Context: The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) issued a drug safety alert regarding the common painkiller, Meftal.

IPC issues drug safety alert for Meftal

• This was based on a preliminary analysis conducted on adverse drug reactions by the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI).
• The Commission also advises people to take the drug only after consulting a doctor.
• Healthcare professionals and patients are advised to be vigilant for signs of DRESS syndrome and other adverse drug reactions.

About Meftal:

• Meftal is a commonly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
• The primary component of Meftal is Mefenamic acid, a pain-relieving medication employed to mitigate muscle and joint discomfort as well as menstrual pain (menstrual cramps and rheumatoid arthritis). 
• Drug Action: Reduce the production of prostaglandins, which increases the pain sensation.
• Use: It is  commonly prescribed for various conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhoea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and dental pain.
• Risk and Side effects: In addition to DRESS syndrome, other side effects such as abdominal pain, indigestion, dry mouth, blurred vision, increased blood pressure, swelling and gastrointestinal issues like stomach ulcers and bleeding.

DRESS Syndrome: 

• The Drug Rash with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a rare and potentially life-threatening reaction to a medication.
• Symptoms: Fever, Skin rash, Lymphadenopathy, eosinophilia, and a spectrum of systemic manifestations ranging from mild to severe.

Source: Livemint