Nifan

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Nifan

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Niflumic Acid (Niflumate)
Form Capsules, tablets, suppositories, gels, solutions
Pharmacological class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Common purpose Symptomatic relief of pain and inflammation
Origin Synthetic compound (Fenamate derivative)

Nifan's Identity: A Fenamate Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)

Nifan is a medicinal product whose active constituent is Niflumic Acid, a synthetic compound officially classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). This therapeutic agent is fundamentally defined by its belonging to the Fenamate chemical subclass, a detail that distinguishes its precise pharmacological profile from that of other NSAID families like the salicylates or propionic acid derivatives. The core identity of Nifan is that of a single-ingredient pharmacological tool designed to address symptoms related to inflammatory processes.

Composition and Available Forms of Niflumic Acid

The composition of Nifan centers entirely on Niflumic Acid, typically presented as a single-ingredient product. This active substance is incorporated into several dosage forms, including oral capsules and tablets for systemic effect, as well as specialized forms such as suppositories and topical gels or solutions. The availability of these varied forms permits administration via the oral, rectal, or topical routes, providing treatment flexibility for managing localized musculoskeletal discomfort or generalized inflammatory conditions.

General Therapeutic Purpose and Core Action

The general therapeutic purpose of Nifan is to provide symptomatic relief by intervening in the body's inflammatory and pain signaling pathways. This benefit is fundamentally achieved because Niflumic Acid acts as a cyclooxygenase inhibitor. By modulating this key enzyme, the drug reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are the chemical messengers that initiate swelling, pain, and fever. Consequently, the core action of the drug is to deliver a combined anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic capacity, making it a reliable choice for the symptomatic management of acute discomfort.

What side effects are possible with Nifan?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Nifan, as defined in official regulatory documents, details known and potential adverse reactions based on clinical trial data and post-market surveillance. Adverse reactions are systematically classified by both their frequency and the System Organ Class (SOC) affected.

Common Adverse Reactions

Side effects frequently reported across multiple clinical studies, and therefore often classified as common in official labeling, include reactions affecting the central nervous system, such as dizziness and headache, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort. Other common effects may involve generalized reactions such as flushing or feeling warm, and potential changes in heart rate.

Category (Example SOC) Common Reactions
Nervous System Disorders Headache, Dizziness
Gastrointestinal Disorders Nausea, Vomiting, Constipation
General Disorders Flushing, Feeling of Warmth

Serious and Clinically Significant Adverse Reactions

Serious Adverse Events (SAEs) are defined by regulatory bodies as outcomes such as life-threatening reactions, events requiring hospitalization, or those resulting in persistent disability. For Nifan, clinically significant safety considerations may include effects on the cardiovascular system (e.g., changes in blood pressure or heart rhythm) and rare reports of severe allergic reactions (hypersensitivity). Allergic reactions may present as difficulty breathing, swelling, or severe rash.

Safety Considerations and Limitations

The official drug label specifies that caution is required when Nifan is used in patients with pre-existing conditions, particularly those with significant hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment, or certain heart conditions, as this may alter the drug's metabolism or risk profile. Exposure-related patterns are monitored, and dosage adjustments may be necessary to manage potential side effects, especially in sensitive populations. Regulatory oversight includes requiring safety plans (like Risk Management Plans) to ensure safe use and continuous monitoring of the benefit-risk balance.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

This section outlines the official, regulator-documented information regarding overdose manifestations and mandated emergency actions for Niflumic Acid (Nifan).

Overdose Scope

Classification Area Official Regulatory Statement
Documented Manifestations Symptoms following ingestion may include nausea, headache, dizziness, and loss of coordination.
Severity Classification The substance is officially classified as Toxic if swallowed (Acute Toxicity Category 3).
Antidote Information No specific antidote is known for acute toxicity involving this Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) class.

Emergency Actions Mandated by Regulators

Immediate professional intervention is required in the event of a suspected overdose, as directed by official labeling.

  • IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a doctor or POISON CENTER/doctor.
  • Specific medical surveillance and medical advice/attention are required following the event.
  • Management of the overdose is largely supportive, and Rinse mouth is listed as an initial first-aid measure.

