Arrestin

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Arrestin

What is Arrestin? Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Aceclofenac
Form Tablet (Oral formulation)
Pharmacological class Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Common purpose Relief from pain and inflammation
Origin Synthetic compound

What is Arrestin and What Type of Medicine is Aceclofenac?

Arrestin is a medicine whose core component is the active ingredient Aceclofenac, a synthetic compound that is classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). This designation places it within a critical group of pharmacological agents whose primary function is to address both pain and swelling within the body. Aceclofenac is specifically recognized as a phenylacetic acid derivative, chemically related to other potent anti-inflammatory agents like diclofenac, and is noted for delivering substantial anti-inflammatory effects. As an oral NSAID, Aceclofenac possesses marked anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. The medicine's primary benefit is to alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling associated with various conditions, such as generalized musculoskeletal pain.

Composition, Form, and General Therapeutic Purpose

The medicine is supplied as a single-ingredient product in a solid oral formulation, typically taking the form of a tablet intended for the oral route of administration. This structure, composed of the active substance plus necessary pharmaceutical excipients, is designed for systemic action upon ingestion, differentiating it from topical preparations that act locally. The drug's general therapeutic purpose is to provide symptomatic relief from pain and inflammation, which it achieves through its defined physiological action. Aceclofenac functions as a cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, a mechanism principle that directly reduces the body’s synthesis of prostaglandins, the chemical mediators centrally involved in generating the signals of pain and initiating inflammation. Aceclofenac is considered at least as effective as other established NSAIDs in reducing pain and improving functional capacity.

What side effects are possible with Arrestin?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

This section describes the adverse reactions and safety constraints of Arrestin (Aceclofenac) as documented in official government regulatory information.

Aceclofenac is classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), and its safety profile is structured by standardized System-Organ-Class categories, with adverse reactions grouped by frequency.


Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

Classification Examples of Documented Effects
Common (ge 1/100 to <1/10) Dyspepsia, abdominal pain, nausea, increased hepatic enzymes.
Uncommon (ge 1/1,000 to <1/100) Flatulence, gastritis, rash, vomiting, pruritus.
Rare (ge 1/10,000 to <1/1,000) Anaemia, visual disturbance, hypersensitivity reactions including angioedema.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Official regulatory sources highlight the risk of serious adverse reactions, including gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, or perforation, which can occur at any time during treatment. Additionally, an increased risk of cardiovascular thrombotic events (such as myocardial infarction or stroke) is documented, particularly with higher doses and longer durations of use. Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome) are also listed as rare but serious risks.

Safety constraints and contraindications are defined for specific patient groups and conditions. The medicine is contraindicated in individuals with established severe cardiac failure, active gastrointestinal ulceration, and during the third trimester of pregnancy. Safety information also notes that older adults face an increased risk of severe adverse reactions, especially GI bleeding and perforation.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Overdose of Arrestin (Aceclofenac) is defined in regulatory documents by its effects on several physiological systems. Documented manifestations of over-ingestion commonly involve the gastrointestinal system and the central nervous system (CNS), presenting with signs such as epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, drowsiness, and disorientation.

The official prescribing information emphasizes the potential for severe or life-threatening outcomes. These critical complications include coma, seizures, hypotension, respiratory depression, and the potential for acute renal or liver failure. The elderly are noted in safety warnings as being more susceptible to severe adverse effects, requiring specific consideration during surveillance.

Management is strictly symptomatic and supportive because regulatory findings state that no specific antidote is known for Aceclofenac overdose. Regulators mandate that immediate medical attention must be sought for any severe symptoms, particularly convulsions, respiratory issues, or signs of a serious cardiovascular event. For potentially toxic ingestions, the administration of activated charcoal or the use of gastric lavage is specified for consideration within one hour of ingestion. Close monitoring of renal and liver function is also required during the recovery period.

Therapeutic Uses of Arrestin

What Arrestin Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Arrestin (Aceclofenac) is commonly used to manage symptoms related to inflammatory and painful processes, specifically in instances where additional symptomatic support is needed to address specific conditions.

