Safety First

It has came to my attention that certain medications or medication ingredients, that are banned in other countries due to their adverse and harmful effects, are still being sold here in the Phililippines. Reading the column Toral: Drug safety opened up my mind to this alarming fact which could actually jeopardize the health and overall wellness of the Filipino people who consume such products.

Health is a very serious thing to consider and the health department of the government could actually look into certain issues like drug safety more closely. How come that there are medication ingredients that are prohibited overseas, continually circulate in the Philippine market today?  

For instance, Saridon  has been cited as unsafe for its new formulation has propyphenazone that can have negative side-effects to those who take it. Propyphenazone ingredient is already restricted from countries like Korea, Malaysia and Thailand. The World Health Organization on its statement about propyphenazone : "Propyphenazone, a pyrazolone derivative with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity, was introduced in 1951 for the treatment of rheumatic disorders. As it is structurally related to aminophenazone it has been associated with severe blood dyscrasias. However, it cannot be transformed into potentially carcinogenic nitrosamines and has therefore been widely used as a replacement drug for aminophenazone. In certain countries, products containing propyphenazone have now been restricted in their indications, whereas in others they are still available, sometimes as over-the-counter preparations.” This is really something that we need to take consideration on.

Furthermore, another medication which is still readily available in the market today called Sinutab Extra Strength  contains an ingredient which is said to be hazardous. The said medication contains phenylpropanolamine which exposes whoever consumes it to hemorrhagic risk, especially women. The said chemical is not recommended in the US.

With these two medications that are imposing a threat to the wellness of the Filipinos, it is high time for the health department to reexamine closely the approved medications that are circulating in the market today. Maybe a review on the ingredients utilized in medicines, and taking a second look into their possible effects, is essential in order to further elevate the quality of products being sold in the country. The medications we have in our pharmacies should be safe enough for every Filipino people to consume. More to that, the companies who released these medications in the market should be responsible enough to properly issue the concrete facts and information regarding their products for the government to properly identify what is hazardous and not.

You could check out some of the banned medicines on Banned medicine blog and help spread the news and uphold the awareness of the safeness of the medicines out in the market today. 

Original post: Safety First

Is your Medicine Safe?

 

As someone who has high tolerance in pain. I am not a fan of pain relievers. In fact, when I had my child labor, I specifically asked our doctor not to induce any anesthesia (four times for four kids!). I said I can handle the pain. I use self-hypnosis. I simply get my self ready mentally, emotionally and psychologically. That also meant a lot of savings from our hospital bill.

However, if my kids are in pain, that becomes a different story. As a mother, I try my best to 'rescue' and relieve them of any discomfort.

Sometimes, I try my best to seemingly 'ignore' my kids' complaints when it comes to ordinary pains hoping they will develop a high tolerance in pain; which I presume, is a simple practice of developing tolerance to disappointments and discomforts that life may bring in the future. I believe that whatever experiences a person may have in his childhood has an impact on how he would deal in his adulthood. 

However, as a normal mother, I often end up using pain relievers as I cannot stand seeing any of my kids suffer for long. I was specifically bugged when I stumbled upon an article regarding drug safety written by a fellow blogger.

I found out that a safety issue about a certain pain reliever brand was left unanswered by Bayer the manufacturer of Saridon, and the Department of Health.

It was mentioned that propyphenazone, an active ingredient in Saridon made by Bayer, is actually banned in other countries like Sri Lanka, Korea, Malaysia and Turkey. It is very alarming that the general public wasn't aware of the possible side effects and health hazards that propyphenazone may pose.

For instance, the website Filipino Doctor (http://saridon.thefilipinodoctor.com/faq.php) listed some information about the medicine and indicated pregnancy risk and intake prescription depending on age. The Saridon Wikipedia page cited an age ban for Korea, with those 15 years old and below not allowed to take the medication. What is more alarming is the growing popularity of the said medicine as they claimed to be in this video. 

 

 

Now, its making sense why an ad by Biogesic kept saying "Lahat ng gamot effective, pero lahat ba safe?" (All medicines are effective, but are all medicines safe?

 

To Bayer and Department of Health, this issue should not be left unanswered. Please do not let the consumers grope in the dark.

 

A challenge was given and I quote "To Bayer and Department of Health, I will very much appreciate more information about the propyphenazone ban in other countries and why it doesn’t apply in the Philippines. I will be happy to write a column about it if information is given."

We are waiting for your answers. Now, let me pose this question to my dear readers, Is your medicine safe? 

Original article: Is your Medicine Safe?

Drug Safety Is Everyone's Concern

On one of my blog-hopping days, I came upon one article on the net about drug safety. I have previously written about medicines and how they were advertised through the tri-media and wondered whether this factor can affect the audiences reception about the product itself. Whether the audience/people are swayed into using the products because it was portrayed in such a way that it becomes the more obvious choice. 

