For years, the painkiller Metamizole, known by trade names like Nolotil, Novalgin, and Analgin has been commonly prescribed in Spain and other parts of the world for pain relief, despite being banned in countries like the United States, UK, Japan, and Australia. Known to cause agranulocytosis, Nolotil (the name under which it is marketed in Spain) has been linked to numerous severe reactions, including sepsis, and particularly among British and Nordic patients. The health risks associated with this drug are numerous and concerning, to say the least.
What specific known adverse reactions are linked to Nolotil (Metamizole)?
Nolotil is linked to severe side effects, particularly agranulocytosis, a condition that dangerously reduces white blood cell count and heightens infection risk. British and Irish expats and tourists, especially those with fair complexions, are reported to be more vulnerable. This has resulted in numerous cases of fatal infections like sepsis. Over 100 severe cases involving expats in Spain have been documented, with at least 40 linked to British and Irish people. The Association of Drug Affected Patients (ADAF) is pursuing legal action against the Spanish government.
Is the (EMA) European Medicines Agency aware of the dangers associated with Nolotil?
The EMA recently ruled that Nolotil’s benefits outweigh its health risks, maintaining its availability in Spain. This decision has faced backlash from families of victims, who believe the drug should be banned for at-risk populations. Many family members argue that financial pressure from large pharmacy has influenced the decision, saying that pharmaceutical companies prioritize profits over human lives.
What steps has Spain’s health agency, AEMPS, taken to address Nolotil’s serious health risks?
In 2018, Spain’s Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) issued guidelines advising against prescribing Nolotil to travelers and tourists (groups that might not be available for medical follow-ups). However, the guidelines have reportedly been inconsistently followed, with Nolotil still being prescribed without proper warnings, or follow-up monitoring, especially in emergency settings.
Is it only the British that are susceptible to Nolotil?
No, the susceptibility to adverse effects from Nolotil (Metamizole) is not exclusive to British individuals. Studies and reports indicate that Northern Europeans, particularly those with lighter skin tones, seem to have a higher risk of developing agranulocytosis. This susceptibility has been noted among other Northern European tourists and expats in Spain, and particularly from Scandinavian countries.
What can I do if I want to help?
Please share the information here with as many people as possible. Your engagement can help save lives, as it seems the only way the majority of foreigners living in Spain are hearing about this is through word of mouth.
You can also join and share information in forums or expat communities. Many expats in these communities may not be aware of the risks associated with Nolotil / Metamizole.
Cristina García del Campo, a medical interpreter in Jávea, Spain, leads a campaign raising awareness of Nolotil’s risks, particularly for Northern Europeans. After seeing several cases, Cristina gathered evidence and testimonies, meeting with Spain’s Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AEMPS) to push for stricter prescription guidelines. Her efforts have reached over 100 thousand people, and she actively supports families affected by Nolotil, calling for further regulations and a potential ban for high-risk groups.
You can reach Cristina on her Facebook page, where she also publishes drug research results https://www.facebook.com/Cristina-Research-Information-1150111111797207/
Which countries have banned or restricted the use of Nolotil?
Countries that have banned or heavily restricted the use of Nolotil / Metamizole include:
United Kingdom – Banned since the 1960s due to safety concerns.
United States – The FDA banned it in 1977 due to its risk of agranulocytosis.
Japan – Also banned for similar safety reasons.
Australia – Prohibited for its blood-related side effects.
Sweden – Banned due to its risks, specifically for agranulocytosis.
Canada – Banned since the 1970s over safety concerns.
New Zealand – Not permitted for use.
Norway – Restricted and not available for prescription.
Denmark – Banned following reports of adverse reactions.
In contrast, metamizole remains available in many countries, including Spain, Brazil, Mexico, India, and many parts of Europe.
Trade Names
Novalgin (Germany, Switzerland), Algocalmin (Romania), Analgin (Russia, Eastern Europe), Nolotil (commonly in Spain), Baralgin (Mexico, parts of Latin America), Optalgin (Israel), Neomelubrina, Pyralgina (used in Poland), Spasmalgon (Bulgaria).
Other names: Dipyrone
