Acemetacin

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Acemetacin

Acemetacin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and other inflammatory conditions. It is a prodrug, which is metabolized in the body to indomethacin, an active compound with potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties.

Pharmacology

Acemetacin is a glycolic acid ester of indomethacin. After oral administration, it is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The drug is then metabolized in the liver to indomethacin and other metabolites, which are primarily excreted in the urine.

The anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of acemetacin are due to the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins play a key role in the inflammatory response, and their inhibition leads to a reduction in inflammation and pain.

Clinical Use

Acemetacin is used for the symptomatic treatment of various inflammatory conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also used for the management of acute gout, bursitis, tendinitis, and other painful conditions.

The drug is generally well tolerated, but like other NSAIDs, it can cause gastrointestinal side effects, including dyspepsia, nausea, and peptic ulcer disease. Rarely, it can cause serious side effects such as gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatotoxicity, and renal impairment.

Contraindications

Acemetacin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug or other NSAIDs. It should not be used in patients with active peptic ulcer disease, severe heart failure, or severe liver or kidney disease. The drug is also contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in the fetus.

See Also

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
• Indomethacin
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis