Introduction

• Flavocoxid is a medical food (not a conventional drug) that contains a blend of flavonoids derived from plant sources.
• It is primarily made from baicalin (from Scutellaria baicalensis) and catechin (from Acacia catechu).
• Classified as a proinflammatory enzyme modulator, it has both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• It was marketed as a prescription-only medical food for the dietary management of osteoarthritis (OA).

Uses

• Management of osteoarthritis symptoms (pain, stiffness, inflammation).
• Alternative for patients who cannot tolerate traditional NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
• Claimed benefits included reducing inflammation by modulating COX-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX pathways.

Side Effects

Although considered safer than NSAIDs, flavocoxid is not free from risks. Reported adverse effects include:

• Common, mild effects:
  • Stomach upset
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
• Serious side effects (rare, but documented):
  • Liver injury (hepatotoxicity) – cases of elevated liver enzymes, hepatitis, and even serious liver damage have been reported.
  • Hypersensitivity reactions – rash, pruritus, anaphylaxis in rare cases.
  • Edema (fluid retention).

⚠️ Because of concerns about serious liver toxicity, flavocoxid was voluntarily withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2017.

Popular Brand Names

• Limbrel® (most recognized brand, in the U.S., marketed by Primus Pharmaceuticals).

✅ Summary: Flavocoxid (Limbrel®) was a medical food for osteoarthritis, promoted as a safer alternative to NSAIDs. However, due to reports of serious liver injury and hypersensitivity reactions, it was withdrawn from the market.