Nimesulide

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Joseph Blais, Pharmacist

Last updated on 24/03/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Nimesulide

CHINESE NAME: 尼美舒利

BRAND NAME(S) IN HONG KONG: Aponil, Emdon, Nicox, Nidol, Nimill, Niyan, Sharonim

DRUG CLASS: Analgesic; Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug,

USED FOR: Acute pain, including menstrual pain

OTHER DRUGS IN THE SAME CLASS: Aspirin, Ibuprofen, etc

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS:
– 100mg (tablets)

What is Nimesulide for?

Nimesulide belongs to a class of medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen. It blocks the production of prostaglandin to relieve pain. Therefore, it is used to treat acute pain and dysmenorrhoea.

How to use it?

Nimesulide can be taken by mouth as tablets and sachets. It is only used in children older than 12 years and adults. The usual daily dose is 50 to 100 mg.

What are the side effects of Nimesulide?

Like all NSAIDS, the main side effects of Nimesulide are indigestion, nausea, bleeding gastric ulcer, and allergic reaction. With long-term use, Nimesulide can cause kidney injury, bleeding and increase the risk of a cardiovascular event. It may cause liver toxicity.

Who should not take Nimesulide?

– Anyone who has allergic reactions after taking Aspirin or other NSAIDs. Discuss with your doctor if you have ever got symptoms such as hives and flushing after taking Aspirin or other NSAIDs to see if you could change to another drug instead
– Anyone who has an allergy to Nimesulide or any other components of the product
– People with heart failure, or uncontrolled high blood pressure
– People with active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration

Pharmacist Tips:

– Many NSAIDs are available in Hong Kong and should not be used while taking Nimesulide.
– For Nimesulide sachet, dissolve the powder in water and stir thoroughly before taking.

Common dosing schedule:
You may take Nimesulide with or without food. Take with food to prevent stomach upset.

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications Nimesulide may interact with:
– Lithium
– Cyclosporin
– Methotrexate
– Other NSAIDs, e.g. Aspirin
– Diuretics, e.g. Frusemide
– SSRI, e.g. Fluoxetine, Paroxetine

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Nimesulide in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Nimesulide is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Nimesulide in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.