Pharmacotherapeutic group: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug
ATC Vet Code : QM01AE91
Pharmacodynamic properties
Carprofen, (±)-6-chloro-α-methylcarbazole-2-acetic acid, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is a derivative of phenylpropionic acid and a member of the arylpropionic acid class of NSAIDs. As a representative of the 2-arylpropionic family, it contains a chiral center at C2 of the propionic moiety and therefore, exists in 2 sterioisomeric forms, the (+)-S and (-)-R enantiomers.
Carprofen possess anti-inflammatory, anaglesic and anti-pyretic activity. Carprofen like most other NSAIDs is an inhibitor of the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase of the arachidonic acid cascade. However the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by carprofen is slight in relation to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic potency. The precise mode of action of carprofen is not clear.
Pharmacokinetic properties
Absorption is rapid with >90% absorption after oral administration. The volume of distribution is small and carprofen is highly bound to plasma proteins. Biotransformation of carprofen occurs in the liver to form the ester glucuronide and two 1-O-acyl-β-D-glucuronide diastereoisomers. These are secreted in the biliary tract and excreted in the faeces. The Cmax is 28.51 µg/ml and the AUC is 237.33 µg/ml.hour.