The popular painkiller Meftal has been a woman’s best friend all this time. It is widely used to relieve pain during menstrual cramps! However, recently, the union government issued a safety warning against it. The Pioneer’s SHIKHA DUGGAL brings a detailed report on the issue and safety concerns, among others.
Our only true friend in the whole universe was meftal spas, and now, women, it’s time for you to write love letters for this medication because it deserves a lot of special attention since the time our government issued a safety warning against it. Should we be taking meftal spas up to this time? This popular painkiller is widely used to relieve pain during menstrual cramps! This recent news has shaken women of all strata in our country. From comments like “there is a high usage of this medication,” “so, what’s the alternative then?” “I haven’t experienced any side effects yet,” or “I’ll die without it,” etcetera, is what’s going around on the internet. Because there are so many claims being made, as a social responsibility, through our health talk segment, we’d like to clear up the adverse reactions of the female population first.
Neeraj Kumar Tulara, general medicine and infection disease specialist from Hiranandani Hospitals, says, “Women who have been using meftal for a long time should talk to their doctors as soon as possible. The advisory says it’s really important to keep an eye out for possible problems linked to it, like the risk of DRESS syndrome. Those who are using it for an extended period cause issues like stomach problems and kidney diseases.” It’s essential to understand that there might be risks, like causing a severe allergic reaction that can affect various parts of our body. The advisory mentions that the use of meftal, specifically its active ingredient, mefenamic acid, can potentially lead to adverse reactions such as stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney problems, especially with prolonged use. The extent of these adverse reactions can vary among individuals. We need to stress the importance of heeding the safety alert, closely monitoring for any signs of adverse reactions, and consulting promptly if such reactions occur. The goal is to balance the need for pain relief with minimising the risks associated with the medication!
Tanmay Banerjee, from Medica Superspecialty Hospital, informs, “Consulting a doctor before taking painkillers is so crucial. Many women rely on this medication for period cramps and pelvic pain, but excessive use can lead to issues. For other types of pain or for different purposes, such as alleviating pain in other parts of the body, using paracetamol is a safe option. It’s essential to consider this alternative under different circumstances while ensuring safety and effectiveness.”
Meftal Spas is a combination medication containing two active ingredients: dicyclomine hydrochloride and mefenamic acid. Dicyclomine hydrochloride, an anticholinergic, plays a key role in easing the pain. Combining it with paracetamol can further enhance its effectiveness in relieving discomfort for women experiencing menstrual pain! “Now, DRESS syndrome is a pivotal concern associated with this medicine. Patients may experience acute skin rash, fever, and blood count irregularities, such as decreased platelets and increased eosinophils. In rare cases, it is also life-threatening. It is advised that individuals with dengue refrain from taking this medicine, as its usage in such cases may exacerbate symptoms and result in complications and increased bleeding,” called out a very important pointer in this whole fiasco going on. The primary issue lies in the uncontrolled excessive usage of this medication. Some women have developed a psychological reliance on it, even resorting to taking it before their menstrual discomfort starts, which is inappropriate and contributes to the negative impact of its overuse. Individual reactions to the drug vary among patients. Adhering strictly to the prescribed usage guidelines helps avoid adverse effects. However, it’s crucial to take precautions in any scenario involving this medication.
“I am a doctor who takes meftal spas, prescribes them, and my research on them continues. The side effect that is being made a fuss about is an extremely rare case scenario, especially the systemic reactions. It’s usually a side effect of anti-seizure drugs. The statistics around the spread of dress syndrome are also hardly three to five percent. There is no research on NSAIDs causing any symptoms in our country, nor is there any research on mefenamic acid causing adverse reactions at the moment. Takeaway message: don’t just keep popping the pills, and you are going to be just fine,” clarified Dr. Divya Vora, a gynaecologist, simplifying reproduction health for the ladies!
Like any other drug, we all should know that individual responses to medications can vary, and not everyone will experience side effects. Since this has been used by many women in India to get relief from menstrual cramps, gynaecologist Dr. Vinatha Puli from Cloudnine Hospital felt it’s a good move that caution has been raised against its usage because at least women will visit the doctor and not self-medicate! This must be a prescribed drug and not an over-the-counter medicine.
This move will also help reduce the abuse of the drug, as it will help the doctors identify any underlying problems or lifestyle changes that are required.
