SRINAGAR: The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has released a drug safety alert cautioning healthcare professionals and patients to monitor adverse reactions related to the painkiller Meftal, commonly used for menstrual cramps and rheumatoid arthritis.
The painkiller, containing mefenamic acid, is prescribed for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhoea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and dental pain.
The alert, issued on November 30, disclosed a preliminary analysis of adverse drug reactions from the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) database, revealing instances of drug reactions linked to eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome.
According to the alert, healthcare professionals and patients are advised to closely monitor the potential adverse drug reaction (ADR) associated with the use of the suspected drug.
In the event of encountering such a reaction, individuals are urged to report the matter to the national coordination centre of the PvPI under the commission. This can be done by filling out a form on the website www.ipc.gov.in or through the android mobile app ADR PvPI and PvPI Helpline No. 1800-180-3024.
The IPC, an autonomous institution under the Ministry of Health, establishes standards for all drugs manufactured, sold, and consumed in India.