Lornoxicam: A Comprehensive Pharmacological Review

1. Introduction to Lornoxicam

Overview and Therapeutic Significance

Lornoxicam, also known by its chemical name chlortenoxicam, is a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) belonging to the oxicam class of therapeutic agents.[1] It is well-recognized for its pronounced analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties.[1] The primary clinical applications of lornoxicam include the management of acute mild to moderate pain, as well as the symptomatic relief of pain and inflammation associated with a spectrum of rheumatic conditions, most notably osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.[1]

A key distinguishing characteristic of lornoxicam, when compared with other members of the oxicam family, is its potent inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis. This potent action is coupled with a relatively short plasma elimination half-life, typically observed to be between 3 to 5 hours.[1] This pharmacokinetic profile is of particular interest as it is suggested to contribute to a potentially more favorable gastrointestinal (GI) tolerability profile. The rationale behind this improved tolerability lies in the reduced likelihood of drug accumulation and less sustained inhibition of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) in the gastrointestinal mucosa, an enzyme crucial for maintaining gastric mucosal integrity.