo-controlled trials. For the combination itself, clinical studies often evaluate its effectiveness in acute pain models, such as post-operative dental surgery, or chronic conditions like osteoarthritis.


Efficacy Endpoints

Key studies focused on evaluating the reduction of inflammation markers and patient-reported pain scores, primarily using scales like the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Trials have examined the following:

  • Acute Pain Relief: Research evaluated pain scores at an early time point following administration. In some settings (e.g., dental pain), etoricoxib alone or in combination with other agents demonstrated significant pain reduction compared to placebo.
  • Duration of Effect: Studies evaluated whether a reduction in symptoms was observed over a 4-week treatment course; such a reduction was noted in some trials. Evidence remains limited regarding symptom changes beyond this initial period.
  • Combination vs. Monotherapy: Research examined the effects of combination therapy, including studies that used etoricoxib monotherapy or paracetamol monotherapy for comparison, on overall patient outcomes and the need for rescue medication.

Safety and Tolerability Profile

Studies assessed the reporting of adverse events during long-term use in adults. Since the combination involves two distinct agents, the safety profile incorporates the potential risks of both:

  • Administration Context: Research examined how different dosing contexts (such as administration with food) affected the reporting of common adverse events like stomach upset.
  • Target Population: Studies focused on the use of etoricoxib in individuals with severe inflammatory conditions. Data on use in individuals with mild to moderate conditions may be limited, or results may be extrapolated from trials of the individual components.

Key Studies & References

  1. Clinical Guideline: Management of Chronic Pain in Adults (Representative National Guideline)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Nucoxia -P (FAQ)


Q: Is Nucoxia -P known to be habit-forming or addictive?

Official product information for the active ingredients in Nucoxia -P (Etoricoxib and Paracetamol) does not associate the medication with habit-forming tendencies or addictive potential.

Q: How quickly should I expect Nucoxia -P to start working?

Regulatory documents note that symptomatic relief may begin to be observed within an average of one to two hours after administration. Official guidelines also indicate that the onset of effect may be faster when the tablet is taken without food.

Q: Can Nucoxia -P be used for headaches or migraines?

Regulatory documents indicate that the approved uses for Nucoxia -P include the treatment of general headaches and muscle pain. It is also indicated for symptomatic relief from conditions like osteoarthritis and acute dental pain.

Q: What are the most commonly reported side effects of Nucoxia -P?

Common side effects, as described in official reports, typically include gastrointestinal issues such as stomach pain, indigestion, and nausea. Other common effects noted are headache, swelling (edema), and dizziness.

Q: Does Nucoxia -P cause any known issues with sleep?

Official regulatory summaries note that side effects such as insomnia (difficulty sleeping) and drowsiness have been reported by some individuals taking the medicine.

Q: Is it safe to take Nucoxia -P if I have a history of stomach issues?

Official documents strictly contraindicate the medicine if there is active peptic ulceration or gastrointestinal bleeding. For individuals with a history of such issues, the use is officially noted to require careful medical oversight due to the risk of serious gastrointestinal complications.

Q: What types of pain is Nucoxia -P specifically designed to treat?

Nucoxia -P is indicated for the symptomatic relief of pain and inflammation associated with a range of conditions. These include acute pain scenarios like dental pain, and chronic inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Q: How long does the pain relief from Nucoxia -P usually last?

Official pharmacokinetics summaries indicate that the pain-relieving effects from a single dose last for an average duration of 20 to 24 hours.

Q: Are there any known issues with driving or operating machinery while taking Nucoxia -P?

Official documents indicate that if an individual experiences side effects like dizziness or drowsiness, caution is warranted regarding activities like driving or operating heavy machinery, as judgment and reaction time may be impaired.

Q: Can I take Nucoxia -P if I am already taking herbal supplements?

General regulatory guidelines advise informing a healthcare provider about all medicines, vitamins, and herbal products currently being taken. This disclosure is important for healthcare providers to evaluate the risk of potential drug interactions or adverse effects.

Q: Can Nucoxia -P interact with common vitamins like Vitamin D?

While specific interactions with common vitamins are often not listed in drug summaries, general regulatory caution is advised. Individuals should discuss any plan to combine prescription drugs with vitamins or dietary supplements with a healthcare provider.

