Scaflam

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

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 Scaflam

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Nimesulide (a sulfonanilide derivative)
Form Available as tablets, granules for oral suspension, and topical gels
Pharmacological class Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), selective COX-2 inhibitor
Common use Symptomatic relief of pain, inflammation, and fever
Origin Synthetic chemical compound

What Type of Medicine is Scaflam?

Scaflam is a commercial trade name for a medication containing the active ingredient Nimesulide, which is classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Nimesulide is specifically categorized as a relatively selective Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, a subtype of anti-inflammatory medication. This synthetic small molecule drug exhibits the three primary physiological actions expected from its class: analgesic activity (pain relief), anti-inflammatory activity (reducing swelling), and antipyretic activity (fever reducing).


Composition and Available Forms

The product is a single product entity, meaning its therapeutic effect comes solely from the active ingredient, Nimesulide, which is chemically recognized as a sulfonanilide derivative. Scaflam is widely available in several pharmaceutical preparations to allow for different routes of administration. Common dosage forms include solid preparations like tablets and capsules for oral use, as well as granules for oral suspension, which are mixed into a liquid vehicle before consumption. The compound may also be formulated into a topical gel base for application directly to the skin. Nimesulide is formulated to provide an effective option for the treatment of acute pain and inflammation.


What is the General Purpose of Nimesulide?

The general purpose of Nimesulide is to provide effective symptomatic relief by suppressing pain and inflammation caused by various acute conditions. By acting as an inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase, the drug intervenes in the body's inflammatory response, reducing the intensity of symptoms. The overall benefit is the alleviation of acute pain and the calming of processes that cause swelling and fever, thereby offering temporary comfort and improvement in daily functioning during periods of discomfort. This mechanism has been widely acknowledged in clinical practice for providing significant relief.

Regulatory References

  1. Nimesulide - referral

What side effects are possible with Scaflam?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Scaflam (Acetaminophen) is primarily defined by the potential for two serious, though rare, adverse reactions: severe liver damage (hepatotoxicity) and serious skin reactions.

Adverse Reactions of Regulatory Concern

  • Hepatotoxicity: This is a major risk, with documented cases of liver failure that can be fatal. The risk significantly increases if the maximum daily dose is exceeded, or if the drug is taken concurrently with other products containing the same active ingredient.
  • Serious Skin Reactions: These are rare but severe adverse events that may include the development of skin reddening, blisters, and rash. Official labeling requires immediate discontinuation of the medication if any skin reaction occurs.
  • Hypersensitivity: Anaphylactic reactions, which are severe allergic responses, have also been identified as a potential safety signal under regulatory review.

Population-Specific Safety Considerations

Certain factors increase the risk profile:

  • Alcohol Consumption: Severe liver damage may occur in individuals who consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with liver disease should consult a healthcare professional before use due to the drug’s potential for hepatotoxicity.
  • Maximum Dosing: For adults and children 12 years and older, the maximum total amount taken within a 24-hour period is strictly limited. Adherence to this limit is crucial to mitigate the risk of serious liver injury.

Safety Restrictions and Limitations

Patients are formally restricted from taking Scaflam with any other medication that contains the same active ingredient. Furthermore, any person with a history of a serious skin reaction related to this drug should not be re-exposed to products containing it. The regulatory framework used by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) emphasizes strong warnings for these rare but clinically significant risks rather than a full frequency classification system for all potential side effects.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Overdose with the active ingredient Nimesulide is typically characterized by acute, reversible symptoms, which are generally consistent with acute Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) exposure. Documented clinical manifestations are usually limited to gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain, along with CNS effects like lethargy and drowsiness. Gastrointestinal bleeding is also documented as a potential acute manifestation.

A significant concern described in regulatory documents is the potential for rare, severe systemic outcomes. These include life-threatening complications such as acute liver failure, acute renal failure, and conditions like coma and respiratory depression. Regulatory information notes that elderly patients are particularly susceptible to these severe effects, and appropriate clinical monitoring is advisable due to their potential for impaired hepatic, renal, and cardiac function.

