Nimesulide

Nimesulide is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for pain relief, fever and inflammation associated with several inflammatory diseases. It was first introduced in clinical use in early 1990s. It is available in the form of tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, suspensions or syrups.

Uses For

Nimesulide is generally used for the relief of acute and chronic pain relief associated with various infections such as dental pain, dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual cramps),musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis and acute gouty arthritis. It is also used for symptomatic relief of fever like spongy fever and recurrent fever.

Brand Name Nimesulide
Type
Weight
Generic Nimesulide
Manufacturer
Available in English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Nimesulide works by inhibiting the inflammatory enzyme, cyclooxygenase (COX). This enzyme is responsible for the production of prostaglandins which are necessary for the inflammatory process. By inhibiting this enzyme, COX-2 mediates the anti-inflammatory effects of Nimesulide .

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Nimesulide typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour to become effective. The onset of action varies among individuals depending on the type and intensity of the pain.

Absorption

Nimesulide is quickly and completely absorbed after oral administration. It reaches the peak serum level within 1-2 hours. The plasma half-life of Nimesulide is approximately 1 hour.

Route of Elimination

Nimesulide is mainly eliminated through the faecal route, with only a small fraction being eliminated through the urine.

Dosage

The recommended dose of Nimesulide is 10-25mg twice a day, with an increase of up to 50mg per dose after 3-5 days if required. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 100mg. It should be taken with food to reduce gastric irritation.

Administration

Nimesulide can be taken orally or rectally, depending on the form. It is available in the form of tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, suspensions or syrups for oral administration. It can also be administered intramuscularly, subcutaneously or intravenously.

Side Effect

Common side effects associated with Nimesulide use include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, rash, itching, dry mouth and increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration. Other rare but serious side effects include, insomnia, depression, anxiety, blurred vision, confusion, hallucination, anaphylaxis and liver injury.

Toxicity

The most severe toxic effect due to Nimesulide overdose is liver injury with prolonged use of high doses. Other toxicities that may occur due to overdose include gastrointestinal bleeding, convulsions, hypotension, shock, nephrotoxicity and respiratory depression.

Precaution

Nimesulide should be taken with caution in patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal bleeding, liver and kidney ailments. It should be used with caution in elderly and in children, as it has a higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in these patients. It should not be used in pregnant and breastfeeding women as it can affect the foetus or baby.

Interaction

Nimesulide can interact with other drugs like antiplatelet agents, high blood pressure medications, and cyclosporine. So, it should be taken with caution when taken with other medications. Also, it should be taken with caution in patients with allergy to other non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,and should not be taken if you are taking aspirin.

Disease Interaction

Nimesulide should be used with caution in patients with bleeding disorders, heart or kidney diseases, as it can cause a further increase in the risk of serious side effects. Also, it should not be used if you have a history of asthma, as it can trigger an asthma attack.

Drug Interaction

Nimesulide may interact with other medications like anticoagulants, aspirin, corticosteroids, antimalarials, lithium, aspirin, phenytoin, phenobarbital and warfarin. So, if you are taking any of these drugs, you should inform your doctor.

Food Interactions

Nimesulide should be taken with food to reduce stomach irritation. Alcohol should be avoided while using Nimesulide ; as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Pregnancy Use

Nimesulide should not be used during pregnancy as it can affect the health of the baby or the mother. The risks associated with taking Nimesulide are more than the benefits during pregnancy. So, it is recommended to avoid taking Nimesulide during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

Nimesulide should not be used during lactation as it can get into the breast milk, which may affect the baby. Also, the risks associated with taking Nimesulide are more than the benefits during lactation.

Acute Overdose

Acute overdose of Nimesulide may lead to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, abdominal pain, dizziness, sweating, and confusion. Liver and kidney toxicity can also occur due to prolonged use or overdose. In case of acute overdose, immediate medical attention should be sought.

Contraindication

Nimesulide should not be used in patients with hypersensitivity to this drug, those with pre-existing liver, kidney, and heart diseases, and those with gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers. It should also not be used in pregnant and breastfeeding women, and in patients taking aspirin.

Use Directions

Nimesulide should be administered as per the doctor’s advice. It should not be taken in excess of the recommended dose, and should be taken with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. It should also be stored at room temperature and should be kept away from direct sunlight.

Storage Condition

Nimesulide should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture. It should be kept out of reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Nimesulide is 0.3 L per kg.

Half Life

The half life of Nimesulide is 1 hour.

Clearance

The clearance of Nimesulide is 1.2 mL per minute per kg.

See in details version Nimesulide also Nimesulide in bangla

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Nimesulide

*** Taking medicines without doctor's advice can cause long-term problems.
Dr. Muhammad Manjurul Karim

Dr. Muhammad Manjurul Karim

Skin, Allergy, Hair, Nail, Leprosy & Sexual Diseases Specialist

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Dr. Nusrat Sultana

Dr. Nusrat Sultana

Dental & Oral Specialist Surgeon

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