Dipyrone-containing analgesics.

Analgesics containing dipyrone continue to be available throughout Africa, including South Africa and Zimbabwe. Although an effective analgesic and antipyretic, dipyrone may cause severe side-effects, including agranulocytosis. The mechanism of this hypersensitivity reaction has been well documented, and many reports of agranulocytosis associated with dipyrone use have been published. Use of this drug has been prohibited or restricted in several countries. Dipyrone is known by a variety of official names, which may contribute to confusion in deciding whether a particular preparation contains this drug. The prescribing information contained in the Monthly Index of Medical Specialities (MIMS) (South Africa) and the MIMS Desk Reference is inadequate for some of the products available, although the package inserts do provide more detailed information. The continued use of these products is difficult to justify when safer alternatives are available.