A concerning trend has emerged in India regarding the use of the painkiller Nimesulide. Despite being banned for use in children under 12 years of age in 2011, the drug continues to be reported as causing side effects, raising concerns about its continued prescription. This information comes from the Pharmacovigilance Program of India (PvPI), which monitors and collects information on adverse drug reactions.
The PvPI has received reports of Nimesulide-induced adverse drug reactions even after the ban, prompting the Indian Pharmacopeia Commission (IPC), which runs the PvPI program, to take action. The IPC has decided to start a ‘sensitisation’ campaign targeting healthcare professionals and consumers, urging them to refrain from prescribing or using Nimesulide in children under 12 years of age.
The ban on Nimesulide in children was implemented due to its potential hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity), with children being considered more susceptible to this risk. Scientific evidence, including a 2003 research paper published in the BMJ journal, has consistently highlighted the dangers of Nimesulide in children, advocating for safer alternatives.
The ongoing reports of adverse drug reactions despite the ban underscore the importance of stringent enforcement and awareness campaigns. The IPC’s call to sensitize healthcare professionals is crucial to ensure that the ban is adhered to and the safety of children is prioritized.
The issue of Nimesulide highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring responsible drug use, especially in vulnerable populations like children. It underscores the need for continuous monitoring, education, and regulatory measures to protect public health.