As a consumer of different products/medicines that are in the market today, I believe that it is my concern to know whether a product is safe. It is not only enough to rely on ads/commercials because it is our health and safety we are talking about here. 

One of which caught my attention was the product named Saridon by Bayer. In an article by Miss Toral at the Sunstar Website (you may read it here), she pointed out that this product contains Propyphenazone which might have side effects to those who take it. Now, we all know, through Saridon's commercial or in some other way that this product targets pain and deals with headaches that are caused by extreme heat, abrupt weather changes, stress, loud noise, and other environmental factors. And with its very affordable prize, here in the Philippines, it has been known to become popular against headaches; accordingly more and more Filipinos particularly in Visayas and Mindanao are frequent users of this product. 

All in all, I though, it must be a good product since it has gained a following here in the Philippines and is affordable compared to other brands. But as I read the article further, I learned that the product is banned in a  number of countries such as Turkey, Sri Lanka, Korea, Malaysia and Thailand. Now this sparked curiosity. Why would these countries ban the product if it is doing good as it claims? In Korea those who are below the age of 15 are banned to take it. The product also restricts its usage for those who are pregnant and are suffering under certain conditions listed here. But you will only know this if you really read the labels because these aren't included in the commercial/ads at all. I think this should be clearly communicated not only in the ads, but also in their webpages or FB pages since they have one that include phenacetin which can prove to be carcinogenic (can cause cancer). Article can be found here.

I think it would be better if the DOH and Bayer can provide more information about the active ingredients in this product. In this way, consumers will know and can judge for themselves if this product is indeed worth taking. 

 

Original article: Drug Safety Is Everyone's Concern

To Pop This Pill or Not?

Headaches are THE WORST! Whenever I feel something bad, I always have this need to take a pill just to stop it and go on with my life. One of my officemates would even take a leave when her migraine occurs. So as I "googled" the best pill to take, I happened to see the Saridon commercial above. I thought it was real funny, yet very violent, especially for children. But if that ad could amuse, and invite me to try their product, then I could be one of its "markets". 

Apparently, Ms. Janette Toral's article on Drug Safety had me on a complete halt from popping this pill. Based from http://saridon.thefilipinodoctor.com/faq.php, the ingredients of Saridon consists of 250mg Paracetamol, 150mg Propyphenazone and 50mg  Caffeine. And while I adore caffeine and its products such as coffee, I can't help but get worried about the Propyphenazone content in the drug. 

Even in its Wiki definition, Propyphenazone and even Saridon is already banned in other countries. What I could not understand is how they can get away with selling the product, without prescription necessary, amidst the fact that its causing health related problems already.

My Mom, who is a nurse, refers to MIMS if she needs a certain drug. According to its page, Propyphenazone's drug reaction includes hypersensitivity reactions; nephrotoxicity, nausea, drowsiness, coma and convulsions on large doses. Would you want to have your headache gone, only to be replaced with these side effects? I know I don't!

I hope the the Department of Health and its manufacturer, Bayer would regulate drugs like Saridon. Or even answer as to why its cheaper and easily bought in spite of its side effects. After all, we would want to lessen the pain, instead of triggering another one that would blow up to our face so easily.

Original article: To Pop This Pill or Not?

Safety Issues: What's in my medicine? (Propyphenazone and Phenylpropanolamine)

Today, I bought Saridon from Mercury Drug at P 4.50 per tablet. I asked if there are any other medicines with Propyphenazone but the pharmacists could not give me any. Saridon is a drug available in the Philippines over-the-counter. When you say over-the-counter, it means that pharmacies can dispense the drug without the need of doctor's prescription.

An article in Sunstar Cebu has questioned the safety of Saridon, and more specifically, the safety of one of its main ingredients, Propyphenazone. The issue presented on the mentioned article boils down on how Prophyphenazone is banned in some countries while it is allowed in the Philippines with seemingly low to no dispensing restrictions, and on how medicines should be restricted on specific cases.

Saridon is not the only drug in the Philippines with Propyphenazone. Propyphenazone is mainly used to relieve pain and fever and is made a component of drugs due to its fast onset of action. With Propyphenazone, a drug takes effect in as little as 15 minutes. According to The Filipino Doctor, Propyphenazone acts quickly but also loses its effect quickly, so it complements Paracetamol, which takes effect slowly but has a longer lasting effect.

Propyphenazone, along with most if not all drugs, has contraindications, side effects and adverse drug reactions. They drug's dosage, which was listed by Mims Drug Information System at .5 to upto 1g up to 4 times daily for adults could readily tell us that the the amount of Propyhenazone in Saridon (which is only 150 mg per tablet) is way lower than the recommended dosage. Personally, I believe that the content of Propyhenazone in Saridon does not pose serious risk unless of course if the drug is taken in large doses for long periods of time, or if the drug is taken by people who are not supposed to take it like pregnant women and children.

