Pharmacokinetics and Bioavailability of a Fixed-Dose Combination of Ibuprofen and Paracetamol after Intravenous and Oral Administration
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Previously published studies have suggested the lack of a pharmacokinetic interaction between ibuprofen and paracetamol when they are delivered as a fixed-dose oral combination. The aim of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetic profile and safety of a fixed-dose intravenous (IV) combination, containing 3 mg/mL ibuprofen and 10 mg/mL paracetamol, in comparison with its individual components. The study also assessed the relative bioavailability of the same doses of the active ingredients when they were administered as an oral formulation.
METHODS: A single-dose, open-label, randomized, five-period cross-over sequence pharmacokinetic study was undertaken in 30 healthy volunteers. Serial plasma samples were assayed for both paracetamol and ibuprofen concentrations, using validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry methods. Pharmacokinetic parameters were computed using standard non-compartmental analyses. Adverse events were also assessed. The ratios of the maximum measured plasma concentration (C max), the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) from time zero to the time of the last measurable plasma concentration (AUCt ) and AUC from time zero to infinity (AUC∞) were analysed for bioequivalence as determined by 90% confidence intervals.
RESULTS: The pharmacokinetic parameters of ibuprofen and paracetamol were very similar for the combination and monotherapy IV preparations; the ratios of the C max, AUC t and AUC∞…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 30 participants or records.
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