Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Nintedanib is a kinase inhibitor medication that is utilized for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a condition characterized by scarring of the lungs. It is also indicated for certain types of chronic fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (ILD), which are ongoing diseases characterized by increased scarring of the lungs.
Nintedanib can also be used to slow the rate of decline in lung function in individuals with systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD), also known as scleroderma-associated ILD, a severe and often fatal condition characterized by lung scarring. Nintedanib works by blocking the action of enzymes involved in causing fibrosis.
Uses and Dosage
Nintedanib is administered orally in the form of capsules. It is typically taken with food every 12 hours, twice a day. Take it at approximately the same times each day. Nintedanib should be taken exactly as directed by your healthcare provider, and it should not be taken in higher or lower doses or more frequently than prescribed.
The capsules should be swallowed whole with liquid, without chewing or crushing them.
During the course of your treatment, communicate any changes in how you feel to your doctor, as they may need to adjust your dosage or discontinue the treatment due to severe side effects.
Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- vomiting
- decreased appetite
- weight loss
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- diarrhea
- extreme tiredness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- lack of energy
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- dark or brown urine
- chest pain
- pain in your arms, back, neck, or jaw
- shortness of breath
- numbness or weakness on one side of your body
- difficulty speaking
- headache
- dizziness
- wounds that do not heal
- pain or swelling in your stomach area
- rash
- itching
Caution
Prior to initiating nintedanib treatment, inform your physician or pharmacist of any known allergies, including allergies to nintedanib or other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
Before commencing the use of this medication, disclose your medical history, particularly if you have a history of liver disease, heart disease, hypertension, blood clotting disorders, blood vessel issues (such as aneurysm or aortic tear/rupture), recent abdominal surgery, or gastrointestinal conditions (such as ulcers or diverticular disease) to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, notify your doctor. Usage of nintedanib during pregnancy is contraindicated as it may harm the developing fetus. Your physician should conduct a pregnancy test prior to initiating this medication. Reliable methods of contraception, such as condoms, should be discussed with your healthcare provider while using nintedanib and for at least three months following discontinuation of treatment.
If you become pregnant while on this medication, consult your doctor immediately to assess the risks and benefits of continued use.
The transfer of nintedanib into breast milk is not well-established. Consult your physician before breastfeeding while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Ofev is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Ofev capsule:
- 150mg
-
nintedanib capsule:
- 150mg
FAQ
Does Ofev improve breathing?
Clinical studies have shown that Ofev reduced the rate of lung function decline compared to those who were not treated with the drug.
Does Ofev have to be taken exactly 12 hours apart?
Ofev is usually taken twice per day. The timing of your doses should be about 12 hours apart.
Resources
- https://pulmonaryfibrosisnews.com/news/ipf-patients-live-longer-on-nintedanib-pooled-data-from-six-trials-show/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/ofev-dosage#how-its-taken
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/ofev
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-167137/ofev-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a615009.html
- https://www.drugs.com/ofev.html
