Drug Profile: Benoral

Abstract

Benorylate, an esterification product of paracetamol and acetylsalicylic acid is indicated in the treatment of rheumatoid and osteo-arthritis, other painful conditions and febrile states. In animals benorylate’ has been shown to be of low toxicity and only has teratogenic activity at high doses. Gastric effects are less severe than occur with aspirin. Analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic effects have been demonstrated in animal models. Benorylate is well absorbed and metabolised to paracetamol and aspirin producing higher steady state levels than that with paracetamol alone. In man the half life is about one hour. Clinically, benorylate has been shown to be comparable with aspirin in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteo-arthritis and other painful conditions. It shows better gastric tolerance than aspirin and is less likely to produce gastro-intestinal bleeding. A prolonged anti-pyretic effect has been demonstrated.