Norgesic

Norgesic is a combination medication containing Orphenadrine Citrate and Paracetamol, classified as a Centrally Acting Muscle Relaxant. It is manufactured by iNova Pharmaceuticals (Thailand) and is registered with the Thai FDA (Registration No. 2C 13/53).

This medication was developed to address pain caused by muscle spasms by combining a muscle relaxant and a pain reliever in one tablet, eliminating the need to take multiple medications simultaneously and improving convenience for patients.

Norgesic is classified as a dangerous drug and must be used only under the guidance of a physician or pharmacist.

Norgesic works through a dual-action mechanism via its two active ingredients:

Orphenadrine Citrate — Muscle Relaxant

Orphenadrine is an anticholinergic agent that acts on the central nervous system (not directly on the muscles) by inhibiting nerve signal transmission that causes muscle spasms, helping tense and stiff muscles to relax.

Paracetamol — Pain Reliever

Paracetamol inhibits Prostaglandin production in the central nervous system — substances responsible for pain sensation — thereby reducing pain associated with muscle spasms.

The combined action of both ingredients makes Norgesic more effective at relieving pain from muscle spasms than either agent alone. The drug is rapidly absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, acts quickly, and provides relief lasting approximately 4–6 hours. It is metabolised in the liver and excreted via urine.

Norgesic is primarily indicated for relieving pain caused by muscle spasms, including:

• Back pain and neck pain — Common in people who sit for prolonged periods or lift heavy objects
• Muscle inflammation — From overuse or poor posture
• Sprains and strains — From sports injuries or awkward movements
• Tension headaches — Caused by muscle tightness in the neck and shoulder area

For adults and children aged 12 years and above

• Take 2 tablets, 3 times daily (morning, afternoon, evening)
• For mild pain, 1 tablet per dose may be sufficient as directed by a physician
• Can be taken with or without food, but taking after meals is recommended to reduce stomach irritation
• Swallow with a full glass of water
• Do not use for more than 7–10 consecutive days without medical advice

For children under 12 years

• Not recommended due to insufficient safety data. Consult a physician.

For elderly patients / patients with liver or kidney conditions

• Consult a physician for dose adjustment. Elderly patients are more sensitive to side effects, and patients with liver or kidney conditions may experience drug accumulation.

If you miss a dose

• Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.

Common side effects

• Drowsiness, dizziness
• Dry mouth, dry throat
• Blurred vision
• Nausea, stomach discomfort

Symptoms requiring immediate medical attention

• Allergic reactions such as rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat
• Abnormally rapid heartbeat
• Inability to urinate
• Confusion, hallucinations

Due to potential drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery after taking this medication.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Orphenadrine, Paracetamol, or any other ingredient in the medication
• Glaucoma
• Enlarged prostate (prostatic hypertrophy)
• Gastrointestinal obstruction
• Severe liver disease
• Myasthenia Gravis

Precautions

• Do not consume alcohol while taking Norgesic — it enhances CNS depression and increases the risk of liver toxicity
• Use caution when taking with other CNS depressants such as antihistamines, sleeping pills, and antidepressants
• Use caution with other anticholinergic medications (e.g., Atropine) as side effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation may be enhanced
• Pregnancy — Not recommended, especially during the 1st and 3rd trimesters. Consult a physician.
• Breastfeeding — Not recommended as the drug passes into breast milk
• If symptoms do not improve within 3–5 days, discontinue use and consult a physician

Overdose

Overdose is extremely dangerous and may cause confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, seizures, and severe liver damage from Paracetamol, which can be fatal. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Norgesic can be ordered online from Intimo Life with these simple steps:

1. Register for an account on the Intimo Life website
2. Consult with our online pharmacist
3. Receive approval
4. Place your order directly through the website

Delivered nationwide across Thailand — convenient, fast, and no need to visit a clinic or hospital.

Can I drive after taking Norgesic?

You should not drive or operate machinery after taking Norgesic, as the medication can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision, which may increase the risk of accidents.

Can I take Norgesic with alcohol?

Absolutely not. Alcohol enhances the CNS depressant effects, causing severe drowsiness, and increases the risk of liver toxicity from Paracetamol.

How long can I take Norgesic continuously?

Do not use for more than 7–10 consecutive days without consulting a physician. If symptoms do not improve within 3–5 days, see your doctor.

Can Norgesic treat migraines?

Norgesic is not suitable for treating migraines directly. However, it is effective for tension headaches caused by muscle tightness in the neck and shoulder area.

Why do I need to take 2 tablets at a time?

The standard dose of 2 tablets provides sufficient amounts of Orphenadrine and Paracetamol for effective muscle relaxation and pain relief in adults.

Can Norgesic be used as a sleeping pill?

No. Although the medication may cause drowsiness, using it as a sleep aid is a misuse of the drug and may lead to unnecessary side effects and health risks.

How is Norgesic different from other muscle relaxants?

Norgesic is a combination formula containing both a muscle relaxant (Orphenadrine) and a pain reliever (Paracetamol) in one tablet, making it more convenient than taking separate medications and effective for acute pain from muscle spasms.

Can I take Norgesic on an empty stomach?

Yes, but taking it after meals is recommended to reduce the chance of stomach irritation.

Can pregnant women take Norgesic?

Not recommended, especially during the 1st and 3rd trimesters. Always consult a physician before use.

What special precautions should elderly patients take?

Elderly patients are more sensitive to side effects, particularly drowsiness, confusion, and dry mouth, which may increase the risk of falls. Consult a physician for dose adjustment.

1. Orphenadrine — NHS
2. Orphenadrine Citrate — MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
3. Orphenadrine — DrugBank
4. Paracetamol (Acetaminophen) — WHO Essential Medicines
5. Orphenadrine/Paracetamol Combination — PubMed
6. Thai FDA Health Product Database