Ibufenac (4-isobutylphenyl Acetic Acid)

Abstract

Ibufenac (4-isobutylphenyl acetic acid) is an effective substitute for aspirin when used in half the dose and is tolerated by many patients who suffer from dyspepsia while taking salicylates. Jaundice occurred in this series in one out of 62 patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with Ibufenac and in less than 1% of all patients treated to date; all made a complete recovery. In 25 patients on long-term therapy a rise in serum transaminase levels occurred in 7, and while the therapy was continued the levels returned towards normal in 5 out of 6 patients. It is suggested that this abnormality is not always a specific indication of liver damage. Further research work into the hepato-toxicity of this drug is indicated as it is of obvious clinical value.