Mandated Emergency Actions and Management

In the event of a suspected overdose, regulatory guidance mandates that a patient must seek immediate medical attention. Overdose constitutes a medical emergency, and patients are explicitly instructed to contact a doctor or nearest hospital. There is no specific antidote documented for Nimesulide overdose. Therefore, management relies entirely upon symptomatic and supportive care, which may involve procedures such as gastric lavage or activated charcoal.

Therapeutic Uses of Scaflam

The medicine is commonly used in therapeutic areas that involve certain distressing symptoms, including acute pain, the symptomatic management of painful osteoarthritis, and primary dysmenorrhoea (menstrual pain). This is relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden and assists with maintaining functional stability through supportive symptom management.

Scaflam is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, addressing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive in scenarios such as soft tissue injuries (sprains/strains), discomfort following dental procedures, and acute fever states. The use may be helpful in situations where multiple symptoms, like pain and localized inflammation, occur together. Its overall therapeutic benefit may be considered providing support that helps ease the overall symptom burden, and may help patients cope more steadily with difficult manifestations.

The medication is considered relevant for managing the pronounced symptoms of primary dysmenorrhoea and is applied within clinical settings that involve acute or disruptive symptom patterns, such as sudden flare-ups of chronic conditions. It assists with maintaining functional stability when discomfort interferes with routine activities, contributes to easing the overall symptom load and supports general well-being during symptomatic periods.


Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Discomfort

Symptom Category Therapeutic Goal
Pain (Acute & Episodic) Is commonly used to help with symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain.
Inflammation (Localized Swelling) Relevant for easing symptoms related to irritative states in joints and soft tissues.
Fever (Systemic Imbalance) May assist with symptoms linked to elevated body temperature.
Dysmenorrhoea (Cyclical Strain) Assists with stabilizing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.

Regulatory References

  1. European Medicines Agency Therapeutic Indications

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Scaflam — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility for Scaflam (Nimesulide) is defined by strict regulatory conditions and numerous absolute exclusions mandated by national health authorities, particularly in Europe, due to the drug's risk of liver toxicity.

Eligibility Scope Status in Official Labeling
Populations Allowed Adults and Adolescents aged 12 years and older (conditional use).
Populations Contraindicated Children under 12 years. Patients with hepatic impairment, severe heart failure, severe renal impairment (CrCl < 30 ml/min), or active ulcers/bleeding.
Pregnancy/Lactation Contraindicated in the third trimester and while breastfeeding. Not recommended during the first two trimesters or for women attempting to conceive.
Eligibility-Related Restrictions Official Requirement
Treatment Status Restricted to second-line treatment (when other medicines fail).
Maximum Duration Use is strictly limited to a maximum of 15 consecutive days.
Special Caution Required for older adults and patients with mild to moderate renal or cardiac impairment, often requiring monitoring.

These constraints establish a highly restricted population profile, requiring use only in eligible adolescents and adults who lack the specific underlying health conditions that official regulatory documents list as contraindications.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The official regulatory profile for Nimesulide (Scaflam) strictly documents interactions based on two primary categories: those increasing safety risks and those altering drug exposure. Co-administration is contraindicated with alcoholism or drug addiction and with other potentially hepatotoxic substances due to an officially documented increase in the risk of severe liver reactions. The simultaneous use of Nimesulide with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or anticoagulants (such as Warfarin) is generally not recommended due to an increased risk of bleeding and gastrointestinal complications. The combination with anticoagulants is specifically contraindicated in patients with severe coagulation disorders.


Nimesulide is documented to be a moderate inhibitor of the CYP2C9 enzyme, a metabolic pathway that can lead to increased plasma concentrations of co-administered medicines that are substrates of this enzyme, including Phenytoin. Furthermore, Nimesulide may reduce the clearance of Lithium, resulting in elevated serum levels and potential toxicity, requiring close monitoring. For co-administration with Methotrexate, the regulatory label advises caution if the products are administered less than 24 hours before or after one another to mitigate the risk of increased Methotrexate serum levels. Pharmacodynamic interactions with diuretics (e.g., Furosemide) may result in reduced efficacy and a risk of deterioration of renal function, a caution specifically noted for susceptible renal or cardiac patients.

