Flurbiprofen

Products

Flurbiprofen is commercially available as dragées (Froben) and as flurbiprofen lozenges and spray (Strepsils Dolo, generics). It has been approved in many countries since 1977.

Structure and properties

Flurbiprofen (C₁₅H₁₃FO₂, M_r = 244.2 g/mol) is a racemate and exists as a white crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water. Flurbiprofen, like the structurally related ibuprofen, belongs to the group of propionic acid and phenylalkyl derivatives. It is a fluorinated biphenyl. The -enantiomer as also referred to as tarenflurbil.

Effects

Flurbiprofen (ATC M01AE09) has analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The effects are due to inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis by inhibition of cyclooxygenases-1 and -2 (COX-1 and COX-2). The half-life is in the range of 4 to 6 hours.

Indications

Dragées:

Inflammatory, degenerative and extra-articular rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and diseases of the spine.
Post-traumatic pain and swelling.
Pain after dental procedures.
Painful and inflammatory findings in gynecology, symptomatic treatment of dysmenorrhea.

Lozenges, spray:

For supportive local therapy of infectious and inflammatory diseases of the mouth and throat.

Dosage

According to the professional information. The dragées are usually taken three times a day before or with meals.

Contraindications

For complete information on precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Flurbiprofen is a substrate of CYP2C9.

Adverse effects

The most common potential adverse effects include when taken orally (dragées):

Gastrointestinal disturbances: Abdominal pain, dyspepsia, stomach burning, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, constipation, black-colored stools, vomiting blood, gastrointestinal bleeding.
Central disorders: Headache, dizziness, fatigue
Fluid retention, edema
Inhibition of platelet aggregation, prolongation of bleeding time.

As with all NSAIDs, serious side effects can occur, especially with prolonged use. Local treatment in the mouth and throat is better tolerated, but may also cause side effects.