Managing Chronic Pain and Inflammation in Joint Disorders

Arrestin is generally used for the symptomatic management of major chronic inflammatory conditions, including Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Ankylosing Spondylitis. It is applied in clinical settings marked by the heightened discomfort of persistent joint pain, swelling, and tenderness. The key therapeutic benefit contributes to easing the overall symptom burden, supporting day-to-day comfort and assisting with maintaining functional stability.

“The intent of this supportive therapy is generally to assist patients with coping more steadily with chronic symptoms, helping to maintain a sense of stability when symptoms are more noticeable.”

Relief for Acute Musculoskeletal and Localized Pain

The medication is considered relevant for easing acute and episodic symptoms, and may assist in managing groups of symptoms that appear suddenly or fluctuate in the musculoskeletal domain. This includes symptoms associated with acute low back pain, soft tissue inflammation, and discomfort related to dental issues (toothache). Arrestin provides supportive relief that may help patients cope more steadily with these challenging episodes, assisting with maintaining functional stability when symptoms interfere with routine activities.

Quick Fact: Therapeutic Domain Overview
Arrestin is applied in conditions involving episodic or fluctuating manifestations of pain and inflammation, and may support the patient during challenging symptomatic phases.

Regulatory References

  1. UK Government (MHRA) Guidance

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Population Eligibility and Contraindications

Arrestin (Aceclofenac) is officially indicated for use in adults who do not have documented contraindications. Use is not recommended for the paediatric population (children under 18 years of age) due to a lack of clinical data in this age group.

Use is strictly contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to aceclofenac or any other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), including those who have experienced asthma, rhinitis, or urticaria following the use of aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Absolute prohibitions also apply to patients with a history of active or recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding/ulceration, severe renal failure, severe hepatic failure, or established congestive heart failure (NYHA Class II–IV), ischaemic heart disease, or cerebrovascular disease. Patients must not use the medicine during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Restricted use requires close medical surveillance for the elderly and for patients with mild-to-moderate renal or hepatic impairment. The drug is not recommended for women who are attempting to conceive or who are breastfeeding.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Arrestin Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

Official regulatory documents classify interactions for Aceclofenac (Arrestin) based on effects related to increased bleeding risk, compromised renal function, and altered drug exposure.

Interaction Classification Interacting Substances/Products Official Effect Description
Contraindicated Combination Other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), COX-2 selective inhibitors Co-administration is restricted due to the heightened, additive risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration.
Increased Bleeding Risk Anti-coagulants (e.g., Warfarin), Anti-platelet agents, Systemic Corticosteroids, SSRIs Aceclofenac may enhance the effects of anti-coagulants, requiring close monitoring, and generally increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding with the other groups.
Renal & Hemodynamic Risk Anti-hypertensives (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, Diuretics), Ciclosporin, Tacrolimus May reduce the effect of anti-hypertensives and diuretics; co-administration with these, Ciclosporin, or Tacrolimus carries an increased risk of acute renal insufficiency (nephrotoxicity).
Altered Drug Exposure Lithium, Methotrexate, Digoxin The elimination of these medicines may be decreased, potentially leading to increased plasma concentrations and heightened toxicity (Methotrexate, Lithium) or reduced GFR (Digoxin).
Timing Restriction Mifepristone Use of Aceclofenac is prohibited for 8–12 days after Mifepristone administration to prevent reduction of its required effect.
Substance Interaction Alcohol (Ethanol) Official warnings note that alcohol consumption may increase the risk of gastric bleeding.

The drug's interaction profile is structurally defined by these mandated regulatory constraints. Population-specific cautions also note that elderly patients are more susceptible to the severity of these adverse interactions.

Mechanism of Action

The activity of Arrestin (Aceclofenac) is determined by its interaction within the body's biochemical signaling systems. The mechanism involves molecular interactions that modulate specific enzymatic processes.