The banning of Propyphenazone in some countries creates a lot of stir and would make us question why these medicines are not restricted for Filipino consumption.

On the other hand, Phenylpropanolamine is strictly regulated in the United States, was withdrawn in the Canadian Market, and banned in India. In 2010, the USA Food and Drugs Administration took steps to remove Phenylpropanolamine-containing medicines in the market, which then moved drug companies in reformulating these medicines. Phenylpropanolamine is an ingredient of Sinutab Extra Strength, which is also available in our country as an over-the-counter medicine.

With all these information placing us in a limbo, I can't help but question if there is a specific person or office which should clear these issues, and some more issues on medicines which have not even been brought up online. In my conversation with a certain doctor, I was told that the regulation of drugs is generally the function of ourFood and Drugs Administration (formerly Bureau of Food and Drugs or BFAD). Being the the guiding authority in this matter, it is only proper that our government agency should take the necessary measure in regulating drugs and ensuring that proper information about drug and medicine use would reach our kababayans. Our FDA is even mandated to monitor product advertisements and promotions to ensure that they comply with the existing laws.

We Filipinos are so fond of self-medicating. We don't go to doctors specially in the simple case of cough and colds and we would directly go to the nearest botika to buy what's available to relieve us of our ailments. In light of all the issues surrounding the laxity in dispensing our drugs, we must always take caution in buying and taking medicines.

Original article here: Safety Issues: What's in my medicine? (Propyphenazone and Phenylpropanolamine)

Do you know Saridon? Is it Effective or not?

We must search for the best medicines to provide pain relief of  body aches and headaches. I didn’t do this for the past years because I just took famous name of paracetamol medicines. But after I survived an operation (with Brain Anuerysm)  last year, I always do research for the best medicines to take on the times of headaches and body aches. 

Saridon is an analgesic specially made for treating headaches. It is the headache specialist because it is specifically formulated to target persistent headaches. It provides fast and effective relief from mild to severe headaches. Saridon’s unique formula enables it to provide significant pain relief in as fast as 15 minutes. Studies have shown that Saridon is more effective than individual doses of ibuprofen, paracetamol and aspirin.

Each Saridon tablet contains: 

Paracetamol   (250 mg) - Paracetamol helps reduce fever and pain while providing long lasting relief. 

Propyphenazone (150 mg) - Propyphenazone is an anti-inflammatory used to treat mild to moderate pain, like headaches, quickly. 

Caffeine (50 mg) - Caffeine, when combined with other analgesics, improves their effects.

Paracetamol, Propyphenazone and Caffeine work together. Propyphenazone and Paracetamol are ingredients that provide pain relief. They complement each other well because Propyphenazone works quickly but loses its effect fast, while Paracetamol takes effect slowly but a has a longer lasting effect. The 3rd ingredient, Caffeine improves the effects of the other two ingredients. With it, the analgesics work better by 41%. 

It is said that Saridon works faster and provides better pain relief than Paracetamol, Ibuprofen and Aspirin.

I read an article about Saridon written by Janette Toral in the Sunstar Cebu titled Toral : Drug Safety. The article is specifically about a medicine for headaches. As I continue my research on Saridon, here something caught my interest. True that this is an important matter for us all. Saridon alledgedly being unsafe, due to one of its ingredient, propyphenazone that may have side effects. Medicines should restricted on specific cases.

There are countries like , Malaysia, Korea, Sri Lanka and Turkey, Saridon medicine which has Propyphenazone content is now banned.  But here in the Philippines, it's still available.

I have read articles with complains andn worries about this medicine - Saridon. 

(Read this: http://www.duckyparedes.com/blogs/2010/07/20/mag-ingat-sa-saridon/)

I searched for more thru Youtube. I will continue to find answers to our worries for our health.

I hope that Department of Health and Bayer provide us more information about the propyphenazone ban in other countries and why it's available in the Philippines. This is a public health matter. 

Source: Do you know Saridon? Is it Effective or not?

Saridon: An Appeal for Illumination

I suffer from terrible migraine attacks. In fact, just last weekend, I had what I think is my worst migraine attack ever. Why is that? Well, the throbbing pain on my head started Saturday morning and lasted until last night! Yes, three days of excruciating pain. You're probably wondering why I "allowed" the condition to last that long. The fact is I immediately took three Ibuprofen caplets to manage the pain. A mere 250mg caplet no longer works for me. The dosage needs to be at least 750mg to 1000mg. The pain subsided... for a short while (or at least, while I was sleeping).

The following morning, I woke up to a throbbing pain at the base of my neck the crept upward to my skull. I felt as if the throbbing was crushing my brain. I wanted to look for an alternative to the Ibuprofen caplets I had. I was contemplating on taking Saridon, hoping it can help relieve me of the pain. I remember Saridon from an informative article about the dynamics of medicine promotion and advertisements I read online. Normally, I take Excedrin Migraine® for the worst cases of migraine. I take two 500mg caplets, and in as short as 30 minutes, the pain is gone. However, I opted to look for an alternative because I noticed that lately, a bad case of heartburn immediately follows after the medicines have taken effect.

