What Is Bioflu?
Bioflu is a brand name for a combination medication designed to address the wide range of symptoms caused by respiratory infections like the common cold and flu. Because different pharmaceutical companies produce products under this brand name in different countries, the exact ingredients and indications can vary. For example, the well-known Unilab version sold in the Philippines contains a specific combination of decongestant, antihistamine, and analgesic drugs. In contrast, the Biofarm version found in Romania has a different set of active ingredients to achieve similar symptomatic relief.
Bioflu (Unilab) in the Philippines: Ingredients and Uses
This is one of the most widely recognized versions of the medication. The tablet formulation contains three key active ingredients, each targeting a different set of symptoms:
- Paracetamol (500mg): An effective analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). It works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins in the central nervous system, which are involved in pain and fever pathways.
- Phenylephrine HCl (10mg): A nasal decongestant that constricts blood vessels in the nasal passages. This action reduces swelling and obstruction, making it easier to breathe and alleviating postnasal drip.
- Chlorphenamine Maleate (2mg): An antihistamine that blocks the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions and the body's response to viruses. This helps relieve allergy-like symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes.
Based on these ingredients, Bioflu (Unilab) is used for the following:
- Fever and Body Aches: Paracetamol helps to reduce the fever and body pain associated with the flu.
- Clogged and Runny Nose: The combination of a decongestant (phenylephrine) and an antihistamine (chlorphenamine) provides relief for blocked and dripping nasal passages.
- Sneezing and Itchy Eyes: Chlorphenamine targets the allergic-like symptoms common with colds.
- Cough from Postnasal Drip: By reducing postnasal drip, the medication helps to alleviate the cough it can cause.
Bioflu Formulations in Other Regions
It is crucial to be aware that the ingredients in Bioflu can differ by country. In regions like Romania, for instance, a different product is manufactured under the same name by Biofarm.
- Bioflu (Biofarm) Capsules: This version contains Paracetamol, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, and Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide. It is indicated for nasal congestion, nonproductive cough, fever, and pain associated with respiratory infections. Pseudoephedrine is another type of nasal decongestant, while dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant.
- Bioflu Hot Drink (Biofarm): This variant contains Paracetamol, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), and Chlorphenamine Maleate. It provides symptom relief in a hot beverage format, with the addition of Vitamin C to support the immune system.
Comparison of Bioflu Formulations
Because Bioflu is a brand name used for different products, comparing the main formulations helps clarify their respective uses. This table highlights the key differences between the Unilab (Philippines) tablet and the Biofarm (Romania) capsule.
| Feature | Bioflu (Unilab) Tablet | Bioflu (Biofarm) Capsule |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Unilab, Inc. (Philippines) | S.C. Biofarm S.A. (Romania) |
| Key Active Ingredients | Phenylephrine HCl, Chlorphenamine Maleate, Paracetamol | Pseudoephedrine HCl, Dextromethorphan HBr, Paracetamol |
| Nasal Congestion Relief | Phenylephrine HCl (decongestant) | Pseudoephedrine HCl (decongestant) |
| Anti-Allergy Action | Chlorphenamine Maleate (antihistamine) | N/A (Does not contain an antihistamine) |
| Cough Relief | Chlorphenamine indirectly relieves cough from postnasal drip | Dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant) |
| Fever/Pain Relief | Paracetamol | Paracetamol |
Safety Information and Precautions
Regardless of the formulation, some precautions are common across Bioflu products:
Liver Damage Risk: The paracetamol in Bioflu can cause severe liver damage if taken in excessive doses, with other paracetamol-containing products, or with heavy alcohol use.
Drowsiness: Formulations containing chlorphenamine maleate can cause drowsiness. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery.
Contraindications: Individuals with high blood pressure, severe heart disease, liver or kidney disease, or glaucoma should consult a doctor before use.
Not Antiviral: Bioflu is for symptom management and does not target or eliminate the virus causing the infection.
Conclusion
In summary, the drug Bioflu is used for the symptomatic relief of cold and flu symptoms, but its specific function depends entirely on its regional formulation. In the Philippines, the Unilab version uses a combination of a decongestant, an antihistamine, and paracetamol to address multiple symptoms like congestion, runny nose, pain, and fever. Other formulations, such as those available in Romania, may contain different active ingredients to provide relief. For optimal safety and effectiveness, it is essential to identify the specific product and follow its usage instructions. For further information on the Philippine formulation, refer to the official manufacturer's page.
Visit the official Unilab product page for more information on Bioflu (Philippines)