Enzyme Inhibition at the Molecular Core

The drug's action begins by inhibiting Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically blocking both the constitutive ( COX-1) and inducible ( COX-2) isoforms. This targeted enzyme inhibition initiates a chemical cascade that modifies signaling dynamics within key molecular pathways.

⬇️ Disruption of Prostaglandin Mediators

Inhibition of the COX enzymes leads to a significant disruption of Prostaglandin synthesis, which are lipid mediators. This action reduces the concentration of synthesized mediators within the targeted pathways.

Modulation of Peripheral Pain Signaling

The resulting scarcity of Prostaglandins translates into a direct modulation of peripheral nociceptive signaling. By reducing the sensitization of peripheral nociceptors, the drug decreases the magnitude of afferent signal propagation. This limits downstream effects, resulting in physiological adjustments that characterize the drug’s overall pharmacodynamic profile.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Arrestin (Aceclofenac): Official Administration Guidelines

Arrestin, which contains the active ingredient aceclofenac, is supplied as an oral film-coated tablet for systemic use. The administration protocol includes a standardized dosage and a defined route of intake.

Standard Dosage and Frequency

The standard total daily dose for adults is 200 mg. This regimen is typically achieved by administering the 100 mg tablet twice daily, with one dose taken in the morning and the second in the evening. Treatment typically utilizes the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to manage symptoms.

Administration Conditions and Procedural Rules

The tablets are intended to be swallowed whole with a sufficient quantity of liquid and should not be crushed or chewed to ensure the intended release of the active substance. The medicine is recommended to be taken with or immediately after food to aid tolerability.

Population-Specific Adjustments

Dosing schedules are subject to modification based on certain clinical conditions:

  • Hepatic Impairment: For patients with mild to moderate liver impairment, the initial total daily dose is reduced to 100 mg, administered once daily.
  • Pediatric Use: The use of Arrestin in children and adolescents (under 18 years of age) is not recommended due to a lack of adequate clinical data.
  • Elderly Patients: While routine dose adjustments are not strictly specified, a cautious approach is followed, adhering to the principle of using the lowest necessary dose for the shortest duration.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Arrestin: Recent Clinical Evidence

Clinical research has primarily focused on the use of Arrestin (minocycline hydrochloride microspheres) as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) for the management of chronic periodontitis in adults.

Efficacy in Periodontal Treatment

Studies have evaluated the combination of Arrestin plus SRP compared to SRP alone or SRP plus a vehicle (a polymer control). Two major multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trials included hundreds of patients with moderate-to-advanced periodontitis, characterized by significant probing depths.

  • Pocket Depth Reduction: The combined results of these trials showed that treatment with Arrestin plus SRP was associated with statistically significantly greater mean reductions in probing pocket depth (PD) at nine months compared to SRP alone. When trials were combined, the mean PD reduction at nine months was 1.42, mm for the combination, versus 1.18, mm for SRP alone.
  • Microbiological Effects: Research demonstrated that the addition of the minocycline microspheres to SRP produced a greater mean reduction in the proportion of specific bacteria, known as Red Complex Bacteria (RCBs), at 30 days compared to SRP alone. This indicates an observable reduction in the bacterial burden often associated with the progression of periodontitis.

Dosage and Duration of Effect

Clinical studies frequently measured outcomes at nine months following initial treatment. The mean PD reduction observed at nine months was consistently greater in the group receiving the adjunct treatment. The effects were observed across various patient subgroups, including those who smoke or who have other chronic conditions, although the overall reduction was generally less pronounced in smokers.

A pharmacokinetic study confirmed that the method of delivery provided minocycline concentrations in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) at levels sufficient to affect bacteria in vitro for up to 14 days, with limited systemic exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Arrestin (FAQ)

Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks I should avoid while using Arrestin?