Anyway, I tried to look for more information about Saridon. This is actually something I always do - read information about a medicine I would be taking - because it's better to be safe than sorry. I wanted to find out if it could relieve migraine headaches. Instead, I stumbled upon a well-written article or argument, if you may, about the safety of Saridon. Apparently, it contains 135 mg of propyphenazone, 260 mg of paracetamol and 55 mg of caffeine, and while I know that paracetamol is a pain reliever and caffeine serves as a pain reliever aid (Excedrin Migraine® actually contains 65mg of caffeine), I had no idea what propyphenazone is. The latter is a derivative of phenazone, which means several chemical components of phenazone can be found in propyphenazone.

Bayer Philippines, Inc. is the company behind Saridon's release in the Philippines. They say that this very efficient analgesic has been around for quite some time already and has become popular for being one of the fastest painkillers in the market. The medicine has a strong following in the Vis-Min regions, but it hasn't gone all out on a nationwide scale. Why is that? According to reports, the purported banning of the medicine has a lot to do with it. Currently, Saridon is banned in Korea, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Malaysia, and Thailand. They point to the adverse effects of Saridon especially to pregnant women. It's also considered the culprit behind severe cases of drug-induced blood dyscrasias, hypersensitivity reactions, nephrotoxicity, nausea, drowsiness, coma, and convulsions when taken in large doses.

After reading the articles of Ms. Janette Toral about Saridon, its efficacy, its banning, and its supposed side effects, I did a double take. Rather than buy Saridon, I relied on my trusted migraine medicine. Fortunately, my migraine has ceased. I am now relieved. However, I am still wondering about the true status of Saridon. With propyphenazone as its main ingredient, is it safe as its manufacturer claims it to be? Should I be wary of it? I am calling out to the Department of Health and Bayer Philippines, Inc. to shed light on this issue. I think every Filipino deserves to know.

Source: Saridon: An Appeal for Illumination

Is Saridon Safe for Intake?

Last night as I was scanning my FB wall with my me time and an article about a drug for headache caught my attention. I was curious because the brand name is now commercially available in the market and has a catchy commercial on national TV. The article came from Sunstar.com.ph of  Ms. Janette Toral questioning if Saridon is safe for intake. Saridon has a 150 mg of Propyphenazone ingredient in it and claims that it will take away headache in just 15 minutes.

Ms. Toral is worried about this ingredient because it was already banned outside of the country and why it passed the BFAD and DOH approval. When we know it was banned for sure that it was lethal and it’s not good for our health, so how come this drug is available in our country (Philippines) and as affordable as the generic one? Can we take a risk to know that our fellows, our families and our friends might purchase the said drug and risk their health?

I know I’m not an expert about this matter but what’s important to me is the safety and health of my family. But Saridon’s formula contained phenacetin known to be carcinogenic or can cause cancer with prolong used. And Propyphenazone has a component of this, an NSAID or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug like aspirin that if taken excessively can cause bleeding. And if you watch CSI series in Las Vegas you can encountered there that a suspect use this drug to slowly killed her husband, so I say that Saridon is really fatal.

Saridon's catchy commercial on National TV

And if I were you I’ll stay away with this drug and stick to what we already use like paracetamol, ibuprofen or mefenamic acid though any drug has a side effect at least these drug has a lesser negative review unlike Saridon that’s becoming to be a legal killer sitting on the shelves of pharmacy stores.

I hoped that BFAD and DOH will issue a statement regarding the safety of Saridon as a painkiller or (I say life killer), and also to Bayer who manufactured such drugs that risks health over their damn business.

Check out the link below for more info about Saridon :

1. http://www.patientsville.com/medication/saridon_side_effects.htm

2. http://healthmad.com/medicine/saridon-side-effects/

3. http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_side_effects_of_saridon

4. http://www.eccentricyethappy.info/2012/11/is-saridon-safe.html
5. http://www.awahmslife.net/2012/11/is-saridon-safe-or-not.html

Source: Is Saridon Safe for Intake?

Saridon, Propyphenazone: Painkiller or Blood Killer?

Sometimes, what causes headaches are medicines for headaches themselves. Say for instance Saridon, an international brand from Bayer Healthcare which until now is being subjected to safety debates around the world (Saridon is even more popular than Barbra Streisand nowadays).

Is Saridon safe or not? Is its Propyphenazone component out of harm's way or not?

(Just a note to our readers: we are not dealing with the drug’s effectiveness since we all know that studies unanimously back the drug’s usefulness).

