Share

Three months to change pain meds

The Medicines Control Council (MCC) has given a three-month grace period to remove medicines containing the pain-relieving ingredient dextropropoxyphene from the market, a spokesman said.

"The MCC has allowed a three-month grace period to allow for smooth transition of patients to alternative pain relief treatment," Fidel Hadebe said.

"Patients currently taking medicines containing dextropropoxyphene are requested to contact their doctors as soon as possible to obtain advice about stopping these medicines and alternative pain relief treatment."

The MCC resolved on April 14-15 to withdraw the medication due to safety risks.

Pain medicine

Dextropropoxyphene is found in the following medicines used to treat pain: Distalegisic, Doloxene, Doloxene CO-65, Doxyfene, Lentogesic and Synap Forte.

"Dextropropoxyphene causes dose-related cardiac conduction abnormalities which could lead to dangerous irregularities in heart rhythm and rate, including cardiac arrest and death," Hadebe said.

The adverse effects had been observed in healthy, young adults taking normal dosages.

"Dextropropoxyphene and its active breakdown metabolic product are excreted by the kidneys so the elderly and those with impaired renal function would be especially vulnerable as these products can accumulate and reach toxic levels."

The department said several countries, including the US, UK and EU-member states had already withdrawn medicines containing dextropropoxyphene. (EurekAlert/ May 2011)

Read more:
A list of medication

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE