Nolotil in Spain: What Visitors Should Know
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Pedro Yelamo Vera, MD
Licensed Physician No. 484814280 · Official Medical College of Bizkaia (Spain)Last reviewed: 2 October 2026
Nolotil is metamizole, a strong painkiller prescribed in Spain and not licensed in the UK or US. What it is for and the warning signs to act on.
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Nolotil is metamizole (also called dipyrone), a strong painkiller and fever reducer. It is not an anti-inflammatory, and it is not licensed in the UK or the US.
- What it is used for: moderate to severe short-term pain, such as after an operation, an injury or renal colic, and high fever that does not respond to other medicines.
- The risk to know about: in rare cases it causes a dangerous drop in white blood cells (agranulocytosis). If you develop fever, a sore throat or mouth ulcers while taking it, stop and seek medical care immediately.
- Check first if: you have reacted to it before, have a bone marrow problem, low blood pressure, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Tell the doctor that you are visiting Spain and when you leave, so follow-up can be planned.
- Do you need a prescription? Yes.
This is general information and does not replace the package leaflet or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. If you need an assessment, you can book a video consultation or read about back pain. This service is for urgent, non-emergency care; in an emergency, call 112.
Medical Citations & Sources
This content is written and reviewed by a licensed physician with reference to the following official health authorities.