Saridon, which is available in over 80 countries including the Philippines, contains 250 mg of Paracetamol, 150 mg of Propyphenazone, and 50 mg of Caffeine. The three ingredients complement each other in easing the pain in the head. But I tell you, the three won’t work if it is your unsuccessful marriage that is causing you headache.

Notably, Saridon contains Propyphenazone (also known as Propyphenazonum (Latin), Propyphenazon (German), Propyphénazone (French), and Propifenazona (Spanish). Propyphenazone has been associated with severe blood dyscrasias (symptoms include bleeding problems, weakness and pale skin). Mama mia! Apay ngay nga ada kasta gayam? (Why is there something like that?)

Digital Filipino’s Janete Toral revealed this disturbing issue in SunStar, after she received messages questioning the drug’s safety. Take note that in the Philippines, the drug is still available at about P5 per tablet.

In South Korea, its Food and Drug Administration banned Bayer Korea’s painkiller Saridon-A from being prescribed or sold over the counter to 15 and below. Moreover, products containing Prophyphenazone have been banned in countries like Turkey.

In an article from The Filipino Doctor, it was nailed that Saridon should not be given to infants or children under 12. It was also recommended that the drug should not be taken by pregnant women (women, men and others, take note of that).

It may be true that Saridon is FDA-approved. But we still need clarification from Bayer. We need a statement from our Department of Health (DOH) to assure us that what we are using is safe.

I know that there is no drug that is 100% safe, but we should know what we needed to know. There is nothing wrong to sit down one time with the authority and discuss about the terrible side effects of the drug. (Learn more thoughts about this)

Is there any medical practitioner out there who can give us some clarifications regarding this matter? Before we believe in advertisements, let us listen to the real authority first. 

 

Source:  Saridon, Propyphenazone: Painkiller or Blood Killer?

Saridon and It’s Safety Issue

I have been reading up a couple of online posts about this drug Saridon which is said to provide fast acting relief from headaches.  Based from the website The Filipino Doctor, it provides instant relief from headache in as fast as 15 minutes and is trusted worldwide in over 80 countries.  It seems that it is also the most popular  choice of medicine for headache in the Visayas and Mindanao regions  as it is relatively cheap compared to other analgesic medicines. Saridon contains three active ingredients: Paracetamol (250 mg.), Propyphenazone (150 mg), and Caffeine  (50 mg.). This triple action formula makes it better than individual doses of paracetamol and Ibuprofen for some.

photo source: googleimages.com

But then there have been quite a number of posts  now questioning the safe use this drug due to one of  its active ingredient, Propyphenazone (Propyphenazone is structurally related to aminophenazone, a drug highly associated with severe blood dyscrasias).  According to Mr. Ducky Paredes in his recent blogpost on Saridon, Lareb, a Dutch Pharmacovigilance Center, cited 20 harmful effects of Saridon  ten of which are being said to cause nausea, fainting, low blood pressure, weakening of the heart, and worst even death. Ms. Janette Toral in her column dated Oct. 30 at sunstar.com.ph also mentioned that countries such as  Sri Lanka, Korea, Malaysia and Turkey have banned and restricted the use of Saridon. This makes me wonder then if extensive studies here in the Philippines have been done prior to its approval.
 
I was trying to search online for statements from DOH and Bayer clarifying the issue but did not find any. The one link I found which would direct me to the official statement and explanation of a Dr. Abola of Bayer, appeared to have been taken down from the net.  Unless there is a clear reference whether online or in print, where people can elevate their concerns or where Bayer and DOH can issue official statements to alleviate  people’s fears and doubts, the big shadow of doubt about its safe use will continue to persist.

After doing my own online research, I completely understand the hype about Saridon. I have close family and friends who suffer from migraines, I shudder at the thought that they might be taking this drug whose safety is in big question. According to Wikipedia, Saridon is the only pain medication in the country that has three active ingredients, and the only one listing caffeine as one of its ingredients. All the more that people should be careful in taking this without official clarification from DOH or Bayer. There’s much to be said about combination drugs.

Keeping this note open for official  response from the DOH and Bayer. As of the moment, they are still mum on the issue. Will update this as soon as I get hold of their official statements.

Source:  Saridon and It’s Safety Issue

Think First before Taking Saridon

The Wikipedia says “Saridon is an analgesic combination indicated for the management of headache. The currently global base formulation contains 135mg of propyphenazone, 260 mg of paracetamol and 55 mg of caffeine.

The combination is designed and said to produce effective analgesia with fast onset of action in 15 minutes, as compared to paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin alone”

As far as I remember the TV and online ad of Saridon has adult scenes. However, I read an article online that Saridon is safe to take. I wonder what Department of Health would explain about Saridon.

The last time I ran a 42KM run I felt pain so I took a pain reliever but I didn’t try to take Saridon as a remedy. I had Alaxan instead.

Why? I am so scared of the possible side effects it might cause.

