FLEXON TAB 15S is a widely used oral medication that combines two active ingredients: Ibuprofen (400mg) and Paracetamol (325mg). This combination provides enhanced pain relief and fever reduction through two different mechanisms, making it effective for a broad range of mild to moderate pain and fever conditions. The "15S" indicates that the pack contains 15 tablets.

FLEXON TAB is commonly prescribed or recommended for:

• Headache (including tension headaches and migraines)

• Dental pain (toothache, post-extraction pain)

• Musculoskeletal pain (muscle aches, sprains, strains, backache, neck pain, joint pain)

• Menstrual pain (Dysmenorrhea)

• Fever (reduction of elevated body temperature)

• Pain and inflammation associated with colds and flu

• Pain following minor surgery

How FLEXON TAB Works (Mechanism of Action):

The effectiveness of FLEXON TAB comes from the complementary actions of its two components:

1. Ibuprofen (400mg):

   • Class: Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).

   • Mechanism: Ibuprofen works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemical messengers in the body that play a key role in causing pain, inflammation, and fever. By blocking the enzymes (cyclooxygenases, COX-1 and COX-2) responsible for prostaglandin synthesis, Ibuprofen reduces these effects.

   • Benefit: Provides anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects.

2. Paracetamol (325mg) / Acetaminophen:

   • Class: Analgesic and Antipyretic.

   • Mechanism: The exact mechanism of Paracetamol is not fully understood, but it is believed to primarily act in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It may inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the brain and interact with certain neurotransmitter pathways involved in pain and temperature regulation.

   • Benefit: Primarily provides analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects, with very weak anti-inflammatory action, making it different from NSAIDs.

• Synergistic Effect: When combined, Ibuprofen and Paracetamol provide more comprehensive pain relief than either drug alone, as they act through different pathways to target pain and fever. The higher dose of Ibuprofen (400mg) provides a stronger anti-inflammatory component compared to lower over-the-counter doses.

Key Benefits of FLEXON TAB:

• Dual-Action Relief: Combines two distinct pain-relieving mechanisms for enhanced efficacy.

• Comprehensive Pain Management: Effective for various types of mild to moderate pain, including inflammatory pain.

• Effective Fever Reduction: Both components contribute to lowering elevated body temperature.

• Faster and Stronger Relief: The combination often provides quicker onset and more potent relief than single-ingredient formulations.

• Widely Used: A common and generally well-tolerated combination for short-term pain and fever.

Important Usage Instructions & Critical Warnings for FLEXON TAB:

FLEXON TAB is a prescription or over-the-counter medication (depending on local regulations and specific product branding). Always take it strictly as directed by your doctor or as per the instructions on the packaging.

• Dosage & Administration:

  • Typically, one tablet is taken as needed.

  • Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment. Overdosing, especially with Paracetamol, can lead to severe liver damage.

  • Take the tablet with food or milk to minimize stomach upset, particularly due to Ibuprofen.

  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.

  • Maintain the recommended interval between doses (usually 6-8 hours, but check product-specific instructions).

• Duration of Use: This medication is generally intended for short-term use for acute pain and fever. Prolonged use should only be done under medical supervision.

• CRITICAL WARNINGS & PRECAUTIONS:

  • Gastrointestinal Bleeding/Ulcers (NSAID Risk): Ibuprofen can cause serious gastrointestinal side effects, including stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, ulcers, and bleeding in the stomach or intestines. This risk is higher with prolonged use, higher doses, in older adults, or in those with a history of GI problems.

    • Seek immediate medical attention if you experience black, tarry stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain.

  • Liver Damage (Paracetamol Risk): Overdosing with Paracetamol is extremely dangerous and can cause severe, irreversible liver damage (hepatic failure) or death. The maximum daily dose of Paracetamol should not be exceeded from all sources.

    • Do not take other medications containing Paracetamol while taking FLEXON TAB. Check the labels of all other medications carefully.

    • Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication, as alcohol increases the risk of liver damage with Paracetamol.

  • Kidney Problems (NSAID Risk): Ibuprofen can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease, dehydration, heart failure, or in older adults.

    • Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems.

  • Cardiovascular Risk (NSAID Risk): NSAIDs, including Ibuprofen, may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including heart attack and stroke, especially with high doses and long-term use. This risk may be higher in patients with pre-existing heart disease.

    • Contraindicated for pain relief immediately before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).

  • Allergies: DO NOT take FLEXON TAB if you have a known allergy to Ibuprofen, Paracetamol, Aspirin, other NSAIDs, or any other ingredients in the tablet. Allergic reactions can range from skin rashes to severe reactions like difficulty breathing, swelling of face/throat, or anaphylaxis.

    • Inform your doctor about any history of asthma, rhinitis, urticaria (hives), or allergic reactions to pain relievers.

  • Asthma: If you have asthma, particularly aspirin-sensitive asthma, NSAIDs can trigger bronchospasm. Use with caution.

  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding:

    • Pregnancy: Ibuprofen is contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus and complications during delivery. Use in early pregnancy should only be under strict medical advice.

    • Breastfeeding: Both components pass into breast milk in small amounts. Consult your doctor before using while breastfeeding.

  • Bleeding Disorders/Anticoagulants: Ibuprofen can interfere with blood clotting. Use with extreme caution if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners (anticoagulants like Warfarin) or other antiplatelet drugs (like Aspirin, Clopidogrel), as this significantly increases the risk of bleeding.

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): NSAIDs can cause fluid retention and may worsen high blood pressure. Use with caution.

  • Heart Failure: Use with caution, as NSAIDs can cause fluid retention and worsen heart failure symptoms.

  • Liver Disease: Use with extreme caution and reduced dosage in patients with liver impairment due to the Paracetamol component.

  • Other Medications: Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all other medications you are taking, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter drugs, to avoid potential dangerous interactions.

• Common Side Effects:

  • Nausea, vomiting, indigestion

  • Abdominal pain, heartburn

  • Diarrhea or constipation

  • Headache, dizziness

  • Rash

• If any side effects persist, worsen, or cause significant discomfort, or if you experience any severe or unusual symptoms (especially signs of bleeding, liver problems, or allergic reactions), stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention.

• Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture.