indoprofen

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

Action: 

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Indoprofen works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), specifically the COX-1 and COX-2 isoforms. This inhibition reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are mediators of inflammation. As a result, indoprofen helps alleviate inflammation associated with various conditions. 
• Analgesic (Pain-Relieving) Effects: By suppressing prostaglandin synthesis, indoprofen reduces pain perception. This makes it effective in providing relief from mild to moderate pain associated with musculoskeletal injuries or inflammatory disorders. 
• Antipyretic (Fever-Reducing) Effects: Indoprofen’s ability to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis also contributes to its antipyretic effects. It helps lower elevated body temperature associated with fever. 

Spectrum: 

• Inflammatory Conditions: Indoprofen is used to manage inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other inflammatory joint disorders. 
• Pain Management: It is employed for the relief of pain, including musculoskeletal pain, postoperative pain, and pain associated with injuries or inflammatory conditions. 
• Fever Reduction: Indoprofen is used to reduce fever in conditions where elevated body temperature is a symptom. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Nausea 

Heartburn 

Diarrhea 

Constipation 

Vomiting 

Indigestion 

fatigue 

Stomach pain 

Dizziness 

drowsiness 

itching 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

there was no black box warning associated with indoprofen. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Hypersensitivity: Individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to indoprofen or other NSAIDs should avoid its use. 
• Asthma, Nasal Polyps, and Aspirin Sensitivity: Indoprofen and other NSAIDs may exacerbate asthma, induce bronchospasm, or cause allergic reactions in individuals with a history of asthma, nasal polyps, or sensitivity to aspirin. 
• Severe Renal Impairment: NSAIDs, including indoprofen, can have adverse effects on renal function. They may be contraindicated in individuals with severe renal impairment or renal failure. 
• Severe Heart Failure: Indoprofen may exacerbate heart failure symptoms, and its use may be contraindicated in individuals with severe heart failure.

Caution: 

• Cardiovascular Risk: NSAIDs, including indoprofen, may be associated with an increased risk of heart attack. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should use indoprofen cautiously, and the lowest effective dose should be considered. 
• Renal Impairment: NSAIDs can have adverse effects on renal function. Individuals with pre-existing renal impairment or those at risk of dehydration should use indoprofen with caution, as it may further compromise kidney function. 
• Hypertension: NSAIDs can potentially elevate blood pressure. Caution is advised when using indoprofen in individuals with hypertension, and blood pressure should be monitored regularly. 
• Gastrointestinal Effects: NSAIDs, including indoprofen, are associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Caution is advised in individuals with a history of gastrointestinal disorders or those taking medications that may increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications. 
• Fluid Retention and Edema: Indoprofen may cause fluid retention and edema. It should be used cautiously in individuals with conditions predisposing them to fluid retention, such as heart failure or renal impairment. 
• Liver Impairment: Individuals with liver impairment should use indoprofen cautiously, as the drug is metabolized in the liver.

Comorbidities: 

• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Individuals with peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, may be at an increased risk of adverse gastrointestinal effects associated with NSAID use. The use of indoprofen should be approached cautiously in such cases. 
• Liver Disease: Liver function may be affected by NSAIDs, and individuals with liver disease should use indoprofen with caution, as the drug is metabolized in the liver. 
• Asthma: NSAIDs, including indoprofen, may exacerbate asthma symptoms in some individuals. Individuals with a history of asthma should use indoprofen with caution, and close monitoring is recommended. 
• Edema and Fluid Retention: Conditions associated with edema and fluid retention, such as heart failure, may be exacerbated by NSAIDs. Caution is advised in individuals with such comorbidities. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: pregnancy category: not assigned 

Lactation: excreted into human milk: unknown  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

Indoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with pharmacological properties primarily attributed to its inhibition of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). By inhibiting COX, indoprofen interferes with the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are signalling molecules involved in the inflammatory process.

Prostaglandins play a role in mediating pain, inflammation, and fever. Through its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects, indoprofen provides relief from pain, reduces inflammation associated with various conditions such as arthritis, and lowers elevated body temperature.

Additionally, indoprofen may exhibit both COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition, contributing to its therapeutic actions. It is important to note that, like other NSAIDs, indoprofen’s pharmacological effects are not without potential side effects, and its use requires careful consideration, especially in individuals with pre-existing health conditions.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

• COX Inhibition: Indoprofen inhibits both isoforms of the cyclooxygenase enzyme, COX-1, and COX-2. These enzymes play a crucial role in the converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, which are lipid mediators involved in inflammation, pain, and fever. 
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: By inhibiting COX and subsequently reducing prostaglandin synthesis, indoprofen exerts anti-inflammatory effects. It helps mitigate the inflammatory response associated with various conditions, including arthritis and other inflammatory disorders. 
• Analgesic (Pain-Relieving) Effects: Indoprofen’s inhibition of prostaglandins contributes to its analgesic effects. It reduces the perception of pain, making it effective in managing mild to moderate pain associated with conditions such as musculoskeletal injuries or inflammatory disorders. 
• Platelet Function: Indoprofen, like other NSAIDs, can inhibit platelet function. It may affect the aggregation of platelets, potentially contributing to a prolonged bleeding time.

Pharmacokinetics: 

• Absorption: Indoprofen is typically administered orally in the form of tablets or capsules. After oral administration, it gets absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The absorption of indoprofen occurs in the stomach and small intestine. 
• Distribution: Indoprofen is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. It crosses cell membranes and enters various tissues, including those where inflammation is present. The extent of distribution is influenced by factors such as protein binding and tissue perfusion. 
• Metabolism: Indoprofen undergoes hepatic metabolism in the liver. The primary metabolic pathway involves the oxidation of the side chain. The metabolites formed are pharmacologically inactive. Cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP2C9, play a role in the metabolism of indoprofen. 
• Excretion: The elimination of indoprofen and its metabolites occurs primarily through the kidneys. They are excreted in the urine. Some elimination also takes place through biliary excretion into the feces. The elimination half-life of indoprofen is influenced by individual factors and is 1-2 hours. The short half-life necessitates frequent dosing for maintaining therapeutic levels. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Dosage Form: Indoprofen is commonly available in the form of oral tablets or capsules. The standard route of administration for indoprofen is oral. The tablets or capsules are taken by mouth. 
• Timing of Administration: Indoprofen is often taken with a full glass of water. It may be taken with or without food but taking it on an empty stomach may enhance absorption. 
• Dosage Frequency: The frequency of indoprofen dosing depends on the formulation and condition being treated. It is typically taken multiple times a day to maintain therapeutic levels. 
• Caution in Special Populations: Special caution is often warranted in certain populations, such as the elderly or individuals with renal or hepatic impairment. Dosing adjustments may be necessary. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: indoprofen 

Pronounced: (in-doh-proh-fen)  

Why do we use indoprofen? 

Indoprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. Indoprofen is used to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis affecting the joints. In osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, indoprofen is prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation in affected joints.

Indoprofen is used for the symptomatic relief of musculoskeletal pain, including pain due to injuries or overuse of muscles and joints. It is prescribed in the management of mild to moderate pain, caused by dental procedures, headaches, or menstrual cramps.