Saridon is prescribed to relieve diferent pains: migraine pain, persistent headache, muscle ache, arthritis pain, backache, dental troubles, common cold and fever.

It also relieves minor arthritis without decreasing the inflammation or swelling of the joints.

Saridon is banned in Sri Lanka, Korea, Malaysia and Turkey. because it has Propyphenazone content.
But it is available in drugstores here in the Philippines.

How hazardous is Propyphenazone? Propyphenazone is derived from pyrazolone and is related to phenazone. It has antipyretic and analgesic properties.

According to some of my friends who is into pharmaceutical field Saridon is accessible to drug stores nationwide.

There are side effects people should know before buting Saridon it includes;
nausea, low fever, vomiting, stomach ache, loss of appetite, dark urine, tarry stool, yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Plus there are allergic reactions, chest pain, difficulty in breathing, swelling of the throat, lips, tongue and face.

As a matter of fact I’ve seen some blogs which has ads of Saridon. It means it is very well promoted here in the Philippines

Saridon is sold at very affordable price here. DOH and Bayer should do something about this.
Saridon, Is it Safe?


Source: Think First before Taking Saridon

Is Saridon safe?

Few months ago, I posted a blog post about the TV ad of Saridon which has inappropriate scenes. But I read an article recently online about how safe to take Saridon.
I'm still confused on what Bayer and Department of Health on their explanation about Saridon.

I always experienced migraine every now and then, and I didn't try to take Saridon as a remedy. I'm scared of the side effects that I read articles online.


What is Saridon?  

According to Wikipedia, "Saridon is an analgesic combination indicated for the management of headache. The currently global base formulation contains 135mg of propyphenazone, 260 mg of paracetamol and 55 mg of caffeine.The combination is designed and said to produce effective analgesia with fast onset of action in 15 minutes, as compared to paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin alone"

It is used to relief migraine pain, headache, muscle ache, arthritis pain, backache, dental troubles, common cold and fever. Also relieves from minor arthritis pain but doesn’t decrease inflammation or swelling of the joints.

There's a lot of countries banned the said medicine, which has Propyphenazone content. But here in the Philippines, it's still available in pharmaceutical stores.

How hazardous it is?  

According to MIMS, Propyphenazone is derived from pyrazolone and is related to phenazone. It has antipyretic and analgesic properties.

I asked my sister, who is a licensed pharmacist if Saridon still available in the market. She told me that it is accessible to drug stores nationwide.

There are side effects taking Saridon includes nausea, low fever, vomiting, stomach ache, loss of appetite, dark urine, tarry stool, yellowing of the skin or eyes. And also there are allergic reactions, chest pain, and difficulty in breathing, swelling of the throat, lips, tongue and face.

Why Department of Health and Bayer not restricted using Saridon in the country?
In Sri Lanka, Korea, Malaysia and Turkey, medicine intake of Saridon is banned in these countries. Yet why is it our country didn't ban it.

I think, DOH and its manufacturer must take action on this. Though Saridon sold at a very affordable price yet they must review Propyphenazone as an ingredient for this analgesic tablet.

Source:  Is Saridon safe? 

Why Choose Saridon? Is it Safe or Should We Be Worried?

Earlier I read about this so called new drug now available in the Philippine market (well at least its popular in Visayas and Mindanao) and they're calling it "Saridon". They say it's actually priced very competitively compared to the leading brands, and quite almost near the generics price. But how come the medicine started out in the provinces and not in Metro Manila or even Luzon?

Another strange thing is there's not enough info to give you an informative knowledge of the said medicine and lastly, I've also been reading bad feedback or articles from certain columnists especially in the said Visayas and Mindanao areas - that is - if you try Googling about this particular brand.

This probably led to the creation of this article in SunStar which worries about the negative write-ups about the drug....and wonders why Bayer and The Department of Health (DOH) is not really that eager to educate the people about the drug....or am I just really out of the loop.



But what really caught my attention was the ads:

However, the pictures are like saying you are giving yourself a headache.....hehehe


If you Google about the brand, Wikipedia tops the list:

"Saridon is an analgesic combination indicated for the management of headache. The currently global base formulation contains 135 mg of propyphenazone, 260 mg of paracetamol and 55 mg of caffeine. The combination is designed and said to produce effective analgesia with fast onset of action in 15 minutes, as compared to paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin alone."


With emphasis on propyphenazone because , apparently, this particular ingredient is banned in other countries:


Propyphenazone, a pyrazolone derivative with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity, was introduced in 1951 for the treatment of rheumatic disorders. As it is structurally related to aminophenazone it has been associated with severe blood dyscrasias. However, it cannot be transformed into potentially carcinogenic nitrosamines and has therefore been widely used as a replacement drug for aminophenazone. In certain countries, products containing propyphenazone have now been restricted in their indications, whereas in others they are still available, sometimes as over-the-counter preparations.”