Q: Is Nucoxia -P suitable for people with diabetes?

Official precautions advise that Nucoxia -P should be used with caution in patients who have diabetes or high cholesterol levels. This is noted because these conditions may increase the cardiovascular risk associated with the Etoricoxib component of the medication.

Q: Is it common to feel drowsy after taking Nucoxia -P?

Drowsiness is listed as a common, reported side effect in official documents. If affected, official information indicates that caution regarding activities requiring high levels of alertness is appropriate.

Q: Are there any known interactions between Nucoxia -P and caffeine?

A specific interaction with caffeine is not typically listed in the drug's regulatory summaries. However, given the presence of Paracetamol, individuals should consult their doctor before combining the medication with stimulants to understand any potential risks.

Q: Can Nucoxia -P be taken with antacids or heartburn medication?

Specific interactions with common antacids are not usually listed. However, one component (Paracetamol) has a documented timing rule with Colestyramine (a substance that can treat high cholesterol). This substance should not be administered within one hour of Paracetamol to avoid affecting absorption.

Q: Can Nucoxia -P cause dizziness or lightheadedness?

Dizziness is a commonly reported side effect in the regulatory documentation for Nucoxia -P. Individuals who experience dizziness should use caution during activities that require stable coordination.

Q: What are the general expectations about discontinuing Nucoxia -P?

Regulatory guidelines indicate that treatment should be discontinued promptly once the desired symptomatic relief is achieved, or if adverse effects occur. Because the official use emphasizes short duration, the need for continued relief must be periodically re-evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Q: Are there any known warnings about taking Nucoxia -P before surgery?

Official warnings advise that patients inform their healthcare provider or surgeon about taking this medicine before any surgical procedure. This is due to general regulatory warnings regarding the potential for increased bleeding risk and the need to monitor cardiovascular risk.

Q: Can Nucoxia -P affect the results of lab tests?

Official product information states that this medicine may cause changes in certain blood tests. Regular blood tests may be required to monitor liver function, especially if treatment is extended.

Q: Does Nucoxia -P interact with common cold or flu medications?

Co-administration with cold and flu medications is generally discouraged. Many over-the-counter remedies contain Paracetamol or other NSAIDs, which could lead to an unintended overdose of those active components and increase the risk of toxicity, such as liver damage.

Q: Is it necessary to inform my dentist about taking Nucoxia -P?

Based on general warnings and the medicine’s use in dental settings, patients are generally encouraged to inform their dentist about their current medication use.

Q: Can Nucoxia -P be taken if I am lactose intolerant?

Official documentation states that the tablets often contain lactose as an excipient (non-active ingredient). For individuals with an intolerance to some sugars, official guidance recommends seeking consultation before starting this medicine.

Q: What are the descriptions of Nucoxia -P's effect on mental clarity?

Side effects such as dizziness, headache, and drowsiness are reported in official summaries. These effects, if experienced, may potentially impair mental clarity and reaction time.

Q: Can Nucoxia -P interact with medications used to treat anxiety?

The Paracetamol component has documented interactions with certain Anticonvulsant Agents. Since many anti-anxiety medications also affect the Central Nervous System, individuals should inform their healthcare provider about all current medications for a proper risk assessment.

Q: Is Nucoxia -P intended for use in managing chronic pain?

Regulatory documents permit its use for symptomatic relief in chronic conditions like osteoarthritis. However, the guidelines strictly limit the dosage and emphasize using the medicine for the shortest duration possible, indicating that long-term use requires careful and periodic reassessment.

How should Nucoxia -P be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Classification Requirement (as per Regulatory Labeling)
Storage Temperature Store below 30 C to maintain product stability.
Environmental Protection Must be protected from light and moisture and kept in the original container/blister.
Child Safety Mandatory instruction to keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Product Stability The official shelf life is 24 MONTHS when stored under the specified conditions.
Disposal Method Unused or expired product must be disposed of according to local requirements and release to the environment must be avoided.

These official statements define how the medicine must be protected: Do not store above 30 C and shield the tablets from moisture and light by keeping them sealed in the blister. Regulators universally mandate that the product be kept away from children. Final disposal must adhere to local pharmaceutical waste protocols, which require avoiding disposal in household trash or wastewater to protect the environment.

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

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