Generic
Nefopam Hydrochloride
5 brands available in the market
At a glance
Nefopam Hydrochloride is a centrally-acting non-opioid analgesic used for moderate to severe pain. It blocks transmission of pain signals to the brain to decrease pain perception.
Description
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). The mechanism of action is at least in part by altering the levels of these neuromodulators in the brain and at the spinal level.
Indications
- Acute pain (post-operative, dental, musculo-skeletal and acute traumatic)
- Chronic pain (including cancer pain)
Therapeutic class
Non-Opioid Analgesics
Pharmacological class
Centrally-acting Analgesic
Pharmacology
Nefopam inhibits re-uptake of catecholamines to alter neurotransmitter levels in the CNS, blocking pain signal transmission.
Mechanism of action
Relieves pain by blocking transmission of pain signals to the brain.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Initial: 2 tablets (60 mg) three times daily
- Range: 30-90 mg three times daily based on response
Elderly Dose: 1 tablet (30 mg) three times daily (initial)
Injection: IM: 20 mg, repeated every 6 hours; slow IV: 20 mg
Administration
- Take with food
- Swallow tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- Take at the same time each day
- Injection: Administered by doctor or nurse IM/IV
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Dry mouth
- Lightheadedness
- Urinary retention
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Drowsiness
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Headache
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Tachycardia
- Aggravation of angina
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in glaucoma and risk of urinary retention
- Caution with concurrent tricyclic antidepressants
- Caution in history of ischaemic heart disease
- Caution while driving (may cause drowsiness and dizziness)
- Avoid alcohol
Contraindications
- History of convulsive disorders
- Patients taking MAO inhibitors
- Should not be used in myocardial infarction
Drug interactions
No known interactions.
Food interactions
Alcohol may cause excessive drowsiness.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Not recommended for pregnant women.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Nefopam is excreted in human milk; discontinue nursing or discontinue medication.
Pediatric use
Not recommended for children under 12 years.
Geriatric use
Elderly may require reduced dosage due to slower metabolism.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information available; consult doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information available; consult doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose: Neurological symptoms (convulsions, hallucinations, agitation) and cardiovascular response (tachycardia); treat with gastric lavage, emesis, diuresis, activated charcoal, diazepam and beta-blockers.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C; protect from light & moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Nefopam Hydrochloride