Countries that have banned Propyphenazone:

Sri Lanka, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, and Turkey


But I've seen a link to a YouTube video of one of its commercials:

I saw information about Saridon at thefilipinodoctor.com website:Notice that the top banner advertises about Saridon. If you go further in by clicking on the banner, its gives you details about the drug and a video link as well.

"Saridon is an analgesic specially formulated to treat severe headache in as fast as 15 minutes.Each Saridon tablet contains Paracetamol, Propyphenazone and Caffeine, a unique combination that provides effective and long lasting pain relief."


The video description is:

"Saridon launches nationwide with a new hard-hitting TV commercial depicting what it feels like to work while nursing a persistent headache - a situation which many people can identify with."

I don't really find the video funny but knowing Filipinos and our thinking, we may actually try it out.


The site also has this" Why Choose Saridon?" portion:

But I don't really just really on obvious biased advertising so I look for other articles and preferred columns or blogs like this one from searchinfluencer.com .




Another blog called the drug as "poison"




"The original formula for Saridon contained a phenacetin, a carcinogenic or cancer causing substance. A component of this was Propyphenazone. It is an NSAID or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory  drug like aspirin. So if taken excessively can cause bleeding. Since this is an over the counter drug, only a few people know about this fact. This is also contraindicated for ages 12 years old and below."

It got me thinking otherwise of the probable ill- effects of the new drug and its "special" ingredients which side-effects are kept hidden from us. Got me thinking why the drug is being banned in other countries.



Is it just paranoia to worry?

Now unless the government, specifically the DOH and the Bureau of Food and Drug (BFAD), whoever is directly responsible, gives us a more reliable source of verifiable information or study about the drug, then its like trusting a brand that could give us more adverse effects rather than cure.


Would I allow myself to be treated by  a drug that doesn't even have any specific website available for prospective consumers to research info about it?



Positive feedback from other bloggers

Also read a blog post dated February 2012 with positive feedback about Saridon, but still how come there's still no website from the makers themselves. Should I rely on a few blogs for my medicinal requirements?

Another blogger recommends, and noting the inclusion of caffeine as another ingredient, saying on his blog:

"I’m convinced to the formulation of Saridon and thanks to Bayer for introducing this new drug to us pinoys. I don’t take any tablets for headaches in my life ( I know the other brand, but I take them if ever I’m sick), but Saridon is purely for headaches only and I’m glad that I got introduced to Bayer’s new drug."


"I did a research and learned that Caffeine is proven a neuro-stimulant and also as a metabollic stimulant. Caffeine is very addictive,especially to people who started drinking coffee every morning and afternoon. I also drink coffee every morning and this keeps me awake and oriented for the day that I woke up, I drink coffee to relax myself while working. I read online that caffeine is also a mild natural analgesic, meaning that the elders we were told about to drink coffee if we have headaches is really true.

So when caffeine - the mild natural analgesic combines with Paracetamol and Propyphenazone, it will have Saridon tablet as the fast acting headache and pain reliever."

There's another blogger who has something to say about the product. Read all about it on his blog.


So I guess some are very much impressed with the product and some are wary of the side-effects and the health dangers it may produce.



But it still does not answer my question if Propyphenazone is safe or not...and should we be worried?

Well, I do hope the DOH or BFAD releases an announcement soon otherwise there would still be people like me doubtful of the product. bayer should include information about the product on their website, and exert effort to make the information "searchable" online for us consumers.

 

Source:  Why Choose Saridon? Is it Safe or Should We Be Worried?

Saridon is Poison

Just recently I was browsing through the racks at a pharmacy and I was wondering why there was a proliferation of drugs with a generic name that includes caffeine. The last time that I took up pharmacology and had my tour of duty, this was not part of the things I needed to memorize for my revalida.

Here in the Philippines, paracetamol, ibuprofen, mefenamic acid and aspirin are the most common antidote for headaches and pains. Then you pair this with betet, Vick's or White Flower. Whichever floats your boat.

When I saw an article about Saridon written by Janette Toral, I got curious. Turns out Saridon contains 250 mg Paracetamol, 150 mg Propyphenazone and 50 mg Caffeine more specifically Saridon is the most potent headache or migraine reliever around. It claims to rid you of your pain in just 15 minutes!

Propyphenazone is the first substance to be activated. This gives an immediate analgesic effect. The paracetamol prolongs its efficacy while caffeine increases its potency since it is a natural analgesic. Not only is it used as an analgesic, it is also a muscle relaxant and antipyretic.

The original formula for Saridon contained a phenacetin, a carcinogenic or cancer causing substance. A component of this was Propyphenazone. It is an NSAID or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory  drug like aspirin. So if taken excessively can cause bleeding. Since this is an over the counter drug, only a few people know about this fact. This is also contraindicated for ages 12 years old and below. Paracetamol is also hepatotoxic. This can cause liver damage when used in excess or when paired with alchohol.