Neeraj Kumar Tulara, general medicine and infection disease specialist from Hiranandani Hospitals, says, “Women who have been using meftal for a long time should talk to their doctors as soon as possible. The advisory says it’s really important to keep an eye out for possible problems linked to it, like the risk of DRESS syndrome. Those who are using it for an extended period cause issues like stomach problems and kidney diseases.” It’s essential to understand that there might be risks, like causing a severe allergic reaction that can affect various parts of our body. The advisory mentions that the use of meftal, specifically its active ingredient, mefenamic acid, can potentially lead to adverse reactions such as stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney problems, especially with prolonged use. The extent of these adverse reactions can vary among individuals. We need to stress the importance of heeding the safety alert, closely monitoring for any signs of adverse reactions, and consulting promptly if such reactions occur. The goal is to balance the need for pain relief with minimising the risks associated with the medication!
Tanmay Banerjee, from Medica Superspecialty Hospital, informs, “Consulting a doctor before taking painkillers is so crucial. Many women rely on this medication for period cramps and pelvic pain, but excessive use can lead to issues. For other types of pain or for different purposes, such as alleviating pain in other parts of the body, using paracetamol is a safe option. It’s essential to consider this alternative under different circumstances while ensuring safety and effectiveness.”
Meftal Spas is a combination medication containing two active ingredients: dicyclomine hydrochloride and mefenamic acid. Dicyclomine hydrochloride, an anticholinergic, plays a key role in easing the pain. Combining it with paracetamol can further enhance its effectiveness in relieving discomfort for women experiencing menstrual pain! “Now, DRESS syndrome is a pivotal concern associated with this medicine. Patients may experience acute skin rash, fever, and blood count irregularities, such as decreased platelets and increased eosinophils. In rare cases, it is also life-threatening. It is advised that individuals with dengue refrain from taking this medicine, as its usage in such cases may exacerbate symptoms and result in complications and increased bleeding,” called out a very important pointer in this whole fiasco going on. The primary issue lies in the uncontrolled excessive usage of this medication. Some women have developed a psychological reliance on it, even resorting to taking it before their menstrual discomfort starts, which is inappropriate and contributes to the negative impact of its overuse. Individual reactions to the drug vary among patients. Adhering strictly to the prescribed usage guidelines helps avoid adverse effects. However, it’s crucial to take precautions in any scenario involving this medication.
“I am a doctor who takes meftal spas, prescribes them, and my research on them continues. The side effect that is being made a fuss about is an extremely rare case scenario, especially the systemic reactions. It’s usually a side effect of anti-seizure drugs. The statistics around the spread of dress syndrome are also hardly three to five percent. There is no research on NSAIDs causing any symptoms in our country, nor is there any research on mefenamic acid causing adverse reactions at the moment. Takeaway message: don’t just keep popping the pills, and you are going to be just fine,” clarified Dr. Divya Vora, a gynaecologist, simplifying reproduction health for the ladies!
Like any other drug, we all should know that individual responses to medications can vary, and not everyone will experience side effects. Since this has been used by many women in India to get relief from menstrual cramps, gynaecologist Dr. Vinatha Puli from Cloudnine Hospital felt it’s a good move that caution has been raised against its usage because at least women will visit the doctor and not self-medicate! This must be a prescribed drug and not an over-the-counter medicine.
This move will also help reduce the abuse of the drug, as it will help the doctors identify any underlying problems or lifestyle changes that are required.
Here are some tips from Dr. Vinatha that may help relieve menstrual cramps:
1. Applying heat packs to the lower abdomen can help relax the muscles and alleviate cramps. You can use a hot water bottle, a heating pad, or take a warm bath.
2. Regular physical activity, such as walking or gentle stretching, can help reduce menstrual cramps. Exercise releases endorphins, which act as natural painkillers.
3. Some women find relief by making dietary adjustments, such as reducing caffeine intake, avoiding salty foods, and increasing their consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
4. Staying well-hydrated is essential. Dehydration can exacerbate cramps, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
5. Chamomile or ginger tea may have calming effects and help alleviate menstrual cramps. Peppermint tea can also help relax muscles.
6. Practicing deep breathing exercises or relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can help manage stress and reduce cramping.
7. For more severe cramps, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain relievers or hormonal medications.
8. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep, can contribute to overall well-being and may help manage menstrual cramps.
