Metamizole sodium

Metamizole sodium is a non-opioid analgesic, antipyretic, and spasmolytic medication that has been in use since the 1920s. Despite being widely available in many countries worldwide, it has been banned in several countries including the United States due to safety concerns. ## Pharmacology and Uses Metamizole sodium works as a potent pain reliever, fever reducer, and muscle spasm relaxant. It's commonly used for: - Moderate to severe pain (including postoperative pain) - Pain from cancer - Migraine headaches - Gastrointestinal tract pain - High fever unresponsive to other agents - Biliary and intestinal colic-like pain The medication can be administered orally, intravenously, intramuscularly, or as a suppository, with dosing typically ranging from 500-1000 mg up to 3-4 times daily for adults, with a maximum daily dose of 4000 mg. ## Safety Profile and Restrictions The most significant safety concern with metamizole sodium is its association with agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening blood disorder characterized by a severe decrease in white blood cell counts. This risk has led to its ban in several countries including the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Canada, and parts of Europe. Other side effects include: - Low blood pressure - Chest pain and arrhythmias - Nausea and upset stomach - Dizziness - Kidney problems - Shortness of breath - Rash - Rare but serious reactions like anaphylaxis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome Recent concerns about liver injury have also emerged, with cases ranging from mild to severe, including some fatalities.

Brand names

NovalginAnalginNeo-MelubrinaOptalginAlgocalminAlgozoneDimethoneProtempPyralginNeosaldinaSedalginaDoridinaMigranetteBenegripAnadorMagnopyrolConmel

Other names

Metamizolum natricumMetamizol sodium hydrateMetamizole sodium monohydrateSulpyrineDipirona