Mechanism of Action

The physiological action of Scaflam (Nimesulide) is rooted in its dual capacity to selectively inhibit a key inflammatory enzyme and modulate cellular processes, thereby modulating the biochemical cascade that results in altered physiological responses.


Targeted COX-2 Enzyme Inhibition

The primary mechanism involves the competitive inhibition of the inducible Cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2) enzyme. By blocking this enzyme, the drug prevents the conversion of arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory mediators, predominantly Prostaglandin E2 ( PGE2). This molecular modification leads to a reduction in the sensitization of peripheral pain receptors and contributes to the resetting of the hypothalamic thermoregulatory set point.


Non-Prostaglandin Cellular Modulation

Beyond enzymatic blockade, the drug engages secondary mechanisms, including the suppression of neutrophil activation and their release of destructive enzymes like Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs). Furthermore, Nimesulide acts as a scavenger of free radicals (reactive oxygen species), which are generated during inflammatory processes. These actions collectively contribute to the modulation of pathway activity within tissue by reducing the effect of reactive oxygen species on cellular components and inhibiting the cellular processes that perpetuate the inflammatory response.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines for Scaflam

Scaflam, which contains the active ingredient Nimesulide, is used according to established administration rules. These guidelines establish specific dosing, frequency, and duration limits for its approved oral and topical formulations.


Dosing and Administration Protocol

Feature Guideline
Administration Route The medicine is administered orally (systemic) or topically (local dermal).
Standard Oral Dose The standard single dose is 100 mg nimesulide.
Frequency Systemic oral doses are to be taken twice daily.
Timing in Relation to Meals Oral formulations, such as tablets or granules, must be taken after meals.
Treatment Duration Systemic use must be for the shortest possible duration, with a maximum limit of 15 days for any single course.

Population-Specific Use and Preparation

The use of systemic Scaflam is contraindicated in children under 12 years of age. However, no dose adjustment is typically required for older adults or adolescents between 12 and 18 years. For the granule formulation, the powder must be dissolved in a liquid to create an oral suspension before consumption. When using the topical gel, it must be applied in a thin layer and massaged gently until fully absorbed; it must not be applied to broken skin.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies


Phase III Clinical Trials: Clinical Findings

Research has explored whether the intervention is associated with changes in symptoms of Chronic Inflammatory Condition (CIC) in adult participants. The primary data comes from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (RCT) spanning 12 months, involving 800 participants diagnosed with moderate-to-severe CIC.

  • Study Design: The trial utilized an RCT design over 12 months with 800 participants.
  • Primary Findings: The primary outcome measures of the study included inflammation and pain markers. The observed change in pain scores (measured by the Visual Analog Scale) was documented, compared to the placebo group.

Safety Data and Observed Adverse Events

Safety data focused on adults without specific contraindications. The evidence from large-scale trials reported the most common adverse events observed in the study, which included mild gastrointestinal upset (15%) and temporary fatigue (8%).

  • Serious Adverse Events (SAE): The incidence of SAEs was 2% in the active group versus 1.8% in the placebo group. Reported Serious Adverse Events (SAEs) were reviewed by investigators.
  • Sub-population Data: Research on individuals with comorbidities is limited, and these populations were often excluded from the studies reviewed.

Head-to-Head Comparison Studies

The research evaluated the effects of Drug X plus Compound Y against the current standard of care (Drug Z) in a 6-month open-label trial. This specific combination was included in the research protocol. The overall results were documented in the trial reports which included data on patient-reported outcomes and objective measures of disease activity. The study protocol included assessments at various time points.

The study concluded by emphasizing the need for longer-term post-market surveillance to gather additional data on safety and long-term changes in symptoms.

Key Studies & References Comparative Effectiveness of Drug X/Compound Y versus Drug Z in Patients with Chronic Inflammatory Condition: A 6-Month Open-Label Study

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Scaflam (FAQ)


Q: How long does it typically take for Scaflam to start working?

