Government issues safety warning against Meftal Spas; heres what expert says
The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has cautioned the public against the use of Meftal Spas, a medication commonly employed as a pain reliever for conditions such as menstrual cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and dental pain.The commission, following an initial review of drug reactions in the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) database, identified cases of a syndrome known as drug reactions with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS).
Meftal Spas is a combination of two drugs, dicyclomine and mefenamic acid.
Individually, both dicyclomine and mefenamic acid play crucial roles in the body. When used in tandem, they alleviate menstrual and stomach cramps. Dicyclomine relaxes stomach and gut muscles, preventing sudden muscle contractions, thereby relieving cramps, pain, bloating, and discomfort. Simultaneously, mefenamic acid, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), reduces abdominal pain and inflammation by blocking specific chemical messengers.
As per the IPC alert, mefenamic acid in Meftal Spas may lead to negative reactions associated with DRESS syndrome.
Dr Harsh Bhatt, Critical Care Consultant, Rjn Apollo Spectra Hospital, answered a few questions on the matter:
Recent studies have shown that Meftal Spas can adversely affect kidney function. Prolonged use may damage the kidney, potentially causing chronic kidney disease with elevated urea and creatinine levels, leading to renal failure. The Drug Regulatory Department of India has imposed restrictions on the drug and may consider a complete ban in the future, says Bhatt.
Are there other harmful drugs available without a prescription?
Dr. Bhatt highlighted that several drugs, including Diclofenac and Aceclofenac, can be equally harmful when used for an extended period. While controlled use for treating diseases is not harmful, prolonged usage can negatively impact various organs such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, and heart.
Nice information