The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a drug safety alert regarding the painkiller Meftal, commonly used for menstrual cramps and rheumatoid arthritis. Healthcare professionals and patients are advised to monitor adverse reactions associated with the drug.
Meftal, which contains mefenamic acid, is prescribed for the treatment of various conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhoea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and dental pain.
The commission’s alert is based on a preliminary analysis of adverse drug reactions reported in the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) database. It revealed cases of drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome.
In light of this, healthcare professionals and patients are urged to closely monitor for the possibility of this adverse drug reaction (ADR) when using Meftal. If such a reaction is encountered, individuals are advised to report the matter to the national coordination centre of the PvPI under the IPC. This can be done by filing a form on the website www.ipc.gov.in or through the android mobile app ADR PvPI. Additionally, individuals can contact the PvPI Helpline at 1800-180-3024.
The IPC, an autonomous institution of the Ministry of Health, is responsible for setting standards for all drugs manufactured, sold, and consumed in India.
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