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In November last year, the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) had issued a drug safety alert for a painkiller named Meftal, which is commonly used for menstrual cramps and rheumatoid arthritis and has warned consumers and health professionals about adverse side effects. It was advised to closely monitor the possibility of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). It has been associated with it since the initial analysis of adverse drug reactions from the Pharmacovigilance Program of India (PVPI) database, in which drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome were detected. The main composition of Meftal is Mefenamic Acid which helps in reducing body temperature or fever, reduces pain and swelling or redness and swelling in both infants and children, muscle pain, joint pain, nerve pain or menstruation. Reduces the pain of sore throat and can also help with sore throat. In view of the IPC issuing an alert on the potential adverse effects of mefenamic acid, should parents be concerned about the use of Meftal syrup to treat fever in children?
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rajath Athreya, Senior Consultant and HOD Pediatrics and Neonatology at Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, responded, “Despite its popularity, mefenamic acid lacks global acceptance for the management of childhood fever And recent warnings raise concerns. There is no scientific basis for the tiered approach to medicines, so caution is needed. My practice insists on paracetamol or occasionally ibuprofen, with close attention to danger signs. I avoid prescribing Meftal due to the lack of safety data. Parents and physicians should prefer reliable medicines, stay informed and be patient. In treating fever, reassurance, alertness to danger signs and eternal ‘patience’ are essential components for both the child and the concerned parents.
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