Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.

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Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is the thickening and hardening of your skin, mostly on your arms and legs. Your muscles, joints, organs, and the tissue that covers your brain may also be affected. It is a condition normally found in people with kidney disease.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Medicines:

• Prescription pain medicine may be given. Ask your healthcare provider how to safely take this medicine.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell him if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Go to the pain clinic:

Healthcare providers at a pain clinic can help you learn new ways to control your pain.

Go to physical therapy:

A physical therapist teaches you exercises to help improve movement and strength. Physical therapy can help loosen your tight skin and prevent contractures. A contracture is when your skin or muscles tighten, causing problems with how you move your joints.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Ofev
• Esbriet
• Actimmune
• pirfenidone
• nintedanib

Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• Your arms or legs are swollen, or you have trouble moving them.
• Your skin becomes red or painful.
• You pain is worse, even after you take medicine.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Return to the emergency department if:

• You have severe pain.
• You suddenly have trouble breathing.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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