Flurbiprofen

Indications

Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of Flurbiprofen and other treatment options before deciding to use Flurbiprofen . Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.

Flurbiprofen is indicated:
  • For relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • For relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Pharmacology

Flurbiprofen inhibits prostaglandin synthesis by decreasing the activity of cyclooxygenase resulting in reduced prostaglandin levels. It is also a potent inhibitor of platelet aggregation.

Dosage

After observing the response to initial therapy with Flurbiprofen , the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient's needs. For relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, the recommended starting dose of Flurbiprofen is 200 to 300 mg per day, divided for administration two, three, or four times a day. The largest recommended single dose in a multiple-dose daily regimen is 100 mg.

Administration

Should be taken with food.

Interaction

Reduced antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor antagonists and β-blockers. Slight reduction in blood glucose concentration in patients with DM receiving certain antidiabetic agents (e.g. glyburide, metformin). Reduced diuretic effect of furosemide and thiazides. May increase toxicity of lithium and methotrexate. May increase risk of bleeding with antiplatelets, anticoagulants, SSRIs, corticosteroids.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to flurbiprofen, history of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions precipitated by aspirin or other NSAIDs, NSAID-related history of GI bleeding or perforation, treatment of perioperative pain in the setting of CABG surgery. Pregnancy (3rd trimester) and lactation.

Side Effects

Oedema, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, dyspepsia/heartburn, liver enzyme elevations, flatulence, nausea, vomiting, wt change, headache, nervousness, CNS stimulation (e.g. anxiety), CNS inhibition (e.g. somnolence), rhinitis, vision changes, dizziness/vertigo, tinnitus, signs and symptoms of UTI, rash. Ocular hyperaemia, eye irritation, fibrosis, miosis, mydriasis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category C. Either studies in animals have revealed adverse effects on the foetus (teratogenic or embryocidal or other) and there are no controlled studies in women or studies in women and animals are not available. Drugs should be given only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus.

Precautions & Warnings

Patients with known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease, fluid retention. Hepatic and renal impairment. Lactation.

Overdose Effects

Symptoms: Headache, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, GI bleeding, diarrhoea, disorientation, excitation, coma, drowsiness, dizziness, tinnitus, fainting and occasionally convulsions, acute renal failure and liver damage.

Management: Supportive and symptomatic treatment. Admin activated charcoal w/in 1 hr after ingestion. In adults, gastric lavage should be considered.

Therapeutic Class

Drugs for Osteoarthritis, Drugs used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Storage Conditions

Store between 15-25° C.

Available Brand Names