Nefopam - Oral

Nefopam is used to help relieve sudden, short- or long-term pain such as dental pain, muscle and joint pain, pain after an injury or operation, or pain caused by cancer.

Take Nefopam exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

The dose of Nefopam will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of your treatment depending on the type and severity of your condition.

You may stop taking this medicine when you have no more pain.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

Alert your doctor if you have a history of epilepsy (fits or seizures) as Nefopam may not be suitable for you.

Do not take Nefopam if you are currently taking a medicine that is used to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• heart disease or blood vessel problems
• inability to completely empty the bladder when urinating
• angle-closure glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
• kidney disease
• liver disease

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Nefopam to the elderly. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Avoid long-term use of any painkillers.

If you are going to have certain laboratory tests (e.g. screening tests for certain medicines), inform your doctor that you are taking this medicine.

For as long as you are taking this medicine, you may need to have regular tests to check your liver or kidney function. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.

Nefopam may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

Your urine may look slightly pinkish in colour. This is normal while you are being treated with this medicine. This is harmless, do not be alarmed.

Other side effects include any of the following: headache, dry mouth, diarrhoea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty sleeping, nervousness, confusion, shakiness, and sweating.

Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:

• difficulty passing urine
• changes in eyesight
• rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes, mouth, or throat

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Do not take Nefopam if you are currently taking a medicine that is used to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

• other medicines for depression e.g. amitriptyline, imipramine
• medicines that cause drowsiness or affect your concentration

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Nefopam.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol. Alcohol intake may worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Nefopam.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.