Drug Profile: Tanderil Eye Ointment

Abstract

Tanderil® (oxyphenbutazone) is a pyrazole similar in structure to phenylbutazone of which it is a naturally occurring metabolite. It has been used for many years as an anti-inflammatory compound in rheumatic conditions and soft tissue inflammation. Its use in ophthalmology is well documented. It is absorbed across the corneoscleral barrier in therapeutic amounts from an oily based oculent, and it does not produce the problems of cataract formation, rise in intra-ocular pressure and enhancement of viral replication, which may be associated with steroid therapy. Clinically Tanderil Eye Ointment is useful in the suppression of inflammatory response associated with endogenous disease, trauma and operative intervention. It is well tolerated by the majority of patients and presents a safe topical antiinflammatory preparation which may be used as an alternative to steroids.