IPC Issues Alert Against Painkiller Meftal For Adverse Reaction

The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a drug safety alert for healthcare professionals and patients concerning the commonly used pain killer mefenamic acid, commonly available under Meftal.

Mefenamic acid is not available over the counter and requires a prescription, the Indian population extensively uses it for various purposes, including alleviating menstrual pains, headaches, and muscle and joint pain.

The Pharmacovigilance Program of India (PvPI), which is responsible for monitoring and gathering information on adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and adverse events associated with pharmaceutical products, has conducted a 'preliminary analysis.' This analysis reveals that mefenamic acid can lead to drug reactions causing eosinophilia and systemic symptoms, known as DRESS syndrome.

What is DRESS syndrome?

DRESS syndrome, which stands for Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms, is a severe and potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction to certain medications. Specific medications often trigger this syndrome.

Side effects of this DRESS syndrome?

The symptoms/ side effects of this DRESS syndrome are Skin Rash, Internal Organ Involvement, Blood Abnormalities, Systemic Symptoms and Fever.