Nefopam (Tablets, Solution) Instructions for Use
ATC Code
N02BG06 (Nefopam)
Active Substance
Nefopam (Rec.INN registered by WHO)
Clinical-Pharmacological Group
Non-opioid centrally acting analgesic
Pharmacotherapeutic Group
Centrally acting analgesic agent
Pharmacological Action
Non-narcotic centrally acting analgesic agent.
In vitro, Nefopam inhibited the reuptake of dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin in rat synaptosomes.
In vivo, Nefopam demonstrated antinociceptive activity in animals, possibly by reducing glutamate release at the presynaptic level and activating N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors at the postsynaptic level.
Nefopam showed a positive effect on postoperative shivering in clinical studies.
Nefopam does not have anti-inflammatory or antipyretic effects, does not depress respiration, and does not affect intestinal peristalsis.
Nefopam has a slight m-cholinolytic effect.
During studies, a temporary and moderate increase in heart rate and blood pressure was observed.
Pharmacokinetics
After a single 20 mg intramuscular dose, the maximum serum concentration is observed after 30-60 minutes and averages 25 ng/ml.
The elimination half-life (T1/2) averages 5 hours.
After a 20 mg intravenous dose, the T1/2 averages 4 hours.
Plasma protein binding is 71-76%.
Biotransformation is significant; three main metabolites have been identified: desmethylnefopam, Nefopam N-oxide, and Nefopam N-glucuronide.
Desmethylnefopam and Nefopam N-oxide are not glucuronidated in the liver and do not exhibit analgesic activity in animal studies.
It is excreted mainly by the kidneys: 87% of the administered dose is present in the urine, less than 5% of the administered dose is excreted unchanged.
The metabolites found in the urine account for 6%, 3%, and 36% of the intravenously administered dose, respectively.
Indications
Symptomatic treatment of acute pain syndrome, including postoperative pain.
ICD codes
| ICD-10 code | Indication |
| R52.0 | Acute pain |
| R52.2 | Other chronic pain |
| ICD-11 code | Indication |
| MG30.Z | Chronic pain syndrome, unspecified |
| MG31.Z | Acute pain, unspecified |
Dosage Regimen
| The method of application and dosage regimen for a specific drug depend on its form of release and other factors. The optimal dosage regimen is determined by the doctor. It is necessary to strictly adhere to the compliance of the dosage form of a specific drug with the indications for use and dosage regimen. |
Solution
The dose is set individually. The dose should correspond to the intensity of the pain syndrome and the patient’s response.
Intramuscularly – 20 mg 3-4 times/day.
Intravenously administered as an infusion. The recommended single dose is 20 mg. If necessary, the administration can be repeated every 4 hours. During the administration of Nefopam and for 15-20 minutes after the injection, the patient should be in a lying position.
The maximum daily dose is 120 mg.
Tablets
The dose is set individually. Depending on the severity of the pain syndrome, take 30-90 mg orally 3 times/day. The maximum daily dose is 120 mg.
Adverse Reactions
From the central nervous system, psyche very common – drowsiness; common – dizziness; rare – convulsions, irritability, agitation, hallucinations, drug dependence; frequency unknown – confusion, coma.
From the digestive system very common – nausea, vomiting; common – dry mouth.
Allergic reactions rare – hypersensitivity, urticaria, angioedema, anaphylactic shock.
Other very common – increased sweating; common – tachycardia, urinary retention; rare – malaise.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to Nefopam; children under 15 years of age (due to lack of clinical data); convulsions or history of convulsions, epilepsy; risk of urinary retention caused by diseases of the urethra and/or prostate gland; risk of acute glaucoma; pregnancy, breastfeeding period.
Caution should be exercised in hepatic insufficiency; in renal insufficiency (due to the risk of accumulation and, consequently, an increased risk of adverse events); in patients with cardiovascular pathology, as the drug may cause tachycardia; the use of Nefopam in elderly patients is not recommended due to its anticholinergic effect.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Due to the lack of animal studies and clinical data in humans, the risk of using the drug has not been established, therefore Nefopam is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Use in Hepatic Impairment
Use with caution in patients with impaired liver function.
Use in Renal Impairment
Use with caution in patients with impaired renal function.
Pediatric Use
Contraindicated in children under 15 years of age.
Geriatric Use
Use with caution in elderly persons.
Special Precautions
When using Nefopam, there is a risk of drug dependence.
Nefopam does not belong to narcotic analgesics and opioid antagonists. Thus, discontinuation of treatment with narcotic analgesics in dependent patients who are already receiving Nefopam therapy increases the risk of withdrawal syndrome.
The benefit/risk ratio during treatment with the drug should be constantly re-evaluated.
It should not be prescribed for the treatment of chronic pain syndromes.
It should not be used concomitantly with alcohol, ethanol-containing, and sedative drugs.
Effect on the ability to drive vehicles and operate machinery
During treatment, it is not recommended to drive vehicles or engage in other activities requiring increased concentration and speed of psychomotor reactions due to the possible occurrence of drowsiness and, as a consequence, reduced alertness.