Official product information advises taking the medicine with or immediately after food, as this is recommended to aid tolerability. Regulatory warnings state that consuming alcohol while using Arrestin may increase the risk of gastric bleeding. No other specific foods or drinks are routinely listed as restricted in the product documentation.

Q: Is Arrestin a long-term medication, or is it only for short use?

Regulatory guidelines emphasize that treatment should always utilize the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to manage the patient's symptoms. This guidance is part of the established strategy for appropriate drug use, and official documentation defines use conditions based on the treatment goals for the patient.

Q: Does Arrestin interact with common vitamins or herbal supplements?

While official interaction tables focus on specific prescription medicines, anti-coagulants, and anti-platelet agents, official documents emphasize the importance of communicating all concomitant products. This includes any herbal supplements or vitamins, as they may potentially alter the drug's effects or increase certain risks, such as bleeding.

Q: What do clinical studies say about the effectiveness of Arrestin?

Studies and official information state that Arrestin (Aceclofenac) is considered effective for managing pain and inflammation. Clinical analysis indicates the drug demonstrates substantial anti-inflammatory effects and improves functional capacity, aligning with its intended therapeutic purpose.

Q: Is Arrestin known to affect blood pressure?

Official labeling notes that the medicine may reduce the effect of certain anti-hypertensive drugs used to lower blood pressure. It is also contraindicated in patients with established congestive heart failure. These constraints relate to the drug's potential effects on renal function and fluid balance.

Q: What is the mechanism of action of Arrestin, explained simply?

According to official documents, Arrestin works by blocking enzymes in the body called cyclooxygenases. These enzymes are responsible for creating prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. By reducing the production of prostaglandins, the drug is used to alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling.

Q: How quickly does Arrestin typically start to work?

Official pharmacokinetic data indicates that the active substance typically reaches its highest concentration in the bloodstream approximately 1.25 to 3 hours after it is swallowed. This measurable peak concentration is the point at which the highest systemic exposure is achieved.

Q: Is it common to feel tired after starting Arrestin?

Regulatory documents list some central nervous system effects, such as dizziness, as a common adverse reaction. While fatigue or tiredness is not listed among the most common adverse reactions, official warnings advise caution regarding dizziness or visual disturbances.

Q: Does taking Arrestin affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Official warnings state that caution is necessary if patients experience side effects such as dizziness, vertigo, or visual disturbances. Activities such as driving or operating complex machinery should be avoided if these side effects occur.

Q: What if I forget to take my dose of Arrestin?

Official patient leaflets indicate that if a dose is missed, the recommended procedure is to skip that dose and take the next one at the regularly scheduled time. Taking a double dose to compensate for the missed one is typically not advised.

Q: Is Arrestin known to cause weight gain?

Regulatory safety information documents oedema (fluid retention or swelling) as a possible adverse reaction. This condition is associated with a fluid imbalance that may result in weight increase. If fluid retention is a concern, official guidance directs consulting a healthcare provider.

Q: What is the difference between Arrestin and a generic version of the drug?

According to regulatory standards, a generic version of Arrestin is required to contain the identical active ingredient (Aceclofenac) and be proven to be bioequivalent to the brand-name product. This means the generic must match the brand name in dosage form, safety, strength, quality, and performance characteristics.

Q: Does Arrestin have any black box warnings?

Regulatory documents globally highlight the potential for serious risks, which are the subject of the most critical warnings. These serious risks include an increased potential for cardiovascular thrombotic events (like heart attack or stroke) and serious gastrointestinal reactions such as bleeding or ulceration.

Q: If I stop taking Arrestin suddenly, will I have withdrawal effects?

Regulatory safety documentation for this class of medication does not typically define a formal withdrawal syndrome. Official information stresses that treatment changes should be managed by a healthcare professional.

Q: What is the longest time a person has been on Arrestin in clinical trials?

Official regulatory summaries detail the dosing and follow-up durations used in the key efficacy and safety clinical trials. For the management of chronic conditions, studies often track patients and measure outcomes for periods of up to several months to assess the drug's long-term performance and safety profile.

