Metamizole is an analgesic-antipyretic drug that is useful as a pain relief at the same time antifever. Metamizole is also known as methampyrone or dipyrone.
The exact mode of action of metamizole is not known, but several studies have shown that metamizole inhibits the prostaglandin hormone that causes pain. This drug can be used to relieve toothache, headache, or arthralgia with mild to moderate intensity.
Metamizole trademark: Antalgin, Ikaneuron Plus, Infalgin, Metamizole Sodium, Mionalgin, Mixalgin, Norages, Novalgin, Neuropyramin-M, Neurosanbe Plus, Pritagesic, Spasmal
What is Metamizole
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) |
| Benefit | Relieves pain and fever |
| Used by | Adults and children |
| Metamizole for pregnant and lactating women | Category C (in the first and second trimesters): Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Category D (in the third trimester): There is positive evidence of risks to the human fetus, but the benefits may outweigh the risks, for example in dealing with life-threatening situations. Metamizole can be absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Tablets and injections |
Precautions Before Using Metamizole
Metamizole should not be used carelessly. The following are things you need to pay attention to before using metamizole:
- Do not use metamizole if you are allergic to this drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had asthma, heart disease, stomach ulcers, kidney disease, duodenal ulcer, liver disorders, porphyria, or G6PD deficiency.
- Tell your doctor if you have low blood pressure, as metamizole can cause hypotension.
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages while you are on treatment with metamizole.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal medicines and supplements.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction or overdose after taking metamizole.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Metamizole
The dose of metamizole is different for each patient. The doctor will determine the dose according to the age, dosage form of the drug, and the patient's condition. In general, the dosage of metamizole tablets for pain relief is as follows:
- Mature: 0.5–1 gram, 3-4 times a day. The maximum dose is 4 grams per day with a duration of treatment for 3-5 days.
- Children aged 3 months: 8–16 mg/kg, 1-4 times a day.
For injectable metamizole, the administration will be given directly by a doctor or medical officer under the supervision of a doctor. Metamizole injection can be given through a vein (intravenous/IV) or through a muscle (intramuscular/IM).
How to Use Metamizole Correctly
Be sure to read the instructions on the drug packaging label and follow the doctor's recommendations for using metamizole.
Metamizole tablets should be taken after meals because they can cause heartburn if taken on an empty stomach.
If you are taking metamizole in tablet form, use a glass of water to swallow the tablet. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet as this may increase side effects.
If you forget to take metamizole, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose of metamizole to make up for a missed dose, unless directed by your doctor.
Store metamizole at room temperature and in a closed container, so that it is not exposed to direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Metamizole Interactions with Other Drugs
There are several interactions that may occur if metamizole is used with other medicines, including:
- Increases toxic effects when used with MAOIs, birth control pills, or allopurinol
- Decreased effectiveness of the drug when used with barbiturates, glutethimide, or phenylbutazone
- Increases risk of thrombocytopenia when used with anticoagulants
- Increases the damaging effect on blood cells when used with methotrexate
- Lowering blood levels of bupropion or ciclosporin
- Increases risk of hypothermia when used with chlorpromazine or phenothiazines
Metamizole Side Effects and Dangers
Side effects that may arise after using metamizole include:
- Dizzy
- Nauseous
- Throw up
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
Check with your doctor if the side effects above don't go away or get worse. Although rare, there are some effects of using metamizole that can be fatal, namely:
- Anaphylactic shock
- Hemolytic anemia or aplastic anemia
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Agranulocytosis (low count of one type of white blood cell) or thrombocytopenia (low number of platelets)