Nintedanib is used to manage several types of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs), including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), chronic fibrosing ILDs with a progressive phenotype, and systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD). Here are the dosing instructions, common side effects, and detailed dosage information:

Dosing Instructions for Nintedanib

-Standard Dosage: The usual recommended dose of nintedanib is 150 mg, taken orally twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart.
– With Food: It should be taken with food to help minimize potential gastrointestinal side effects.
– Swallow Whole: Capsules should be swallowed whole with liquid. Do not chew, crush, or open them.
– Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take your next dose at your regular time. Do not take two doses at one time to make up for the missed dose.
– Maximum Dosage: Do not exceed a total of 300 mg of nintedanib in a single day.
– Dose Adjustments: Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose or temporarily stop treatment if you experience side effects or have changes in liver test results.

Common Side Effects of Nintedanib

Nintedanib can cause several side effects, some of which may require medical attention. The most common side effects include:

– Diarrhea
– Nausea
– Stomach pain
– Vomiting
– Liver problems
– Decreased appetite
– Headache
– Weight loss
– High blood pressure

Serious Side Effects

Be aware of serious side effects, which necessitate immediate medical attention:

– Liver problems: Symptoms such as yellowing of your skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain, bleeding or bruising more easily than normal, feeling tired, or loss of appetite.
– Gastrointestinal perforation: Signs include severe stomach or abdominal pain and swelling.
– Bleeding problems: Unusual bleeding, bruising, or wounds that do not heal.
– Heart attack and stroke: Symptoms include chest pain, pain in your arms, back, neck, or jaw, shortness of breath, numbness or weakness on one side of your body, trouble talking, headache, or dizziness.
– Proteinuria: Signs may include foamy urine, swelling, or sudden weight gain.

Detailed Dosage Information

– Initial Dosage: 150 mg twice daily with food.
– Dose Adjustments for Side Effects: Depending on the severity of side effects, your healthcare provider may recommend reducing the dose to 100 mg twice daily. In some cases, temporary discontinuation or complete cessation of nintedanib may be necessary.
– Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function tests is recommended before starting treatment and periodically throughout treatment.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely when taking nintedanib, and to report any side effects or concerns promptly for appropriate management.