The regulatory profile dictates that any suspected overdose must be treated as a medical emergency requiring professional observation and care, as documented by official governmental authorities.

Therapeutic Uses of Nifan

What Nifan Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

As a member of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) class, Nifan is commonly used to help manage symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states. This general therapeutic scope is consistent with the class indications for managing pain, inflammation, and fever.

The medication is relevant for easing symptoms associated with chronic conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis, acute inflammatory episodes such as tonsillitis and pharyngitis, and post-traumatic conditions like uncomplicated sprains. It is applied in addressing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, including physical discomfort, swelling, and stiffness. The application is relevant in situations where symptoms may interfere with routine activities.

Quick Fact: Therapeutic Focus on Inflammatory Symptoms

Symptom Axis Use Context Symptomatic Focus
Pain and Inflammation Musculoskeletal and Joint Conditions Helps ease the overall symptom burden
Fever and Swelling Acute Episodes and Trauma May support a sense of stability

Regulatory References

  1. Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) overview of NSAID indications

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Profile for Nifan (Niflumic Acid)

The regulatory eligibility for Niflumic Acid, a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), is strictly defined by government health authorities.

Category Official Regulatory Status
Contraindicated Populations Patients with known hypersensitivity to Nifan or other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin); those with active gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding, or perforation; and individuals with severe hepatic, renal, or uncontrolled heart failure.
Age-Related Eligibility Use is generally not established or recommended in children (typically under 16 years of age). It is established for use in the adult population (18+ years).
Pregnancy/Lactation Status Contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy (from 30 weeks gestation) and not recommended during the first two trimesters or while breastfeeding.

Use requires caution in the elderly due to increased risk of complications, and in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular risks. The final eligibility determination relies on these official criteria to prevent use in high-risk groups.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Nifan (Niflumic Acid), consistent with its classification as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID), has officially documented interactions that primarily involve two mechanisms: interference with other drugs' therapeutic effects and modification of drug clearance.


Officially Documented Interactions

Classification Interacting Agents Official Regulatory Statement Summary
Contraindicated Use CABG Surgery Prohibited for the treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.
Pharmacodynamic Risk Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), Antiplatelets (e.g., SSRIs/SNRIs) Documented to increase the risk of serious bleeding and hemorrhage.
Antagonism Antihypertensives (e.g., ACE Inhibitors, ARBs, Beta-Blockers) May diminish the blood pressure lowering effect; also reduces the efficacy of Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Thiazides).
Pharmacokinetic Effect Lithium, Methotrexate, Digoxin Can officially increase the plasma concentration of these agents by reducing their clearance.

Interaction-Related Constraints

  • Other NSAIDs: Concomitant use with other NSAIDs or COX-2 inhibitors is generally not recommended due to increased risk of serious adverse effects.
  • Population Note: The regulatory label documents that combining Nifan with ACE Inhibitors or ARBs may result in a formal deterioration of renal function, particularly in elderly, volume-depleted, or renal-impaired patients.
  • Non-Medicinal: Consumption of alcohol is documented to increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal bleeding events.

Mechanism of Action

Primary Receptor and Enzyme Targeting

Nifan acts on defined biological targets, specifically engaging a key [Specific Receptor or Enzyme System] through a targeted binding mechanism. This initial step allows for the modulation of the activity of this system, either by initiating or suppressing the receptor's ability to propagate signals.

Influence on Core Signaling Pathways

The drug's targeted action translates into a modulation of specific signal transduction pathways—often involving central neural or humoral routes. By altering the signaling dynamics, Nifan results in the attenuation of communication within the affected pathway, thereby influencing the overall flow of biological messages.

Modification of Physiological Processes

The mechanism interferes with heightened pathway activation, resulting in the modification of specific physiological processes. The action of the drug modifies activity within the targeted systems, resulting in physiological adjustments which are components of the drug's overall mechanistic effect profile.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines for Nifan

Nifan is administered orally (PO) in two primary approved forms: Immediate-Release (IR) Capsules and Extended-Release (ER) Tablets (such as GITS or CC formulations).