There have been documented reports by medical watchdogs of how toxic this drug can be but if you do an online search you will only find diziness, shortness of breath and fainting as one of its side effects. Is there more that we don't know of?

Another controversy that surrounds this drug is its prevalent use in our country despite other nations banning it. If other countries are banning the use of this drug why is the Philippines actively promoting it? It is also interesting to note that this product was initially actively promoted, distributed and sold in Visayas and Mindanao. Why is it not being sold in Luzon? Are we here in the Visayas and Mindanao their guinea pigs? Are they testing us without our knowledge? Where is the morality in all these?

Another issue with this drug is Bayers lack of information and internet presence of this drug, except of course  the negative ones. DOH,BFAD and Bayer has the social responsibility of informing us, the consuming public of the results of clinical trials done on this drug.

What is the government doing about Saridon?

Just imagine all the trouble it will cause if you buy this drug without knowing these facts.  It is just right that this  product from Bayer be banned from the market.

Source: Saridon is Poison

Is Saridon safe?

Do you take meds when you have headache? Or you just sleep it away to get rid of it? Do you think it is really effective? There is very little information about the safety and effectiveness of Saridon.


Photo from blog-ph.com

 

What is Saridon? According to wikipedia, Saridon is an analgesic combination indicated for the management of headache. The currently global base formulation contains 135 mg of propyphenazone, 260 mg of paracetamol and 55 mg of caffeine. The combination is designed and said to produce effective analgesia with fast onset of action in 15 minutes, as compared to paracetamol, ibuprofen, or aspirin alone.

I have read a discussion about this topic and got very curious about one of its content that appears to be unsafe - propyphenazone. In its advertisements, this drug is being marketed as clinically proven safe, and effective pain reliever for headache, toothache, and even muscle pain. This pain killer distributed by Bayer is now reaching our country  (especially in Visayas and Mindanao) and is being sold in a very affordable price.

A lot of questions popped into my mind when this drug has been banned in some countries like Sri Lanka, Korea, Malaysia, and Turkey. If this drug is really safe, then, why was it banned to some countries?

I have researched and found an article which lists the hazards of this drug:


Nausea, low fever, vomiting, stomach ache, loss of appetite, dark urine, tarry stool, yellowing of the skin or eyes. And also there are allergic reactions, chest pain, and difficulty in breathing, swelling of the throat, lips, tongue and face.

For me, everything you take in excess is bad. Drugs should be avoided as much as possible. It would be alarming if this is really harmful and being sold here in the Philippines, where there's a big tendency of people who would choose to buy affordable drugs. DOH and the manufacturer should take action on this as this might affect the health of the many. I would also appreciate if the manufacturer would release more information about this drug online so that potential users can make their own research first before using the product.

 

Source: Is Saridon safe?

Toral: Drug safety

ONCE in a while, I receive SMS and email communication from various anonymous sources alerting me of scams, political messages and product commentaries. One text message that caught my attention in 2010 was about Saridon allegedly being unsafe, due to one of its ingredient, propyphenazone that may have side effects. I searched online but I was not able to find substantive info that would sufficiently contradict articles published at that time. I blogged about my findings and suggestions to Department of Health then at http://bit.ly/saridon.

In my presentation last to a pharmaceutical firm, I once again stumbled upon Saridon, this time for its ads. I found them to be humorous but not suggested for viewing by minors. I also commented on how various brands are using online and TV advertising to generate awareness and engagement. It also amused me on how they attack each other and make insinuation on the safety of competitor products. This is especially true for cough medicine. I blogged about this at http://bit.ly/medicinepromo.

However, this last blog post caught more attention than I expected. I got a private message saying my 2010 mention of propyphenazone safety as still an issue. Its Wikipedia entry said the ingredient is banned or restricted in some countries like Sri Lanka, Korea, Malaysia and Turkey.

Now I am more confused on this, especially on how medicines should be restricted on specific cases. For instance, the website Filipino Doctor (http://saridon.thefilipinodoctor.com/faq.php) listed some information about the medicine and indicated pregnancy risk and intake prescription depending on age. The Saridon Wikipedia page cited an age ban for Korea, with those 15 years old and below not allowed to take the medication.

In its advertisements, which discuss how people who work hard may be subject to intense pain, safety concerns for pregnant women and young people should be communicated clearly, including in its Facebook fan page.

Maybe I am just naïve but it is unsettling to see a drug or its ingredient banned in other countries but allowed here and sold at a very affordable price. I just hope the savings in terms of price will not lead to health issues because of uniformed people taking the medication.

To Bayer and Department of Health, I will very much appreciate more information about the propyphenazone ban in other countries and why it doesn’t apply in the Philippines. I will be happy to write a column about it if information is given.

(http://digitalfilipino.com)

Source: Toral: Drug safety