New Delhi: The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued a cautionary notice regarding the safety of the pain reliever Meftal, commonly used for menstrual cramps and rheumatoid arthritis, according to a report in the media.

The advisory asks healthcare professionals and patients to actively monitor for any negative reactions associated with the drug.

Meftal, which contains mefenamic acid, is prescribed for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhoea, mild to moderate pain, inflammation, fever, and dental pain.

In the alert, the commission highlighted a preliminary examination of adverse drug reactions documented in the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) database, revealing instances of drug reactions linked to eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome, the report said.

In case of encountering such reactions, the advisory recommends reporting the issue to the national coordination center of the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) through the commission's website, www.ipc.gov.in, or using the Android mobile apps ADR PvPI, it added.

Alternatively, individuals can contact the PvPI Helpline at 1800-180-3024.

The IPC functions as an independent body under the Ministry of Health. It plays a crucial role in establishing standards for the manufacturing, sale, and consumption of all drugs in India.