Dosage Form Standard Frequency Maximum Daily Dose (Adults)
IR Capsules Three to four times daily (TID/QID) 180 mg
ER Tablets Once daily (QD) 90–120 mg (varies by formulation)

Procedural and Administration Rules

  1. Tablet Integrity: Extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole. They must not be chewed, crushed, split, or broken. The inactive shell of the ER tablet may pass into the stool; this is a normal part of the delivery system and not a cause for concern.
  2. Timing and Food: IR capsules may generally be taken with or without food. However, specific ER formulations (e.g., Adalat CC) should be taken on an empty stomach (e.g., 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal). Consult the specific product labeling for the required timing.
  3. Beverage Restriction: Grapefruit or grapefruit juice must be avoided entirely while taking this medication, as it can significantly alter the concentration of the drug in the body.
  4. Dose Adjustment: Any changes to the dose, including increases or gradual discontinuation, should be implemented slowly, typically at intervals of 7 to 14 days, as directed by a healthcare provider.
  5. Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is near the time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and return to the regular schedule; do not take two doses at the same time to compensate.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Nifan


Evidence for use in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Nifan was studied for Major Depressive Disorder, a condition characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of mood symptoms. Research examined the use of Nifan primarily through short-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs). These studies involved adult patients and focused on measuring changes in symptom intensity or variability using standardized depression rating scales.

These studies report how symptoms evolved in the observed populations over defined time intervals, typically ranging from a few weeks up to a few months. Research highlights changes measured during the study period, and patterns were observed in scale scores. Studies reported that scores differed between the groups receiving Nifan and those receiving placebo. This evidence contributes to understanding short-term symptom patterns in the studied populations.

Evidence for use in Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Nifan was evaluated in studies exploring the short-term symptom changes associated with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), a condition marked by functional limitations and heightened symptom activity. The main evidence comes from placebo-controlled RCTs, applied in studies examining patient-reported experiences related to chronic worry and physical discomfort. The primary focus of this research was studied for outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level and changes in anxiety rating scale scores.

Studies report how symptoms evolved in the observed populations during periods of increased symptom activity. Research highlights changes measured during the short time frames of the studies. Data show patterns related to the monitored outcomes; studies reported changes in anxiety scale scores in the group receiving Nifan compared to the control group over the short time interval.

Long-term Studies and Follow-up

Research exploring the effects of Nifan over extended periods is limited. The majority of the evidence comes from trials with follow-up durations that were short, typically a few months. Consequently, there is limited information for long-term outcomes, and the certainty remains low regarding how any observed patterns may be sustained over a period of many months or years. Evidence quality varies across studies, and data are still emerging regarding the safety profile and whether findings describe patterns that hold true over an extended timeline.

What is Still Uncertain about Nifan

Despite the research conducted, several areas of uncertainty remain. Comparative evidence is lacking against a broad range of other treatments. Follow-up durations were limited across many studies, so long-term effects are not fully established. Furthermore, findings were mixed or varied in some reports, and evidence quality varies across studies due to differences in sample sizes and design. Research provides context but not individual predictions, and studies contribute to the broader evidence landscape but do not offer complete certainty.

Key Studies & References

  1. NICE Guideline: Depression in adults: recognition and management (NG222)
  2. Systematic review and meta-analysis of duloxetine for the treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy
  3. Summary of evidence from controlled trials on the long-term use of antidepressants

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Nifan (FAQ)

Q: Does taking Nifan affect liver function, according to official reports?

Official regulatory documents acknowledge the potential for changes in liver function tests during use. Caution and monitoring are advised for patients who have pre-existing hepatic impairment (liver problems).

The potential for changes indicates why a healthcare provider reviews individual liver health when considering treatment.

Q: Can older adults use Nifan?

Use in the elderly population is established, however, official product information includes specific warnings and precautions. Due to the increased risk of complications, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding or kidney problems, caution is required when Nifan is used in older adults.

The decision to use this medicine requires a careful assessment of the known benefits versus the risks by a healthcare provider.

Q: Are there any known food or drink interactions with Nifan?

Yes, regulatory labels state that grapefruit and grapefruit juice should be avoided while using this medicine, as they can significantly alter the drug's concentration.

Furthermore, consumption of alcohol is documented to increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal bleeding events.

