Nintedanib
Prescription Required
Indications
Ofev is a lung medication used to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and chronic interstitial lung disease.
Nintedanib is an antifibrotic drug that inhibits intracellular tyrosine kinases to reduce the rate of lung function decline by blocking the development of fibrotic tissues. Thanks to its inhibitory actions, Ofev helps slow the progression of IPF as well as other fibrosing lung conditions.
This antifibrotic medication is an effective form of treatment for slowing the progression and decline of various fibrosing lung diseases, especially idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Diarrhea is a common side effect of Ofev, but is otherwise generally well-tolerated.
Uses and Dosage
The dose of Ofev that is prescribed will vary depending on the individual and fibrosing condition being treated. Follow all your doctor’s directives and read the packaging labels carefully when using new medications.
- Swallow capsules whole, do not chew or break
- Take every 12 hours
- Take with food
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
- Most adults take 150mg twice daily
- Adults should not take more than 300mg daily
- Your doctor may recommend using anti-diarrhea medication
- You may need frequent liver function tests
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Side Effects
Ofev may cause some side effects to develop while slowing the progression of scar tissue formation in your lungs. Speak with your doctor for more information regarding symptoms that you may encounter when taking Ofev.
Common Ofev side effects:
- Nausea, vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea, weight loss
- Increased blood pressure
- Headache
- Abnormal liver function tests
Serious Side Effects
Some more serious adverse reactions may occur when taking nintedanib. Stop using Ofev and call your doctor if you develop any of the following side effects:
- Severe ongoing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Severe stomach pain, bloating, or tenderness
- Bleeding from your rectum or bloody stools
- Easy bruising or bleeding, any wounds that won’t heal
- Fever, chills, cough with mucus, chest pain, shortness of breath
- Heart attack symptoms (chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating)
- Liver problems (stomach pain on upper right side, loss of appetite, tiredness, dark urine, jaundice)
- Signs of a stroke (sudden numbness or weakness especially on one side of your body, slurred speech, vision or balance problems)
Problems with liver function may be more likely to occur in women, those who weigh under 143 pounds, and those of Asian descent.
Allergic Reactions
Do not use Ofev if you are allergic to any of the listed ingredients. If you develop signs of an allergic reaction, stop using this medication and contact your doctor right away.
Ofev allergy symptoms may include:
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling in face, lips, tongue, or throat
Cautions
Avoid smoking while using Ofev because it can reduce the medicine’s efficacy.
Avoid taking herbal supplements that contain St. John’s wort while using Ofev.
Do not use this medication if you are pregnant; nintedanib can cause birth defect or death in your unborn baby. Use effective birth control with an extra barrier method while taking Ofev and for three months after your last dose.
To ensure your safety in taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have ever had any of the following:
- Liver disease
- Heart problems
- Blood clot
- Bleeding problems
- Stomach or intestinal surgery
- Diverticulitis
- If you smoke
- If you take a blood thinner
Ofev may affect your fertility, but it is still important that you use effective measures of birth control to prevent pregnancy.
Consult with your doctor before using any nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or celecoxib. These medications can cause you to bruise or bleed easily, especially when taken with Ofev.
Some other drugs may interact with nintedanib and cause adverse reactions. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take to ensure your safety, including over the counter medicine, vitamins, and herbal products.
Do not breast feed while using Ofev.
Ofev is not an approved treatment for anyone under the age of 18.
Form and Strength
This antifibrotic medication is available in capsule form.
Ofev capsule strength:
- 150mg
The 150mg Ofev capsules are available in quantities of 60.
FAQ
How long can you take Ofev?
Studies have found Ofev to be safe when taken long-term. Check up with your doctor to ensure the medication continues slowing your fibrotic condition.
How does Ofev work?
Ofev uses nintedanib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, to block the ability for scar tissue cells to grow and spread. By taking this medication daily, you can slow the progression of various fibrotic conditions including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Resources:
Additional information
Scientific Name: |
Nintedanib |
|---|---|
Formulation: |
Soft-Gel Capsule |
Strength(s): |
100mg, 150mg |
Quantities Available: |
60, 120, 180 |