Drug Interactions
Concomitant use with narcotic drugs (analgesics, antitussives, and drugs for substitution therapy of dependence), neuroleptics, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics (such as meprobamate), hypnotics, sedative antidepressants (amitriptyline, doxepin, mianserin, mirtazapine, trimipramine), sedative H1-histamine receptor blockers, centrally acting antihypertensive drugs, baclofen, thalidomide, and other sedative agents is not recommended, as this may enhance central nervous system depression and lead to reduced alertness.
Ethanol and ethanol-containing preparations enhance the sedative effect of Nefopam.
Storage Conditions
Store at 2°C (36°F) to 25°C (77°F). Keep in original packaging, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Dispensing Status
Rx Only
Important Safety Information
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before use. Dosage and side effects may vary. Use only as prescribed.
Medical DisclaimerBrand (or Active Substance), Marketing Authorisation Holder, Dosage Form
Infusion and intramuscular injection solution 10 mg/1 ml: amp. 2 ml 5 pcs.
Marketing Authorization Holder
B-PHARM, LLC (Russia)
Manufactured By
Kursk Biopharmaceutical Plant – Firm "Biok", FKP (Russia)
Dosage Form
| Nefopam | Infusion and intramuscular injection solution 10 mg/1 ml: amp. 2 ml 5 pcs. |
Dosage Form, Packaging, and Composition
Solution for infusion and intramuscular injection transparent, colorless.
| 1 ml | |
| Nefopam hydrochloride | 10 mg |
Excipients : sodium phosphate dibasic dodecahydrate – 1.72 mg, sodium phosphate monobasic dihydrate – 16.1075 mg, water for injections – up to 1 ml.
2 ml – ampoules (5) – cardboard packs.
Infusion and intramuscular solution 10 mg/ml: 2 ml vial 5 pcs.
Marketing Authorization Holder
R-Pharm JSC (Russia)
Dosage Form
| Nefopam | Infusion and intramuscular solution 10 mg/ml: 2 ml vial 5 pcs. |
Dosage Form, Packaging, and Composition
Solution for infusion and intramuscular injection transparent, colorless.
| 1 vial | |
| Nefopam hydrochloride | 20 mg |
Excipients : sodium phosphate dibasic dodecahydrate – 3.44 mg, sodium phosphate monobasic dihydrate – 32.215 mg, water for injections – up to 2 ml.
2 ml – vials (5) – cardboard packs.
Infusion and intramuscular injection solution 10 mg/1 ml: amp. 2 ml 5 pcs.
Marketing Authorization Holder
Ecofarmplus, JSC (Russia)
Dosage Form
| Nefopam | Infusion and intramuscular injection solution 10 mg/1 ml: amp. 2 ml 5 pcs. |
Dosage Form, Packaging, and Composition
Solution for infusion and intramuscular injection transparent, colorless, odorless.
| 1 ml | |
| Nefopam hydrochloride (calculated as dry substance) | 10 mg |
Excipients : sodium phosphate monobasic dihydrate – 16.1075 mg, sodium phosphate dibasic dodecahydrate – 1.72 mg, water for injections – up to 1 ml.
2 ml – ampoules of neutral glass (5) – contour cell packaging made of polyvinyl chloride film (1) – cardboard packs.
Infusion and intramuscular solution 10 mg/1 ml: 2 ml amp. 5 pcs. and 2 ml syringe-tubes 1, 2, or 5 pcs.
Marketing Authorization Holder
Endocrine Technologies, LLC (Russia)
Manufactured By
Moscow Endocrine Plant FSUE (Russia)
Dosage Form
| Nefopam | Infusion and intramuscular solution 10 mg/1 ml: 2 ml amp. 5 pcs. and 2 ml syringe-tubes 1, 2, or 5 pcs. |
Dosage Form, Packaging, and Composition
Solution for infusion and intramuscular injection in the form of a colorless, transparent liquid.
| 1 ml | |
| Nefopam hydrochloride | 10 mg |
Excipients : sodium phosphate dibasic dodecahydrate – 1.72 mg, sodium phosphate monobasic dihydrate – 16.11 mg, water for injections – up to 1 ml.
2 ml – ampoules of colorless glass (5) – contour cell packaging (1) – cardboard packs.
2 ml – polyethylene syringe-tubes (1) – cardboard packs.
2 ml – polyethylene syringe-tubes (2) – cardboard packs.
2 ml – polyethylene syringe-tubes (5) – cardboard packs.
Film-coated tablets, 30 mg: 20 pcs.
Marketing Authorization Holder
Endocrine Technologies, LLC (Russia)
Manufactured By
Moscow Endocrine Plant FSUE (Russia)
Dosage Form
| Nefopam | Film-coated tablets, 30 mg: 20 pcs. |
Dosage Form, Packaging, and Composition
Film-coated tablets white or almost white, round, biconvex; the core in cross-section is from almost white to light brown.
| 1 tab. | |
| Nefopam hydrochloride | 30 mg |
Excipients : microcrystalline cellulose – 79.1 mg, povidone type K-30 – 2.7 mg, calcium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate – 7.8 mg, copovidone – 1.3 mg, pregelatinized starch – 6.5 mg, colloidal silicon dioxide – 1.3 mg, magnesium stearate – 1.3 mg.
Film coating composition ready-made white film coating – 4 mg, incl.: hypromellose (E464) – 2.96 mg, titanium dioxide (E171) – 1.04 mg.
10 pcs. – contour cell packaging (2) – cardboard packs.
