New Delhi: The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) issued a cautionary alert on Thursday concerning the widely used painkiller Meftal. The commission urged individuals to consult a doctor before using the drug, emphasizing that Meftal contains mefenamic acid, which has the potential to induce adverse reactions such as DRESS syndrome. This alert is significant given Meftal's increasing popularity as a common pain reliever in the country.

DRESS syndrome, a severe allergic reaction linked to certain medications, manifests with symptoms like skin rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy. These symptoms may surface between two and eight weeks after taking the drug.

The advisory, directed at healthcare professionals, patients, and consumers, recommends vigilant monitoring for possible adverse drug reactions associated with Meftal use. The Commission's concern arises from reports of DRESS syndrome in a preliminary analysis of adverse drug reactions collected in the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) database.

Meftal, primarily composed of mefenamic acid, serves as a pain-relieving agent for muscle and joint pain, menstrual pain, sore throats, nerve pain, and muscle aches. It is prescribed for various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhoea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and dental pain.

According to an official release, to address any encountered reactions, individuals are encouraged to report the matter to the national coordination centre of the PvPI under the commission. Reporting can be done through the website www.ipc.gov.in, the android mobile app ADR PvPI, or the PvPI helpline number 1800-180-3024. /BI/