Nintedanib is a medication prescribed for progressive lung conditions, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and chronic fibrosing interstitial lung diseases. It works by targeting pathways involved in lung scarring, aiming to slow disease progression. Like all medications, nintedanib can cause side effects, and understanding these potential effects is helpful for patients and caregivers.
Common Manifestations
Gastrointestinal side effects are common with nintedanib. Diarrhea is common, affecting up to 76% of patients. Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain are also common. These can lead to decreased appetite and weight loss.
Liver enzyme elevations can also occur. These elevations are detected through routine blood tests. While often asymptomatic, sustained or significant increases in liver enzymes may suggest liver irritation. Monitoring these levels ensures the medication is tolerated.
Headaches and fatigue are other common effects. These symptoms are manageable and do not lead to discontinuation of the medication. High blood pressure has also been reported as a common side effect.
Serious Concerns
Nintedanib can lead to severe health concerns requiring prompt medical attention. Serious liver problems, beyond enzyme elevations, can manifest as yellowing skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, severe upper stomach pain, and easy bruising or bleeding. These symptoms indicate a more serious liver issue.
Nintedanib can also increase bleeding risk. Bleeding can range from nosebleeds to gastrointestinal bleeding, presenting as black, tarry stools or blood in vomit. Unusual bruising or any bleeding that is difficult to stop should be reported promptly.
Blood Clots
Blood clots are another serious concern, potentially leading to heart attack or stroke. Heart attack symptoms include chest pain, discomfort radiating to arms, jaw, back, or neck, sweating, and trouble breathing. Signs of a stroke can involve sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, difficulty talking, or sudden vision changes.
Gastrointestinal Perforation
Gastrointestinal perforation, a tear in the stomach or intestinal wall, is a rare but serious complication. It causes severe, persistent stomach pain, possibly with fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting.
Proteinuria
Proteinuria, or increased protein in the urine, may also develop. It can manifest as cloudy urine, swelling in hands, arms, legs, or feet, or unexplained weight gain.
Guidance and Urgent Care
Managing common side effects involves practical adjustments and close communication with your healthcare provider. For diarrhea, maintaining hydration is important, and your doctor might suggest anti-diarrheal medications. Taking nintedanib with food can help reduce nausea and vomiting; avoiding fatty or spicy foods may also be beneficial.
Regular blood tests are standard to check liver function and identify potential issues early. Your doctor may adjust the dose or temporarily interrupt treatment if side effects are too bothersome or laboratory results show significant changes. This individualized approach helps manage side effects while continuing therapy.
Certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if you experience:
- Severe or persistent diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting that does not improve.
- Any signs of liver problems, such as yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe upper abdominal pain.
- Unexplained bleeding.
- Severe stomach pain.
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden weakness or numbness.
Open communication with your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms is important for safe and effective treatment.