Why is it not recommended to take nintedanib?

Nintedanib (Nintedanib) has shown certain efficacy in the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and slowed the progression of the disease. However, in some cases, doctors may not recommend the use of this drug. This is mainly related to the following aspects.

The side effects of nintedanib are an important consideration. Clinical studies have shown that patients using nintedanib often experience adverse reactions such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and abnormal liver function. These side effects may have a significant impact on the patient's quality of life, especially diarrhea, which may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, and may even require hospitalization in severe cases. Therefore, doctors may be more cautious in evaluating the use of this drug in patients who are sensitive to the drug's side effects or have other underlying medical conditions.

The cost of nintedanib is also a factor that cannot be ignored. As a biological agent, the cost of treatment with nintedanib is relatively high, and long-term use may impose a financial burden on patients. The original nintedanib drug has been launched in China. Common packaging specifications include 100 mg 30 pills/box and 150 mg 30 pills/box, with a price of about more than 4,000 yuan. In some countries and regions, medical insurance policies may not cover such drugs, causing patients to pay out of pocket, further increasing the burden of using nintedanib.

Some patients may be allergic to drug ingredients or have other contraindications that prevent safe use. For patients with impaired hepatic function, the metabolism of nintedanib may be affected, and use of the drug in this case may increase the burden on the liver and bring potential dangers. Therefore, for some patients with limited financial conditions, doctors may recommend other treatment options.

Reference materials:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nintedanib