Dipyrone-induced granulocytopenia: a case for awareness

Dipyrone, also known as metamizole, is an analgesic and antipyretic drug that was banned by the United States Food and Drug Administration because of its association with agranulocytosis. However, it is still produced and marketed in several countries in Central and South America as well as in Europe, Asia, and Africa. It can also be found in the United States, where illegal sales have been reported in California gift shops, markets, bakeries, and other retail establishments. Dipyrone is commonly found in the homes of families who are originally from areas where it is still lawfully marketed. We describe a patient who developed granulocytopenia and fever after taking dipyrone and discuss the available literature. Our aim is to raise awareness of this drug, which is commonly used outside the United States, and to call attention to its well-known and potentially lethal side effect.