AI Summary
Generated by AI for informational purposes only
This medicine is a painkiller used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It is not an opioid and works differently from common pain relievers. It is generally not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Indications
Nefopam Hydrochloride is indicated for the relief of acute pain, including post-operative, dental, musculo-skeletal and acute traumatic pain. It is also indicated in chronic pain like cancer pain.
Pharmacology
Nefopam Hydrochloride is a centrally acting analgesic with a rapid onset of action. The main site of action appears to be in the central nervous system both at the brain and spinal levels. In vitro experiments have shown Nefopam to inhibit the re-uptake of various catecholamines (including noradrenaline, serotonin and dopamine). It is possible that the mechanism of action of nefopam is at least in part by altering the levels of these neuromodulators in the brain and at the spinal level.
Dosage & Administration
Important: Do not take any medication without a doctor's prescription. Self-medication can be dangerous.
Tablet-
Adults: Dosage may range from 30 to 90 mg three times daily depending on response. The recommended starting dosage is 2 tablets three times daily.
Elderly: Elderly patients may require reduced dosage due to slower metabolism. It is strongly recommended that the starting dose does not exceed 1 tablet 3 times daily.
Injection-
Adult: 20 mg by IM injection, repeated every 6 hours if necessary. It also be given by slow IV injection in similar dose.
Children: Not recommended for children under the age of 12 years.
Contraindications
Nefopam Hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with a history of convulsive disorders and should not be given to patients taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. It is also should not be used in the treatment of myocardial infarction.
Side Effects
Nefopam Hydrochloride is generally well tolerated. However the most common side-effects are nausea, nervousness, dry mouth, lightheadedness and urinary retention. The less common side-effects are vomiting, blurred vision, drowsiness, sweating, insomnia, headache, confusion, hallucinations, tachycardia and aggravation of angina.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Nefopam Hydrochloride is not recommended for pregnant women. Evidence suggests that nefopam is excreted in human milk. A decision should made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the medication, taking into account the potential for adverse effects for the foetus and the importance of treatment to the mother.
Precautions & Warnings
Nefopam Hydrochloride should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma and with or at risk of urinary retention. Caution should be exercised when Nefopam is administered concurrently with tricyclic antidepressants. Caution should also be exercised in patients with a history of ischaemic heart disease.
Overdose Effects
Nefopam toxicity is manifested by neurological symptoms (convulsions, hallucinations, agitation) and cardiovascular response (tachycardia with hyperdynamic circulation). Supportive treatment is suggested including gastric lavage, forced emesis and diuresis. Oral administration of activated charcoal may help prevent absorption. Convulsions and hallucinations may be controlled with diazepam. Beta-adrenergic blockers may be of use in controlling the cardiovascular complications.
Storage Conditions
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
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