Flurbiprofen sodium

Flurbiprofen sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation. It is a sodium salt form of flurbiprofen, which is a derivative of propionic acid.

Pharmacology

Flurbiprofen sodium works by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes are responsible for the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, which are mediators of inflammation and pain. By reducing the production of prostaglandins, flurbiprofen sodium alleviates symptoms of inflammation such as swelling, pain, and fever.

Mechanism of Action

Flurbiprofen sodium is a non-selective inhibitor of the COX enzymes. It binds to the active site of the COX enzymes, preventing the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin H2, the precursor of other prostaglandins and thromboxanes. This action reduces the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators.

Pharmacokinetics

Flurbiprofen sodium is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract when administered orally. It has a high protein binding rate of approximately 99%, primarily to albumin. The drug is metabolized in the liver via cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP2C9, and is excreted primarily in the urine. The elimination half-life of flurbiprofen sodium is approximately 3 to 6 hours.

Clinical Uses

Flurbiprofen sodium is used in the management of various conditions associated with pain and inflammation. These include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Postoperative pain
• Dysmenorrhea

Adverse Effects

Common adverse effects of flurbiprofen sodium include gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, and gastric ulceration. Other potential side effects include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Edema
• Hypertension
• Rash

Serious adverse effects may include gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and hepatic dysfunction.

Contraindications

Flurbiprofen sodium is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to flurbiprofen or other NSAIDs
• History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
• Active peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding
• Severe heart failure

Interactions

Flurbiprofen sodium may interact with other medications, including:

• Anticoagulants such as warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding
• Antihypertensive drugs, potentially reducing their efficacy
• Diuretics, which may have reduced effectiveness
• Lithium, leading to increased serum lithium levels

Special Populations

Pregnancy and Lactation

Flurbiprofen sodium is classified as pregnancy category C. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not recommended during the third trimester due to the risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus.

Pediatric Use

The safety and efficacy of flurbiprofen sodium in pediatric patients have not been established.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may be at greater risk for adverse effects, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding and renal impairment. Caution is advised when prescribing flurbiprofen sodium to this population.

See Also

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
• Cyclooxygenase
• Prostaglandin

External Links

• Drugs.com: Flurbiprofen
• MedlinePlus: Flurbiprofen