A Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drug: Aceclofenac

Aceclofenac (AC) is an effective non-steroidal antiinflammatory drug, which possesses remarkable antiinflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties. The analgesic and anti-inflammatory efficacy of AC is generally equivalent to that of comparator nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with similar onset of action. AC also shows stimulatory effects on glycosaminoglycan synthesis in human osteoarthritic cartilage. AC appears to be particularly well-tolerated among the NSAIDs with a lower incidence of gastrointestinal (GI) adverse effects. The presence of food does not alter the pharmacokinetic parameters of AC. The peak plasma concentrations (Cmax), the volume of distribution (Vd), biological half-life and the absorption of AC are not affected by age and therefore dose reductions are generally not necessary in patients. AC is an example of Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) Class II compound. Its oral bioavailability is determined by dissolution rate in GI tract. Therefore, the improvement of AC dissolution is an important issue for enhancing its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. A relatively large number of studies have been carried out to formulate different dosage forms of AC, such as tablets, soft capsules, particulate systems and topical systems. In this review, especially the oral, dermal and topical formulations of AC will be discussed.