Metamizole has been used for around a hundred years. However, its safety has been controversial for decades. The European regulatory authority is now re-examining the active ingredient for its risks. What patients need to know.
There were two cases of severe blood disorders within the past 20 months that were apparently the deciding factor. This was the reason given by the Finnish branch of the Japanese pharmaceutical company Takeda on June 13th when it announced the withdrawal of its drug Litalgin. This is a drug with two active ingredients: an antispasmodic called pitofenone and the strong painkiller metamizole. According to Takeda, the benefit-risk ratio of Litalgin has been repeatedly re-evaluated in recent years as a precautionary measure. And continued production has been justified up to now. However, the two new cases mean that the risk now outweighs the therapeutic benefit – and so the company has been discontinued.
Source: Stern
I’m Caroline, a journalist and author for 24 Hours Worlds. I specialize in health-related news and stories, bringing real-world impact to readers across the globe. With my experience in journalism and writing in both print and online formats, I strive to provide reliable information that resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
