Question

Which of the following pyrazolone derivative’s has toxic side effects?

(a) Piroxicam

(b) Phenylbutazone

(c) Ibuprofen

(d) Indomethacin

The question was posed to me during an interview for a job.

The above asked question is from Drug Addiction and Abuse topic in portion Local & General Anesthetics, Opioid Analgesics, Drug Addiction and Drug Abuse of Drug Biotechnology

Answer 1

The correct choice is (b) Phenylbutazone

Easiest explanation: Phenylbutazone a pyrazolone derivative is a powerful anti-inflammatory drug but its usefulness is limited by its toxicity chiefly short-term therapy. Piroxicam has a half-life of 45 hours and thus can be administered once a day but it can show some GI disturbance. Ibuprofen is a propionic acid derivative has the same potency as acetyl Salicylate but better tolerated (fewer side effects). Indomethacin is an indole derivative more potent than ASA but inferior at doses tolerated by rheumatoid arthritis patients it becomes toxic for these patients.