Effect of Ibuprofen on Platelet Function in Normal Subjects and Hemophiliacs
Most anti-inflammatory analgesics are contraindicated in hemophiliacs because of inhibition of platelets, erosion of gastric mucosa, and prolongation of bleeding time. New proprionic acid derivatives are claimed to have a lower incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding and less effect on the hemostatic system. One of these (ibuprofen, Motrin, Upjohn) was given (600 mg per os) to normal subjects and hemophiliacs on a random, double-blind basis (lactose placebo) and platelet adhesiveness and aggregation, platelet and red-cell counts, % packed cells, % hemoglobin and modified Ivy bleeding time were measured before and 2 and 24 hours (hr) after drug. Pre-drug and 24 hr post-drug values were normal but at 2 hr post-drug, ADP, adrenaline and collagen aggregations were inhibited and bleeding times slightly but significantly prolonged in the ibuprofen-treated normal subjects. Similar results were obtained in the ibuprofen-treated hemophiliacs but prolongation of bleeding time was not significant. In vitro studies with citrated platelet-rich plasma showed that ibuprofen inhibits platelet aggregation and synthesis of prostaglandins by platelets. Thus the results suggest that ibuprofen may be given to hemophiliacs rather than some of the older anti-inflammatory agents presently in use.