Metagelan (Metamizole Sodium Monohydrate)

Metagelan is a non‑opioid analgesic used in conditions that require strong pain relief or fever reduction.

• Moderate to severe pain: reduces intensity of acute or chronic pain.
• Post‑operative pain: helps control pain after surgical procedures.
• Colic: alleviates visceral pain associated with gastrointestinal spasm.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature in adults.

• Metamizole Sodium acts by non‑selectively inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, which decreases prostaglandin synthesis in peripheral tissues and the central nervous system. This inhibition provides both analgesic and antipyretic effects, while its spasmolytic activity reduces smooth‑muscle contractions contributing to visceral pain.

Metagelan may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are dose‑related and reversible.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: mild to moderate discomfort at the site of administration.
• Nausea: transient feeling of queasiness.
• Dizziness: temporary light‑headedness.
• Hypotension: mild drop in blood pressure.
• Rash: mild skin erythema.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Agranulocytosis: severe reduction in white blood cells, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Anaphylaxis: rapid onset of allergic reaction with airway compromise.
• Hepatotoxicity: liver enzyme elevations indicating possible liver injury.
• Severe skin reactions: such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.
• Hemolysis: breakdown of red blood cells in susceptible individuals.

Before using Metagelan, consider the following safety measures.

• Renal impairment: adjust use in patients with reduced kidney function.
• Hepatic disease: monitor liver function during therapy.
• Hematologic disorders: avoid in patients with existing blood dyscrasias.
• Allergy history: do not administer if the patient has known hypersensitivity to pyrazolones.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze.

Metagelan can interact with several medicines; awareness of these interactions helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of bleeding.
• Other myelosuppressive agents: heightened risk of agranulocytosis.
• ACE inhibitors: may potentiate hypotensive effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• NSAIDs: additive gastrointestinal irritation.
• Diuretics: may enhance hypotensive response.
• Lithium: possible increase in lithium serum levels.