India Bans High-dose Nimesulide: Severe health Risks Behind the Decision

The Indian government has banned nimesulide in doses above 100 mg due to health risks linked to its use. Nimesulide is a prescription Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug, or NSAID, used for acute pain, osteoarthritis, and period pain, working by blocking pain-causing chemicals and reducing inflammation. However, it carries several risks. News reports say the decision follows worries that the drug can lead to dangerous liver issues and require careful monitoring, particularly in children and those with existing conditions like ulcers, heart disease, or liver/kidney problems. A notification to this effect was issued by the Union Health Ministry on December 29 after a recommendation by an expert committee that included the Indian Council of Medical

Research (ICMR). The move was subsequently endorsed by an advisory panel under the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). In January, the Centre had also banned all veterinary formulations of nimesulide following advice from a CDSCO panel. According to experts, the decision was taken due to the rapid decline of vulture populations in India. The panel warned that nimesulide, widely used as a painkiller for cattle, remained one of the most significant existing threats to vultures. The assessment was based on a safety-testing report on vultures conducted jointly by the Bombay Natural History Society and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Indian Veterinary Research Institute. The study found that vultures treated with nimesulide died within 24 hours of being administered the drug.

Tight regulations

Nimesulide was banned for children below 12 years of age in 2011 but was allowed for older people, despite persistent concerns. In March 2023, the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission, the country’s apex drug standards body, warned that nimesulide could cause fixed drug eruptions – recurrent skin rashes appearing at the same site on the body.

What are the uses of nimesulide?

General body pain and fever

It is beneficial in treating normal body pain and fever, as it blocks pain signals and reduces inflammation. The medicine is used for headache, muscle pain, and fever and provides instant relief, alleviates symptoms, and provides comfort.

Relief from arthritis pain

The medicine also inhibits the chemical action responsible for inflammation and eases joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Treats musculoskeletal disorders

Nimesulide reduces inflammation and lowers fever. It provides relief from swelling, improves joint and muscle movement, and helps patients feel more comfortable during daily activities and physical tasks.

Alleviates toothache

It is used to treat toothache, as the medicine provides instant relief by reducing pain, inflammation, and swelling. It alleviates discomfort around the affected tooth, allowing you to eat, drink, and speak comfortably. This effective medication improves oral pain and enhances daily activities without distress.

Relieve menstrual pain

It quickly reduces cramps, lowers inflammation, and eases discomfort during periods. This effective medicine helps you stay comfortable and active, allowing you to carry on with your daily tasks without suffering from severe period pain.