What is the role of Hifenac-P (Aceclofenac and Paracetamol) in managing fever with generalized body aches?

From the Guidelines

Hifenac-P is a suitable option for managing fever with generalized body aches, as it combines Aceclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and Paracetamol, which provides dual action against pain and fever. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2021 1, supports the use of NSAIDs, such as diclofenac, as first-line medications for acute pain management. Although this study specifically mentions diclofenac potassium, Aceclofenac, another NSAID, is expected to have similar efficacy.

Key Considerations

• The typical adult dosage of Hifenac-P is one tablet taken three times daily after meals, but it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed it or take it for more than 5-7 days without medical supervision.
• Hifenac-P works by reducing inflammation through Aceclofenac, while Paracetamol blocks pain signals and helps lower body temperature.
• Common side effects may include stomach upset, heartburn, or dizziness, and this medication should be avoided by those with peptic ulcers, severe kidney or liver disease, or allergies to NSAIDs.
• It's crucial to take Hifenac-P with food to minimize stomach irritation and drink plenty of fluids while recovering from fever.

Important Warnings

• If symptoms persist beyond 3 days or worsen, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider, as fever with body aches could indicate an underlying infection requiring specific treatment.
• The 2017 guideline for the management of chronic pain in patients living with HIV 1 recommends acetaminophen and NSAIDs as first-line agents for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain, but also notes that acetaminophen has fewer side effects than NSAIDs.
• However, the most recent study 1 suggests that Paracetamol has less efficacy than NSAIDs and should be used only in those who are intolerant of NSAIDs, which supports the use of Hifenac-P as a combination therapy.

From the Research

Role of Hifenac-P in Managing Fever with Generalized Body Aches

• Hifenac-P, a combination of Aceclofenac and Paracetamol, is used to manage fever and generalized body aches.
• Studies have shown that combinations of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol can be effective in treating fever and associated symptoms 2, 3, 4, 5.
• A study comparing paracetamol and ibuprofen for the treatment of fever in children found that the combination of both medicines was superior to paracetamol alone in reducing fever and relieving discomfort 3.
• Another study comparing intravenous ibuprofen and paracetamol in the treatment of fever found that both drugs were effective in reducing fever and improving accompanying symptoms, with no significant difference between them 4.
• A prospective observational study comparing the efficacy of paracetamol, ibuprofen, and a combination of the two drugs in relieving pain and fever in the pediatric age group found that the combination of paracetamol and ibuprofen showed enhanced effectiveness in fever and pain relief 5.
• However, it is essential to consider the potential toxicities of these drugs, including gastrointestinal, renal, and hepatic toxicities, and to use them safely and under medical supervision 6.

Efficacy of Hifenac-P

• The efficacy of Hifenac-P in managing fever with generalized body aches can be attributed to the combination of Aceclofenac and Paracetamol.
• Aceclofenac is an NSAID that has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, while Paracetamol is an antipyretic and analgesic.
• The combination of these two drugs can provide effective relief from fever, pain, and inflammation.

Safety Considerations

• While Hifenac-P can be effective in managing fever with generalized body aches, it is crucial to consider the potential side effects and interactions of the drug.
• Patients should be monitored for signs of gastrointestinal, renal, and hepatic toxicity, and the drug should be used under medical supervision.
• Additionally, patients should be advised to follow the recommended dosage and to report any adverse effects to their healthcare provider.