Propyphenazone

Propyphenazone is used to treat fever and pain. It belongs to the pyrazolone group and is a derivative of isopropyl. The active substance is usually present as a white to slightly yellow, crystalline powder and is only slightly soluble in water. Propyphenazone was often marketed as a combination preparation with paracetamol and caffeine.

Propyphenazone works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) and consequently also prostaglandin synthesis. By blocking COX-2, there is no inflammatory reaction and no pain. Fever is reduced because the temperature regulation center in the brain is influenced. Propyphenazone also has a mild antispasmodic effect, which has a beneficial effect on headaches.

Always take propyphenazone exactly as described in the package leaflet or as advised by your doctor.

The usual recommended dose for adolescents and adults aged 15 years and over is 500-1000 mg per day.

The maximum dose is 4000 mg per day.

The recommended dose for children and adolescents aged 7-14 years is 250 mg per day.

The maximum dose is 1000 mg per day.

The following side effects may occur:

Occasional:

• Nausea
• Feeling of fullness
• Stomach discomfort
• vomiting

Frequency unknown:

• Skin changes and severe skin reactions
• Hypersensitivity reactions
• severe allergic reactions
• Inflammation of kidney tissue
• Decreased urine production
• Failure to urinate

Interactions may occur if the following medicines are taken at the same time:

• No known interactions

Propyphenazone must NOT be taken in the following cases:

• in case of allergy to propyphenazone
• allergy to other pyrazolones
• in case of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
• in case of a build-up disorder of the red blood pigment in the liver (acute intermittent porphyria)

Propyphenazone is approved for use from the age of 7 .

Propyphenazone should NOT be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding .

Propyphenazone was developed by the pharmaceutical company Hoffman-La Roche in the 1920s to 1930s. The active ingredient received marketing authorization in 1933. In the meantime, the active substance has been withdrawn from the market in some countries (e.g. Switzerland) because it sometimes causes considerable side effects. It is still available in some countries (e.g. Germany).