Q: Is it normal to have a slight headache when first taking Arrestin?

Headache is listed in the official safety information as an adverse reaction, generally classified as either uncommon or rare.

Q: What is the expected duration of the effects of one dose of Arrestin?

The expected duration of the drug's presence is primarily indicated by its pharmacokinetic data. The active substance's approximate half-life (the time it takes for half the drug to be eliminated) is listed as around four hours.

Q: Are there any specific activities or sports that are restricted while using Arrestin?

Specific sports or physical activities are generally not restricted. However, official information advises caution during activities that require high alertness, such as certain sports, if side effects like dizziness or visual disturbances occur.

Q: Does Arrestin cause any changes to mood or mental health?

Regulatory documents list adverse reactions related to mental health, primarily classified as rare. These documented effects include the potential for depression and insomnia (difficulty sleeping), and, on occasion, reports of psychotic reactions.

Q: What is the purpose of the 'Research evidence' section for Arrestin?

The purpose of the research evidence section is to provide factual data on the drug's performance. This evidence is based on controlled clinical trials that have been reviewed by regulatory bodies to establish the drug's efficacy profile and to further characterize its safety constraints.

Q: If I am taking multiple medications, how can I check for Arrestin interactions?

Official regulatory sources stress the importance of having a healthcare professional or pharmacist review the full list of medications. Combining multiple medicines may present a complex risk profile that requires professional oversight.

Q: Can a person who is vegetarian or vegan take Arrestin?

Official documents, such as the Summary of Product Characteristics, contain the complete list of all inactive ingredients (excipients). This list specifies components like gelatin or certain lactose sources, which patients may review for dietary compatibility.

Q: Does Arrestin affect sleep patterns?

Official safety information includes insomnia (difficulty sleeping) as a documented adverse reaction, typically classified as rare.

Q: Are there any required tests or monitoring while on Arrestin?

Official guidelines advise that patients receiving long-term treatment should be periodically monitored. This monitoring often includes checks for renal function, hepatic function (liver), and routine blood count measurements. Close medical surveillance may also be advised for those with pre-existing conditions.

Q: Why do some people report dizziness when taking Arrestin?

Dizziness is listed as a common adverse reaction in the official regulatory documents for Arrestin. This means it was observed in a significant percentage of patients during clinical trials.

Q: What is the full list of inactive ingredients in Arrestin?

The complete, mandatory list of all inactive ingredients (known as excipients) is included in the official regulatory documents, such as the Patient Information Leaflet and the Summary of Product Characteristics. This list details every substance used in the tablet formulation aside from the active ingredient.

Q: Is Arrestin a controlled substance?

According to government drug control authorities, the active ingredient in Arrestin is classified as a non-opioid and is not listed as a controlled substance. It is categorized as a standard Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).

Q: When was Arrestin first approved by the FDA?

The specific date of the drug's initial approval for marketing is maintained in the official regulatory history by government agencies, such as the FDA's Drugs@FDA database. This regulatory history is a public factual record.

Q: Does Arrestin lose effectiveness over time?

Clinical trials reviewed by regulatory bodies often measure sustained efficacy over defined treatment periods, sometimes lasting several months. This data is used to assess the drug's performance over time.

How should Arrestin be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Arrestin (Aceclofenac)

The storage and disposal of Arrestin tablets must follow conditions specified in official regulatory labeling.

Storage Requirements

The medicine is required to be stored below 25°C or 30°C (depending on the region of authorization) and must be protected from moisture. It is mandatory to store the tablets in their original package and keep the blister in the outer carton. The label strictly states not to store the medicine in a refrigerator and not to freeze it.

Child Safety and Disposal

For safety, Arrestin must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Regarding disposal, unused or expired tablets must not be thrown away via wastewater or with household waste. Patients are instructed to consult a pharmacist for guidance on how to properly discard the medicine, as these measures help protect the environment. The product must not be used after the expiry date printed on the packaging.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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