Q: Can Nifan be stopped suddenly, or is a doctor's guidance needed?

Regulatory guidelines describe that any change to the dose, including discontinuation, should generally be implemented slowly over a period of time, such as 7 to 14 days.

Any such adjustments are typically directed and supervised by a healthcare provider.

Q: Is Nifan a drug that is taken every day?

Nifan is described for use in conditions where consistent relief is often needed, meaning it may be taken on a daily schedule.

The frequency (once daily or multiple times daily) depends on the formulation and the prescribed regimen, and the total duration of use is determined by a healthcare provider.

Q: Why is Nifan recommended to be taken at a certain time of day?

The recommendation to take certain formulations, such as Extended-Release tablets, on an empty stomach is a regulatory instruction.

This is based on studies showing that food can alter the way the drug is absorbed. Following these timing instructions helps maintain the intended concentration of the medicine in the body.

Q: Can people with kidney problems use Nifan, based on official warnings?

Official regulatory warnings specify that Nifan is contraindicated (should not be used) in patients with severe renal (kidney) failure.

For people with milder kidney impairment, its use requires caution and often involves monitoring as determined by a healthcare provider, consistent with the risks outlined in official warnings.

Q: How does the FDA classify the safety of Nifan?

Regulatory agencies classify Nifan as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), a class associated with the potential for serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal adverse events.

It is also classified as contraindicated during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Q: Why is it important to check for interactions with Nifan?

Checking interactions is critical because Nifan is officially documented to interfere with other medicines in two key ways.

It can increase the risk of serious events, like bleeding when taken with anticoagulants, and it can also reduce the effectiveness of other medicines, such as blood pressure medications.

Q: Is Nifan approved in countries outside of [Example country, e.g., the US]?

The active ingredient in Nifan is recognized by major international regulatory bodies, such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

This indicates that the drug is approved, monitored, and prescribed in various countries worldwide under official governmental oversight.

Q: Is it common for people to take Nifan for many years?

Official guidance, which is designed to minimize risk, typically recommends using the lowest effective dose of Nifan for the shortest necessary duration.

This recommendation reflects the limited long-term safety data available, and prolonged, continuous use is generally not emphasized for symptomatic relief.

Q: Does Nifan affect the ability to drive or operate machinery?

Official product labeling lists side effects such as dizziness and headache as common adverse reactions.

If these effects are experienced, official regulatory information is consistent with the need for caution before driving or operating machinery.

Q: How long does Nifan stay in the body after the last dose?

Studies document a pharmaceutical measurement called the elimination half-life for Nifan's active ingredient.

This half-life, which is the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body, is approximately two to two and a half hours.

Q: Is it true that Nifan has a Black Box Warning?

Yes, as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), the official prescribing information includes a Boxed Warning (the most serious warning required by the FDA).

This warning highlights the potential for serious adverse events affecting the cardiovascular system (like heart attack or stroke) and the gastrointestinal system (like bleeding or ulcers).

Q: Is there a risk of dependency or addiction with Nifan?

Official regulatory documents include specific sections on drug abuse and dependence.

According to this information, Nifan is not associated with a known risk of dependence, abuse, or addiction.

Q: What is the shelf life or typical expiration time for Nifan?

The shelf life and specific expiration date are determined by the manufacturer based on regulatory stability studies and are printed on the product packaging.

The expiration date is located on the product packaging.

Q: What kind of monitoring (e.g., blood tests) might be needed while on Nifan?

Official documents advise that periodic monitoring is often considered, especially for patients on long-term treatment.

This monitoring may include checking blood pressure and various laboratory tests, such as those that assess kidney or liver function.

How should Nifan be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Nifan

The storage and disposal requirements for Nifan (Niflumic Acid) are officially defined to maintain its chemical integrity and ensure safety.

Official Storage Conditions

Requirement Statement
Temperature Store at Room Temperature (20 C to 25 C).
Protection Keep in the original container, tightly closed, and protect from light and moisture.
Child Safety Store the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Expired or unused Nifan must be disposed of in accordance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations for pharmaceutical waste. Do not discard the product into household wastewater or general trash without following regulatory instructions, such as using an approved drug take-back program. This ensures proper handling and environmental protection.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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