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Many patients are undecided between Nolotil (metamizole) and Enantyum (dexketoprofen), both work well, but they are not equivalent. Enantyum is usually a better fit if there is inflammation and you are looking for fast relief. On the other hand, Nolotil can be useful for crampy or very intense pain when prescribed by a doctor.
Both are prescription medications and should be used for the shortest time possible; do not combine or alternate them without medical advice.
| medicine | Start of action | Common uses |
|---|---|---|
| Nolotil | 30–60 min | Severe pain (post-operative, cancer-related) |
| Enantyum | 30 min | Moderate acute pain (renal, dental) |
Are Nolotil and Enantyum the same thing?
No. Nolotil contains metamizole and Enantyum contains dexketoprofen, and that's why they aren't chosen for the same reasons. Enantyum is an anti-inflammatory, while Nolotil is more notable for its analgesic and antispasmodic effects.
Which is stronger: Nolotil or Enantyum?
When the pain is extremely intense, Nolotil is often seen as the more powerful painkiller, whereas Enantyum tends to stand out for its quicker onset.
In practical terms, Enantyum begins to provide relief in about 30 minutes, making it useful for moderate acute pain such as toothache or kidney stones. If taken with food, the effect may take longer to be felt.
Nolotil is effective for postoperative or cancer pain, but its onset of action is somewhat longer, around 30–60 minutes. If speed is the priority, dexketoprofen is usually preferred; if potency for very intense pain is the priority, metamizole may be considered under medical supervision.
Can Nolotil and Enantyum be taken together or alternated?
Only with a doctor's guidance. There's no universal rule like "every 4 hours" because it depends on the cause of the pain, your medical history, and other medications. If a professional has prescribed it, follow that schedule exactly and ask if you have any questions.
If the pain does not improve or worsens, it is safest to review the diagnosis rather than adjusting doses or combining medications on your own.
When does each one usually fit best depending on the type of pain?
Toothache is often accompanied by inflammation, so an anti-inflammatory like Enantyum can be suitable in many cases, provided you have no contraindications. Nolotil can relieve pain, but it doesn't work as effectively on inflammation.
When there is an inflammatory component to back pain or sciatica, an anti-inflammatory like Enantyum is often a common choice if it's safe for you. Nolotil may be helpful if the pain is very intense or if your doctor recommends a strong pain reliever, but the choice depends on your medical history.
For occasional headaches, paracetamol is more commonly used, as it may irritate the stomach less than anti-inflammatories.
Important: This text is for guidance only. Always consult the official package leaflet and follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions regarding dosage, duration, and method of use.
