Praktické lekárnictvo 1/2022

Metamizole (dipyrone)

Metamizole has been known and used for almost 100 years, yet several unknowns are still associated with its use. This paper focuses on a more detailed description of this drug’s kinetics to provide necessary information for estimating adequate dosing in patients with impaired kidney or liver functions. In this area, not only the summaries of product characteristics but also the literature are relatively austere. Furthermore, we would like to draw attention to the potential for cross-reaction with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which may not be obvious at first glance. In clinical practice, it can be easily overlooked. Subsequently, we discuss the options for therapy of pain in patients with a known allergy to metamizole. In the last part, we remind you of the changes in the approval for metamizole during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We also draw attention to the currently issued warning against hepatotoxicity.

Keywords: metamizole, pharmacokinetics, cross reaction, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents, adverse drug reaction