*** Please Note***
The information and instructions on the following pages should not replace those given to you by your doctor.
How does Metamizole (Optalgin) work?
Metamizole is used for pain relief and to lower fever.
Do NOT use Metamizole (Optalgin) when
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Your child has an allergy to one of the ingredients in the drug
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Your child is missing the G6PD enzyme
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Your child is suffering from acute porphyria or has suppressed bone marrow
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You’re pregnant or nursing
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Do not use the medication for an extended period of time
Consult your doctor when
Your child has a medical condition, especially one that affects the respiratory system (such as asthma), the liver, the kidneys or the circulatory system.
Your child is taking other medications.
Store the medicine in a cool dry place, out of reach of children. Do not use if it is past the expiration date.
Make sure your child takes the medication at the set time.
Tablets
Tablets are given to children over the age of 15. Your child should take 1-2 tablets up to 4 times a day (no more than 8 tablets a day). Tablets can be cut but not chewed or crushed.
Drops
If your child is over the age of 15, he should take 25-50 drops, up to 4 times a day (no more than 200 drops a day).
Metamizole should not be taken more than 4 times a day
3-11 mos.: 2-6 drops up to 4 times a day
1-3 years: 4-12 drops up to 4 times a day
4-6 years: 6-19 drops up to 4 times a day
7-9 years: 10-25 drops up to 4 times a day
10-12 years: 12-37 drops up to 4 times a day
13-14 years: 19-44 drops up to 4 times a day
What should I do if I forgot to give my child the dose on time?
Skip that dose. Do not double the next dose.
When does treatment end?
Follow the directions given to you by your doctor.
Call your doctor when
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Your child’s pain doesn’t subside after 10 days or the fever doesn’t go away after 3 days.
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If your child’s condition gets worse
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Your child experiences an allergic reaction – rash, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, swelling around the eyes, lips, hands, legs or face.
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Your child experiences side effects such as nausea, persistent headaches, temporary kidney malfunction or an allergic reaction
This medication may cause leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, or agranulocytosis. This reaction is rare. It is characterized by drowsiness or weakness which lasts 2-3 days, after which come fever and throat aches. If one of these symptoms occurs (generally 1-2 days after beginning treatment), stop treatment immediately and call your doctor. Inform him if your child is taking another drug at the same time.
Do not use this drug for an extended period of time without consulting your doctor.
This medication can turn acidic urine red. This is normal.