Alclofenac

Alclofenac

Alclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that was primarily used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. It was developed in the 1960s by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer and was marketed under the brand name Alcifon.

Pharmacology

Alclofenac acts by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. By inhibiting COX, alclofenac reduces the levels of prostaglandins, thereby reducing inflammation and pain.

Clinical Use

Alclofenac was primarily used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. It was also used to relieve pain and inflammation in other conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis and acute gout.

Side Effects

Like other NSAIDs, alclofenac can cause a range of side effects. The most common side effects include gastrointestinal problems, such as stomach ulcers, gastritis, and bleeding. Other side effects can include liver damage, kidney damage, and allergic reactions.

Withdrawal

Alclofenac was withdrawn from the market in many countries due to concerns about its safety, particularly its potential to cause serious liver damage. In some cases, this liver damage was severe enough to require a liver transplant.

See Also

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Pfizer

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