Publication:

An experimental evaluation of anti-inflammatory activities of some combined NSAID preparations in albino rats

Background Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are among the most commonly used drugs across the globe and they are also available over the counter for minor symptoms of pain and inflammation. Their toxicity profile limits their continued usage and search is continuing for the better effective and safer agent.

Methods Interaction of paracetamol with diclofenac, ibuprofen and mefenamic acid were studied on carrageenan induced rat paw edema and cotton pellet induced granuloma models. Potentiation of these NSAIDs by paracetamol was also studied on same models.

Results Addition of paracetamol did not increase anti-inflammatory activity of diclofenac, ibuprofen and mefenamic acid in both acute and subacute models of inflammation. Paracetamol found to potentiate the ibuprofen action in anti-inflammatory model where as in subacute inflammatory model diclofenac action was potentited.

Conclusions Our study does not support the rationality of various fixed dose combination of NSAIDs with paracetamol available in market. Either NSAIDs to be used individually or their dose need to be decreased in fixed dose combination.