Naftidrofuryl Oxalate
Indications
Naftidrofuryl oxalate is used to treat peripheral vascular disorders (blood circulation problems outside the brain and heart). It is used to treat the following symptoms of these disorders:
- Intermittent claudication
- Cramps in legs at night
- Severe pain in legs while resting (rest pain)
- Pale or blue fngers or toes which get worse when it is cold
- Numbness, tingling or burning feelings in fngers or toes (Raynaud’s syndrome or acrocyanosis)
- Open sores on the legs or feet (trophic ulcers)
- Poor circulation caused by diabetes (diabetic arteriopathy)
- To treat gangrene
Pharmacology
Naftidrofuryl oxalate possesses a 5HT2-blocking activity and counteracts both the vasoconstrictor effect and the effect promoting platelet aggregation due to serotonin. Naftidrofuryl oxalate has a direct effect on intracellular metabolism. Thus it increases ATP level, decreases lactic acid level in ischemic conditions and enhances the cellular oxidative capacity. Also, Naftidrofuryl oxalate is a powerful spasmolytic agent.
Dosage & Administration
One or two Naftidrofuryl oxalate capsules three times daily during meals for a minimum of three months or at the discretion of the physician.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. Patients with a history of hyperoxaluria or recurrent calcium-containing kidney stones.
Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal disorders (uncommon): Diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and epigastric pain.
- Renal and urinary disorders (very rare): Calcium oxalate kidney stones.
- Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders (uncommon): Skin rash.
- Hepatobiliary disorders (rare): Liver damage.
Pregnancy & Lactation
In the absence of any relevant clinical data, the use of Naftidrofuryl Oxalate is not advisable during pregnancy. In the absence of specific data concerning the excretion of the drug in human milk, Naftidrofuryl Oxalate should not be used by breastfeeding women.
Precautions & Warnings
The administration of Naftidrofuryl Oxalate may modify the composition of the urine, promoting the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. The administration of Naftidrofuryl Oxalate without liquid before going to bed may cause local oesophagitis. Therefore, it is essential to always take the capsule with a sufficient amount of water. Cases of liver damage have been reported.
Overdose Effects
Depression of cardiac conduction and convulsions may occur.
Therapeutic Class
5-HT Agonists
Storage Conditions
Store below 25°C. Protect from light & moisture. Keep the medicine out of reach of children.
