What is Aceclofenac Tablets ?
Aceclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It belongs to a class of medications known as selective COX-2 inhibitors, which means it primarily inhibits the enzyme COX-2 involved in the inflammatory process.
Aceclofenac is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and topical preparations like gels or creams. It is typically taken orally, with or without food, as directed by a healthcare provider.
Aceclofenac Tablets Uses
- Osteoarthritis: This is a common form of arthritis where the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in joints gradually breaks down, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis: This is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing pain and stiffness.
- Dental Pain: Aceclofenac may be used for short-term relief of dental pain.
- Painful Menstrual Periods (Dysmenorrhea): It can be used to alleviate pain associated with menstruation.
- Musculoskeletal and Joint Disorders: It may be used for various musculoskeletal conditions that involve pain and inflammation.
- Acute Gout: It can be used to manage the pain and inflammation associated with acute gout attacks.
- Postoperative Pain and Inflammation: Aceclofenac may be prescribed after certain surgical procedures to help manage pain and inflammation.
Aceclofenac Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action: Aceclofenac works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). There are two isoforms of this enzyme: COX-1 and COX-2.
- COX-1 Inhibition: COX-1 is constitutively expressed in many tissues and plays a role in maintaining normal physiological functions, such as protecting the stomach lining and promoting platelet aggregation (which helps in blood clotting). Inhibition of COX-1 can lead to gastrointestinal side effects like gastric irritation and bleeding.
- COX-2 Inhibition: COX-2 is an inducible enzyme that is primarily involved in the production of prostaglandins during inflammation. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that mediate pain, inflammation, and fever. By inhibiting COX-2, aceclofenac reduces the production of prostaglandins, which in turn leads to a reduction in pain and inflammation.
Aceclofenac Tablets – Side-effects
- Headache
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Drowsiness
