Q Flex is a medical drug made up of acetaminophen and phenyltoloxamine. Both drugs are widely used around the world for various health purposes. Acetaminophen is a very popular drug sold under the brand name Tylenol and used to relive mild to moderate pain and reduce fevers. It is also marketed to treat headaches. Phenyltoloxamine is an antihistamine, it works to reduce histamine production in the body, helping to treat itching, runny noses, sneezing and water eyes.

Uses and Brand Name

Together these medications are sold to treat seasonal allergies and combat the effects of the common cold and the flu, doctors may also prescribe the medication for other health reasons. The combination of acetaminophen and phenyltoloxamine is sold under a variety of brand names including Q Flex. Other brand names of this medical drug include: Acuflex, Alpain, Lagesic, Phenagesic and Vistra. They are sold over the counter and by prescription only. A dose of Q Flex should not exceed 2 grams (equal to 2000 milligrams) at a time and 4 grams (equal to 4000 milligrams) is the maximum amount that can be taken in one 24 hour period. Remember to store Q Flex in a cool dry place at room temperature so the drug does not lose effectiveness.

Very Important Health Information

Those currently taking Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors should never take Q Flex. MAO inhibiters refer to a class of medical drugs designed to treat depression and Parkinson’s disease. Popular brand names include phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate). Q Flex should also not be taken if you have taken an MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days. If the drug is still in the system when taking Q Flex, life-threatening side effects, including death could occur, especially in young children.

For alcoholics, those who take 3 or more alcoholic beverages a day or those suffering from alcoholic liver disease, Q Flex may not be suitable for your health. Make sure to share such medical information with your physician and stop drinking alcoholic beverages while on this medication. Because Q Flex causes drowsiness or dizziness, serious side effects can occur if taking other medications at the same time which produce similar side effect such as muscle relaxers, sleeping pills and allergy medications. Give your doctor a full update of all other medications being taken including prescription, over the counter and herbal.

Others Who Can’t Take Q Flex

For health purposes, some individuals cannot take Q Flex, especially those who are allergic to either acetaminophen or phenyltoloxamine. Individuals should also share with their doctors if they are allergic to any medications to be sure adverse effects won’t occur. Those with certain preexisting conditions may be unable to take Q Flex or may require dosage adjustments or require medical tests beforehand to determine if the drug is appropriate. These health conditions include diabetes, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, liver disease, glaucoma, heart disease and an enlarged prostate among others.

Medical Warnings for Those Pregnant or Nursing

For pregnant and nursing women, Q Flex can be a problem. Since the drug can be harmful for an unborn fetus or a nursing baby who ingests the drug through their mother’s milk it is important to speak to your doctor before taking. That way it can be determined if Q Flex should be taken or if another medication may be more appropriate. If taken, the drug should only be used for short-term use, overdosing could lead to birth defects in children and could contribute to liver failure. Because both medications are also available in other over the counter medications, it is important to check labels of over-the-counter medicines to ensure your health and prevent overdoses.

Other Medical Warnings and Side Effects

Just like any other medication, overdose of Q Flex could lead to life threatening health problems. Convulsions, fast pounding or uneven heartbeat, unexplainable weakness, nausea, vomiting, easy loss of appetite, stomach pain and coma could occur. If these serious side effects occur, it is important that you seek medical attention immediately. Less serious side effects such as dry mouth, feeling overexcited and blurred vision may also occur. You should talk to your doctor if you experience any other serious or worrying side effects not listed here.

Q Flex has been known to impair thinking and reasoning skills, while reducing reaction time and alertness. Drowsiness and dizziness might also occur. For those in certain professions where remaining alert and aware is vital it can be dangerous to take this medication. For example, those operating heavy machinery should be sure to use caution when taking Q Flex. Since Q Flex can also impair driving, it should also not be taken when operating a vehicle, if not fully alert. As always, your doctor is the best source to understand what medical and health conditions can occur from Q Flex or any other medication.