Nifurtimox
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
None
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Nifurtimox
Summary
Nifurtimox is used to treat Chagas disease, also known as American Trypanosomiasis. This disease is caused by a parasite and primarily affects children from birth to less than 18 years of age.
Nifurtimox works by producing toxic intermediate metabolites and reactive oxygen species that damage the DNA of the parasite causing Chagas disease. This leads to the death of both intracellular and extracellular forms of the parasite, helping to clear the infection from the body.
Nifurtimox is taken three times a day with food. The dosage is based on body weight. For children weighing 41 kg or more, the total daily dose is 8 to 10 mg/kg. For those weighing less than 41 kg, the dose is 10 to 20 mg/kg.
Common side effects of Nifurtimox include vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, decreased appetite, nausea, and fever. Serious adverse effects can include hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, hives, and swelling of the throat and face.
Avoid alcohol during treatment with Nifurtimox as it can increase side effects. It is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to nifurtimox or its ingredients. Pregnant women should avoid it due to potential fetal harm. Patients with a history of brain injury, seizures, or psychiatric conditions should use it under close supervision.
Indications and Purpose
How does Nifurtimox work?
Nifurtimox works by producing toxic intermediate metabolites and reactive oxygen species that damage the DNA of the parasite causing Chagas disease. This leads to the death of both intracellular and extracellular forms of the parasite, helping to clear the infection from the body.
Is Nifurtimox effective?
Nifurtimox is effective in treating Chagas disease in pediatric patients, as demonstrated in clinical trials. In one study, patients treated with Nifurtimox showed a significant serological response, with a 32% response rate in the 60-day treatment group compared to 19% in the 30-day group. The drug is active against all stages of the parasite causing Chagas disease, supporting its effectiveness.
What is Nifurtimox?
Nifurtimox is used to treat Chagas disease in children from birth to 18 years old. It belongs to a class of medications called antiprotozoals and works by killing the parasite that causes the disease. The drug is effective against all stages of the parasite, helping to clear the infection from the body.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Nifurtimox?
The typical duration of use for Nifurtimox is 60 days. It is important to complete the full course of treatment to prevent recurrence of the infection.
How do I dispose of Nifurtimox?
If you can, bring unused medicines to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so they don't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag and throw it away.
How do I take Nifurtimox?
Nifurtimox should be taken three times a day with food to enhance absorption and reduce stomach upset. There are no specific food restrictions mentioned, but it is important to avoid alcohol during treatment. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage and administration.
How long does it take for Nifurtimox to start working?
Nifurtimox starts working within a few days, but it may take several weeks to achieve its full therapeutic effect. Individual factors like age, weight, and overall health can affect how quickly it works. It's important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions and complete the full course of treatment to ensure the best results.
How should I store Nifurtimox?
Store Nifurtimox at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep it in the original bottle with a child-resistant cap and do not remove the desiccant packet, which helps keep the medicine dry. Ensure the bottle is tightly closed and protected from moisture. Keep it out of reach of children.
What is the usual dose of Nifurtimox?
Nifurtimox is primarily used for children from birth to less than 18 years of age. The dosage is based on body weight. For children weighing 41 kg or more, the total daily dose is 8 to 10 mg/kg. For those weighing less than 41 kg, the dose is 10 to 20 mg/kg. It is taken three times a day with food. There is no specified dosage for adults in the provided content.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Nifurtimox with other prescription drugs?
Nifurtimox can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness. It's important to inform your doctor about all medicines you're taking. Some drugs, like those affecting the liver, may require dose adjustments or monitoring. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice to avoid potential interactions and ensure safe treatment.
Can Nifurtimox be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Nifurtimox can pass into breast milk and may harm a breastfeeding baby. Nursing mothers should monitor their infants for symptoms like vomiting, rash, decreased appetite, fever, and irritability. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the best way to feed your baby during treatment with Nifurtimox.
Can Nifurtimox be taken safely while pregnant?
Nifurtimox can cause fetal harm and is not recommended during pregnancy. Females of reproductive potential should take a pregnancy test before starting treatment and use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months after the last dose. There is evidence from animal studies showing fetal malformations and other adverse effects, but human data is limited.
Does Nifurtimox have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted or harmful effects caused by a medicine. Nifurtimox can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, which are common. Less common but serious effects include nerve problems, such as tingling or numbness, and mood changes. If you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or severe rash, seek medical help immediately. Always report new symptoms to your doctor and consult them before stopping the medicine.
Does Nifurtimox have any safety warnings?
Nifurtimox comes with safety warnings. It can cause nerve problems, so watch for tingling or numbness. Mood changes are possible, so monitor for depression or anxiety. Liver issues can occur, so look out for yellowing skin or eyes. If you notice these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Regular check-ups are important to catch any issues early. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any new symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Nifurtimox?
Drinking alcohol while taking Nifurtimox is contraindicated. Alcohol consumption can increase the incidence and severity of undesirable effects similar to other nitrofurans and nitroheterocyclic compounds. Therefore, it is advised to avoid alcohol during treatment with Nifurtimox to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Nifurtimox?
Nifurtimox may cause muscle weakness or tremors, which could potentially limit the ability to exercise. If you experience these symptoms, it is advised not to drive, cycle, or operate machinery until you know how the medication affects you. Consult your doctor for personalized advice on exercising while taking Nifurtimox.
Is it safe to stop Nifurtimox?
Nifurtimox is used for treating temporary or acute conditions, such as infections. Stopping it abruptly can lead to the infection not being fully treated, which might cause symptoms to return or worsen. There are no known withdrawal symptoms, but it's crucial to complete the prescribed course. Always consult your doctor before stopping Nifurtimox to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your situation.
Is Nifurtimox addictive?
Nifurtimox is not known to be addictive. It does not have habit-forming potential, so there's no risk of physical or psychological dependence. You can take it as prescribed without worrying about addiction. Always follow your doctor's instructions and complete the full course of treatment to ensure the best results.
Is Nifurtimox safe for the elderly?
Nifurtimox can be used by the elderly, but with caution. Older adults may experience more side effects, such as dizziness or nerve problems, compared to younger individuals. It's important for elderly patients to be closely monitored by their healthcare provider when starting Nifurtimox. Regular check-ups can help manage any potential risks and ensure the medicine is working effectively.
What are the most common side effects of Nifurtimox?
A side effect is an unwanted reaction to a medicine. Common side effects of Nifurtimox include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, and dizziness. These effects are often temporary and may not be directly related to the medicine. It's important to talk to your doctor if you experience new symptoms. Never stop taking a medicine without consulting your healthcare provider, as they can help manage side effects.
Who should avoid taking Nifurtimox?
Key warnings for Nifurtimox include avoiding alcohol during treatment, as it can increase side effects. It is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to nifurtimox or its ingredients. Pregnant women should avoid it due to potential fetal harm. Patients with a history of brain injury, seizures, or psychiatric conditions should use it under close supervision. It may also cause decreased appetite and weight loss.
