Single-dose and multiple-dose pharmacokinetics of zaltoprofen after oral administration in healthy Chinese volunteers

Zaltoprofen, a propionic acid derivative of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, has strong inhibitory effects on actue and chronic inflammation. A randomized, dose-escalating study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of single and multiple oral doses of zaltoprofen in 12 healthy Chinese volunteers. Pharmacokinetics was determined from serial blood samples obtained up to 24 h after administration of a single dose of zaltoprofen at 80, 160 or 240 mg and after multiple doses of zaltqorofen at 80 mg 3 times daily. The C_max and AUC_0-24 of zaltoprofen were found to be proportional to drug dose. Zaltoprofen was rapidly absorbed (t_max =1.46±0.83 h) and cleared (t_1/2 =4.96±2.97 h). Pharmacokinetic parameters after multiple doses were similar to those after single doses. Zaltoprofen was well tolerated. These results support a tid regimen of zaltoprofen for the management of acute and chronic inflammation.