Pelubiprofen

Introduction

Generic Name: Pelubiprofen
Brand Names: Pelubi®, Peludo®
Chemical Formula: C₁₅H₁₃FO₃

Pelubiprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used for its potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Belonging to the propionic acid derivative class of NSAIDs it is commonly prescribed to manage the musculoskeletal pain and inflammation, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This drug is approved and marketed only in a few countries.

Mechanism of Action

Pelubiprofen works by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, (COX-1 and COX-2), these enzymes play an important role in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are the lipid compounds that contribute to pain, inflammation, and fever. By blocking the prostaglandin synthesis, Pelubiprofen effectively reduces the inflammation and provides relief from pain.

Uses

Pelubiprofen is used to treat conditions associated with pain and inflammation:

Osteoarthritis

Pelubiprofen is usually prescribed for the management of pain and inflammation related to osteoarthritis. It helps to decrease the joint stiffness and improve mobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Pelubiprofen is used to decrease the joint pain and inflammation which delays the progression of joint damage and provides symptomatic improvement in patients.

Other Musculoskeletal Pain

Pelubiprofen may also be used to treat painful conditions, such as tendinitis, bursitis, and sports injuries. The anti-inflammatory properties of this drug help to reduce the swelling and provide some relief from the acute pain.

Postoperative Pain

In addition to other uses, sometimes doctors may prescribe Pelubiprofen to control postoperative pain and inflammation that occurs after minor surgeries.

Dosage

Pelubiprofen is usually taken orally, and the dosage varies depending on the individual patient’s condition and medical history:

Adults:

The standard dose for adults with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis is 30-60 mg twice daily.

Elderly Patients:

As with most NSAIDs, special caution is required when prescribing Pelubiprofen to elderly patients due to their increased risk of gastrointestinal and renal complications.

Side Effects

While Pelubiprofen is generally well-tolerated, it can still cause side effects, especially when used for long term therapy. There is a risk of increase in the side effects with age and in individuals who have different pre-existing health conditions.

Some Common Side Effects:

Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, indigestion, stomach pain
Dizziness
Headaches

Serious Side Effects: Here a re some of the serious side effects:

Gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers
Kidney damage
Increased cardiovascular risk

Contraindications

Pelubiprofen is contraindicated in certain populations, which includes:

Patients having a history of gastrointestinal bleeding, peptic ulcers or certain GIT disorders.
Individuals having severe renal impairment or having hepatic disease.
Patients who are allergic to NSAIDs.
Pregnant women who are in the third trimester.

Drug Interactions

As with other NSAIDs, Pelubiprofen can also interact with different medications, leading to altered efficacy or elevated risk of side effects, here are a few of the interactions:

Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): There is an increased risk of bleeding with concomitant administration.
ACE inhibitors and ARBs: Altered efficacy in controlling the blood pressure.
Diuretics: Elevated risk of kidney damage.
Corticosteroids: Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
SSRIs: Heightened risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Patients taking any of these medications should consult their healthcare provider before taking Pelubiprofen.

Special Considerations

Pregnancy and Lactation

Pregnancy: Pelubiprofen must be avoided during pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester because of risk of its possible harm to fetus.
Lactation: Although there is limited information available about the excretion of this drug in breast milk. It is necessary and recommended to consult a doctor before its use during breastfeeding.

Elderly Patients

Elderly patients are at greater risk for the gastrointestinal and renal side effects. Hence lower effective doses with regular monitoring of kidney and liver function is advised in such patients.

Surgery

Pelubiprofen should be used with caution in patients who are undergoing surgery, as like some other NSAIDs it may also increase the risk of bleeding due to its blood thinning property.

Warnings and Precautions

Gastrointestinal Risks:
Although this drug is relatively safer on the GI tract compared to some of the NSAIDs, it may still cause ulcers and bleeding in the GIT, especially in high-risk patients. Long-term use of Pelubiprofen increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and perforation in the GIT, particularly in elderly patients and those with a history of gastrointestinal disease.
Cardiovascular Risks:
Like other NSAIDs, this drug may also increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, especially during long-term use or in the patients with pre-existing heart and related conditions.
Kidney Function:
Patients with kidney disease or those at risk of developing kidney problems must be carefully monitored while using Pelubiprofen. Long-term use of this drug may alter the function of the kidneys, this risk is elevated in patients with pre-existing renal conditions.

Other considerations for Pelubiprofen:

Take with food: To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort, the patient should take Pelubiprofen with food or with a glass of water.
Avoid alcohol: Consumption of alcohol while taking Pelubiprofen may lead to the increase in the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

When to Contact a Doctor

Patients should be advised to consult their healthcare provider if they experience the following:

Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as black, tarry stools or vomiting of blood
Unexplained swelling or weight gain, which could indicate kidney problems
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives
Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing, which could signal a cardiovascular problem.

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