[Considerations concerning the perioperative use of metamizole]
R Sittl1, P Bäumler1, A-M Stumvoll1
1Interdisziplinäre Schmerzambulanz, Klinik für Anaesthesiologie, Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, München, Deutschland.
Background:
The non-opioid analgesic metamizole (dipyrone) is approved for the treatment of severe pain and is often used in the perioperative period. As it can cause agranulocytosis, a severe adverse event, its perioperative administration is controversially discussed.
Objective:
Is there enough evidence for a high risk of metamizol-induced agranulocytosis (MIA)? What are the consequences of its perioperative use with respect to the risk profiles of alternative analgesics?
Material And Methods:
Rapid review of the literature on the risk of MIA and adverse effects of non-opioid analgesics.
Results:
The incidence of MIA is estimated to be one case per million inhabitants per year. The risk seems low compared to other drugs associated with a risk of agranulocytosis, such as antithyroid drugs and ticlopidine. The risk profile of metamizole concerning hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, bleeding and cardiovascular adverse effects is favorable compared to other non-opioid analgesics. None of the non-opioid analgesics are licensed to be administered intraoperatively.
Conclusion:
The perioperative use of metamizole is possible after a thorough evaluation of the indications as it provides good analgesia with a generally favorable side effect profile and is administered intravenously. The risk of agranulocytosis is small but needs to be mentioned during patient informed consent in order to optimize early recognition. Intraoperative administration aims at reducing the expected severe postoperative pain. A documentation and justification for the evaluation of the indications are recommended.
Insights
Metamizole (dipyrone) offers effective pain relief with a favorable side effect profile, making its perioperative use acceptable. The risk of metamizol-induced agranulocytosis (MIA) is low, but requires patient awareness for early recognition.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Anesthesiology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Metamizole (dipyrone) is a non-opioid analgesic used for severe pain, particularly in the perioperative setting.
- Its use is debated due to the risk of agranulocytosis, a serious adverse event.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the evidence for metamizol-induced agranulocytosis (MIA) risk.
- To compare the risks of perioperative metamizole with alternative analgesics.
Main Methods:
- A rapid literature review was conducted.
- Focused on MIA risk and adverse effects of non-opioid analgesics.
Main Results:
- MIA incidence is approximately one case per million inhabitants annually, a low risk compared to other drugs.
- Metamizole has a favorable risk profile regarding hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, bleeding, and cardiovascular effects compared to alternatives.
- No non-opioid analgesics are approved for intraoperative use.
Conclusions:
- Perioperative metamizole use is feasible with careful indication assessment, offering good analgesia and a favorable side effect profile.
- The small risk of agranulocytosis necessitates informed consent for early recognition.
- Intraoperative administration may reduce severe postoperative pain, requiring documentation and justification.
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