The chemical and biological background to alclofenac

Summary The essential chemistry of alclofenac is described together with a resumé of the pharmacological and toxicological properties. Its metabolism is described and absorption and excretion commented upon. The unique character of the alclofenac molecule in relation to its active allyloxy group and its close conformational resemblance to L-tryptophan is emphasised. Particular note is made of the absence of gastro-intestinal irritation in the long-term studies in animals and in man.