From the Guidelines
Flavocoxid is a type of flavonoid, which is a class of plant extracts used to relieve symptoms in patients with complicated hemorrhoids, as suggested by the WSES-AAST guidelines 1. The use of flavonoids, including flavocoxid, has been extensively studied in the context of hemorrhoids, with major meta-analyses demonstrating a statistically significant beneficial effect on symptoms such as pruritus, bleeding, and overall symptom improvement 1. Key points to consider when using flavocoxid include:
- Typical dosage and administration: not specified in the provided evidence, but flavonoids are generally considered safe and well-tolerated.
- Mechanism of action: flavonoids, including flavocoxid, are thought to have anti-inflammatory and phlebotonic properties, which may help alleviate symptoms associated with hemorrhoids.
- Potential interactions and side effects: not explicitly stated in the provided evidence, but caution should be exercised when using any supplement, especially in patients with underlying medical conditions or taking other medications.
- Efficacy: the evidence suggests that flavonoids, including flavocoxid, may be beneficial in relieving symptoms associated with complicated hemorrhoids, but the quality of the evidence is moderate, and more research is needed to fully understand their effects 1.
From the Research
Definition and Composition of Flavocoxid
- Flavocoxid is a mixed extract containing baicalin and catechin, derived from Scutellaria baicalensis (Chinese skullcap) and Acacia catechu (black catechu) 2, 3.
- It acts as a dual balanced inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and COX-2 peroxidase enzyme activities, with significant inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) enzyme activity in vitro 2, 4.
Mechanism of Action and Therapeutic Effects
- Flavocoxid exerts anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer activities due to its ability to inhibit various enzymes and pathways, including COX, 5-LOX, and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) 2, 5, 3.
- It downregulates gene or protein expression of several inflammatory markers and exhibits strong antioxidant activity in several experimental models 2, 3.
- Flavocoxid has been shown to be effective in managing the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee, with a better safety profile than naproxen 2.
Safety and Interactions
- Flavocoxid does not affect coagulation or interact with anticoagulation therapies, making it a potential therapeutic approach for patients with chronic inflammatory conditions and increased cardiovascular risk 4.
- It does not inhibit the anticoagulant effect of warfarin and may have utility in cardiovascular patients with osteoarthritis 4.
- Flavocoxid has been well-tolerated in clinical trials, with no significant adverse effects reported 3.