Nafodil 100

Indications

Naftidrofuryl oxalate is used to improve symptoms of poor blood flow in the legs (peripheral arterial disease), especially intermittent claudication: cramping pain in the calves or thighs that comes on when walking and eases with rest. In some countries it is also used for certain problems caused by reduced blood flow to the brain in older people.

How It Works

Naftidrofuryl blocks a type of serotonin receptor (5-HT2) on blood vessels and blood platelets, which helps vessels stay relaxed and reduces platelet clumping. It also helps muscle and nerve cells use oxygen and glucose more efficiently when blood supply is low. Together these effects can increase the distance a person can walk before leg pain starts.

Dosage and Administration

Take as prescribed by your doctor. The usual adult dose is 100 mg to 200 mg three times a day. Swallow the capsule or tablet whole with a full glass of water, during or just after a meal, while sitting or standing upright. Do not lie down straight after a dose, because the medicine can irritate the food pipe if it gets stuck. Improvement in walking distance is usually checked after about 3 months; if there is no benefit the doctor may stop it.

Interactions

• Medicines that slow the heart rate or affect heart rhythm, such as beta blockers or Digoxin, should be used with care.
• Other medicines that relax blood vessels or lower blood pressure may add to its effects.
• Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including over-the-counter and herbal products.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Naftidrofuryl or any ingredient.
• High levels of oxalate in the urine (hyperoxaluria) or repeated calcium oxalate kidney stones.
• Severe heart failure, heart block or severe slow heartbeat (for some products).

Side Effects

Common side effects include nausea, stomach pain, indigestion, diarrhoea and skin rash. Rarely it can cause irritation or ulcers of the food pipe, liver problems or kidney stones.

Get urgent medical help if you have pain on swallowing or chest pain after taking a dose, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe pain in the side or back, blood in the urine, a severe rash, or swelling of the face and difficulty breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is not enough information on the safety of Naftidrofuryl in pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is usually avoided unless the doctor decides it is clearly needed.

Precautions and Warnings

• Always take with plenty of water and stay upright for a while after each dose.
• Drink enough fluids each day to lower the risk of kidney stones.
• Stopping smoking, walking exercise and control of blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes are essential parts of treatment.
• Use with care in liver or kidney disease.

Overdose

An overdose may cause heart rhythm problems and seizures (fits). Get emergency medical help straight away and take the pack with you.

Therapeutic Class

Peripheral vasodilator, serotonin (5-HT2) receptor antagonist.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.