Nimesulide Latest News
The government recently prohibited the manufacturing, sale and distribution of all oral formulations containing Nimesulide above 100 mg with immediate effect.
About Nimesulide
- First introduced in Italy in 1985, it is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and fever-reducing effects.
- It is commonly used to manage acute pain, musculoskeletal disorders, dental pain, and symptoms associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis and dysmenorrhea.
- Nimesulide works by inhibiting the action of cyclooxygenase (COX), an enzyme responsible for the production of prostaglandins-chemicals that cause pain, inflammation, and fever.
- By blocking this enzyme, Nimesulide reduces the levels of prostaglandins, thus providing relief from pain and inflammation.
- By targeting the underlying inflammatory process rather than just masking the pain, Nimesulide helps relieve swelling, improves mobility and function in affected areas, and enhances overall comfort and quality of life.
Side Effects of Nimesulide
- Long-term usage may harm the liver or result in significant side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding or renal issues.
- Apart from this, other side effects like sour stomach, dizziness, skin infection, diarrhoea, and increased liver enzymes might be observed in individuals.
Regulation of Nimesulide
- From its early years, nimesulide attracted safety concerns and was never approved for use in countries including the United States, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.
- In 2008, the International Society of Drug Bulletins, a WHO-supported network, called for a global ban on nimesulide.
- India banned the use of nimesulide in children below 12 years of age in 2011 but continued to allow its use in older patients. However, concerns have persisted.
Source: News On Air
Nimesulide FAQs
Q1: What is Nimesulide primarily used for?
Ans: Pain relief and inflammation
Q2: What type of drug is Nimesulide?
Ans: Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic
Q3: Nimesulide is a COX-2 inhibitor. What does this mean?
Ans: It selectively inhibits COX-2 enzyme.
Q4: Which organ is primarily affected by Nimesulide toxicity?
Ans: Liver