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Next time you pop a Meftal, a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), to get rid of your pain, do so after consulting a doctor on dosage and clarifying whether you need it at all. The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a drug safety alert about the common painkiller, saying its constituent, mefenamic acid, triggers severe allergic reactions like the DRESS syndrome, which affects your internal organs.
“Healthcare professionals, patients and consumers are advised to closely monitor the possibility of the above adverse drug reactions (ADR) associated with the use of the above suspected drug,” the alert said. But doctors say the side effects are extremely rare, already known and that they take care to assess a patient while prescribing a limited dosage. Many doctors confirmed that they hadn’t seen severe adverse reactions during their practice but cautioned that reactions to the drug depended on the individual patient. The real problem is unregulated overuse of the drug. Despite being a prescription medication, mefenamic acid is widely used in India for various purposes, including relieving menstrual pains, headaches and muscle and joint pain, with its use also prevalent among children for high fever. Sold as Meftal, Mefkind, Mefanorm and Ibuclin P, mefenamic acid shares similarities with medications like ibuprofen and aspirin.
WHAT’S THE SIDE EFFECT DRESS SYNDROME ALL ABOUT?
DRESS syndrome (Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms) is a severe allergic reaction affecting around 10 per cent of individuals, potentially deadly and caused by certain medications. It is characterised by fever, skin rash, lymphadenopathy, haematological abnormalities and internal organ involvement and manifests two to eight weeks after the drug has been taken. Vigilance in medication usage is crucial to prevent this severe reaction.
Says Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Mumbai, “After the recent drug safety alert by the IPC on mefenamic acid, it’s crucial to understand that DRESS syndrome linked to this medication can cause symptoms like skin rash, high fever, swollen lymph nodes and complications in internal organs. The alert emphasises vigilant monitoring and reporting of adverse drug reactions for patient safety. If using mefenamic acid, consult a healthcare professional promptly for potential alternatives.”
WATCH OUT FOR GASTROINTESTINAL ISSUES
Another concern is related to gastrointestinal issues. “Prolonged use of drugs like Meftal may increase the risk of stomach ulcers, bleeding and related complications. Those with a history of gastrointestinal problems or concurrently using other NSAIDs or anticoagulants should exercise caution,” says Dr Gautam Bhansali, consultant physician at Bombay Hospital.
Additionally, Meftal has been associated with potential adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. Some studies suggest a correlation between NSAID use, including mefenamic acid, and an increased risk of cardiovascular events, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. Also, some experts have flagged renal complications as a potential side effect of Meftal.
In view of these concerns, healthcare professionals emphasise the importance of responsible and informed use of Meftal. Patients are advised to consult their healthcare providers before starting or continuing Meftal treatment, especially if they have a history of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, or renal issues.
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