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Metamizole (dipyrone; NSAID, analgesic)

Written by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD · Pharmacology


Updated Jul 28, 2021

    Metamizole, or dipyrone, are generic nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It relieves pain, inflammation, and reduces fever.

    Uses

    What is metamizole or dipyrone used for?

    Treating pain and fever due to various causes.

    How should I take metamizole or dipyrone?

    Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

    For oral dosage forms, swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid.

    For parenteral dosage forms, only a licensed healthcare professional should administer it.

    How do I store metamizole or dipyrone?

    Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

    There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

    You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

    Precautions & Warnings

    What should I know before using metamizole or dipyrone?

    Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

    • Pregnant or breastfeeding.
    • Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
    • An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
    • Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

    Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    NSAIDs are generally not recommended for use during pregnancy and is contraindicated for use during the 3rd trimester. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.

    Side Effects

    What side effects can occur from metamizole or dipyrone?

    Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Diarrhea
    • Pain and discomfort in the stomach
    • Drowsiness
    • Nervousness
    • Headache
    • Dizziness
    • Blood in the urine, change in color of urine
    • Skin rash
    • Itching
    • Swelling
    • Shortness of breath
    • Cold sweat drenching and others
    • Anemia
    • Agranulocytosis
    • Fever
    • Fatigue
    • Difficulty swallowing
    • Dry mouth
    • Decreased blood pressure

    However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

    Interactions

    What drugs may interact with metamizole or dipyrone?

    This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

    To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

    Drugs with known interactions:

    • Anticoagulants
    • Phenothiazines
    • Chlorpromazine
    • Tricyclic antidepressants
    • Oral contraceptives
    • MAOIs
    • Allopurinol
    • Barbiturates
    • Glutethimide
    • Phenylbutazone
    • Methotrexate
    • Oral antidiabetic agents
    • Sulfonamides
    • Phenytoin
    • Bupropion
    • Ciclosporin
    • Alcohol-containing preparations

    If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

    Does food or alcohol interact with metamizole or dipyrone?

    This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not consume alcohol with this medication. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

    What health conditions may interact with metamizole or dipyrone?

    This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

    • Asthma
    • COPD
    • Bone marrow disease
    • Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
    • Anemia
    • Liver impairment
    • Kidney impairment
    • Peptic ulcer disease
    • Cardiovascular disease

    Dosage

    The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

    What is the dose for an adult?

    Fever and severe pain

    Parenteral

    • As metamizole Na: 1 g up to 4 times daily or 2.5 g twice a day given via IV injection over 5 minutes or via IM injection. Adjust dose based on severity and patient response. Max: 5 g daily.

    Oral

  • As metamizole Na: 0.5-1 g up to 3-4 times daily. Max: 4 g daily. Max treatment duration: 3-5 days.
  • What is the dose for a child?

    Fever and severe pain

    Parenteral

    • As methimazole Na: ≥3 months dosage varies based on body weight.

    Oral

    • As methimazole Na drops: ≥3 months dosage varies based on body weight.
    • Recommended dose: 8-16 mg/kg as a single dose, may repeat if necessary, up to 3 or 4 times daily.
    • Refer to individual product literature for detailed guidelines.

    How is metamizole or dipyrone available?

    metamizole or dipyrone is available in the following dosage forms and strengths: ampoules and tablets.

    • Tablet: 250 – 500 mg
    • Oral drop solution: 500 mg/ml

    What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

    In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

    What should I do if I miss a dose?

    If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.

    Disclaimer

    Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

    Written by

    Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD

    Pharmacology


    Updated Jul 28, 2021

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