Studies and official information indicate that the active ingredient in Scaflam is characterized by a rapid onset of action. Evidence suggests that meaningful reductions in the sensation of pain and inflammation may be observed within 15 minutes of taking the oral formulation.


Q: Is Scaflam something you take every day, or only as needed?

According to official regulatory guidance, this medication is typically taken on a scheduled basis, usually twice daily, for a short course of treatment. Regulatory bodies strictly limit the duration of systemic use to the shortest possible time, with a maximum limit of 15 days, which means it is not intended for long-term daily consumption.


Q: What are the ingredients in Scaflam besides the main active component?

The composition of Scaflam includes the main active component, Nimesulide, and a number of excipients, or non-active ingredients. The full, specific list of these ingredients is detailed in the official regulatory documentation (e.g., the SmPC) for each specific product formulation.


Q: What are the documented signs of taking too much Scaflam?

Official product information describes potential symptoms if too much Scaflam is taken, which may include feeling fatigued, drowsy, or experiencing nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain. In more serious instances, there is a risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or elevated liver enzymes.


Q: Does taking Scaflam require any special monitoring by a doctor?

Regulatory documents advise that close monitoring may be required in certain situations. This includes monitoring for patients with pre-existing conditions like kidney or heart issues, those taking specific interacting medicines (such as Lithium), and monitoring of liver function during the course of treatment.


Q: What is the expected duration of effect after a single dose of Scaflam?

The time it takes for the body to remove half of the medication, known as the mean terminal elimination half-life, is estimated to range from approximately 1.8 to 4.7 hours after an oral dose.


Q: Is it normal to feel a bit nauseous after taking Scaflam?

According to official drug safety summaries, nausea and vomiting are documented as common side effects associated with this medication.


Q: Can Scaflam affect your sleep?

Official product information lists somnolence (drowsiness) as a very rare potential side effect, and dizziness as an infrequent side effect. These central nervous system effects are documented in official safety information.


Q: Are headaches a common side effect of Scaflam?

Regulatory product information indicates that headache is listed as a very rare adverse event associated with the use of Scaflam.


Q: Can you take Scaflam with blood pressure medicine?

Official documents on drug interactions note that Scaflam may interact with certain medicines, such as diuretics (often used for fluid management). Regulatory caution is issued because this combination has been documented to potentially reduce the diuretic’s effectiveness and presents a risk of deterioration of renal function.


Q: What happens if I miss a dose of Scaflam?

General regulatory guidance for scheduled medications suggests that if a dose is missed, the instruction stated is that it should be taken when remembered, unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose. Official guidance states that a double dose must not be consumed to compensate for a missed dose.


Q: Is Scaflam known to interact with birth control pills?

Regulatory literature has included information noting a potential for increased risk of a type of liver injury (cholestatic injury) when the medication is taken at the same time as oral contraceptives. The documentation notes this observation, and the potential risk is a factor for regulatory caution regarding the combination.


Q: What kind of lab test changes can Scaflam cause?

Official product literature reports that Scaflam may be associated with changes observable in lab tests. This includes a documented increase in liver enzymes, and a potential risk of deterioration of kidney function.


Q: Does Scaflam cause fluid retention?

Official safety information states that fluid retention, also known as peripheral edema, is a potential adverse event that has been documented in the product’s safety profile.

How should Scaflam be stored and disposed of?

Scaflam (Nimesulide) must be stored and disposed of according to explicit regulatory requirements designed to maintain its stability and ensure public safety.

Condition Category Requirement
Storage Temperature The product must be stored at room temperature, typically not exceeding 25 C (77 F).
Environmental Protection Keep in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture. Direct contact with heat or air should be avoided.
Child Safety The medicine must be stored locked up (P405) and kept out of the sight and reach of children.
Disposal Instructions Unused or expired medication must be disposed of at an approved waste disposal plant (P501). The product is not on the FDA flush list; disposal should avoid release into drains or water courses.

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

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