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Glutamatergic N-Methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are heterotetrameric ion channels that can be comprised of different subunits. GluN2A subunit-containing NMDA receptors are associated with diseases like anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. However, the exact contribution of these NMDA receptor subtypes is still unclear. To understand better the role of the GluN2A-containing receptors, novel ligands were designed. In co-crystallization with the isolated binding site, TCN-201 (1) and analogs adopt a U-shape conformation with parallel orientation of rings A and B. In order to increase the π/π-interactions between these rings, ring B of TCN-201 was replaced bioisosterically by different electron-rich thiazole, oxazole, and isoxazole heterocycles. The inhibitory activity was measured by two-electrode voltage clamp experiments with Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing GluN2A-containing NMDA receptors. It was found that 21c, 31a, 37a, and 37b were able to inhibit the ion channel. The isoxazole derivative 37b was the most potent negative allosteric modulator displaying 40% of the TCN-201 activity at a concentration of 10 μM., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs) such as, ambrisentan, macitentan and sitaxentan are primarily used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Considering the rise in endothelin in pre-eclampsia, ERAs may also be useful in its treatment. To evaluate the pharmacokinetics of ERAs, a rapid ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated to determine the concentration of ambrisentan, macitentan and sitaxentan in human plasma. Plasma samples were treated with methanol to induce protein precipitation. A chromatographic separation was performed on a C 18 column using a gradient of methanol-water containing 0.1% formic acid and 0.013% ammonium acetate and a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min. Multiple reaction monitoring was used for quantification. This method was validated in a linear range of 20.28-2028 μg/l for ambrisentan, 4.052-405.2 μg/l for macitentan and 205.4-10 270 μg/l for sitaxentan. The method was successfully validated according to US Food and Drug Administration guidelines to determine the concentrations of macitentan, ambrisentan and sitaxentan in human plasma. This method is now being used for study samples and clinical patient samples., (© 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

A series of novel substituted oxazole isoxazole carboxamides derivatives were designed on the basis of active subunit combination. Forty-four novel compounds were synthesized by an efficient one-pot procedure under microwave irradiation. The bioactivity was evaluated as herbicide safener against the injury of chlorsulfuron. It was found that most of the synthesized compounds displayed remarkable protection against chlorsulfuron via enhanced glutathione content and glutathione S transferase activity. Especially compound I-11 exhibited better bioactivity than the safeners isoxadifen-ethyl and R-28725. Molecular docking simulations suggested that the target compounds could compete with chlorsulfuron in the active site of acetolactate synthase, which could explain the protective effects of safeners. The present work demonstrates that the target compounds containing oxazole isoxazole groups could be considered as potential candidates for developing novel safeners in the future., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients is still hindered by resistance and relapse, resulting in an overall poor survival rate. Recently, combining specific B-cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2 inhibitors with compounds downregulating myeloid cell leukemia (Mcl)-1 has been proposed as a new effective strategy to eradicate resistant AML cells. We show here that 1( R ), 6( S ), 1'( R ), 6'( S ), 11( R ), 17( S )-fistularin-3, a bromotyrosine compound of the fistularin family, isolated from the marine sponge Suberea clavata , synergizes with Bcl-2 inhibitor ABT-199 to efficiently kill Mcl-1/Bcl-2-positive AML cell lines, associated with Mcl-1 downregulation and endoplasmic reticulum stress induction. The absolute configuration of carbons 11 and 17 of the fistularin-3 stereoisomer was fully resolved in this study for the first time, showing that the fistularin we isolated from the marine sponge Subarea clavata is in fact the (+)-11( R ), 17( S )-fistularin-3 stereoisomer keeping the known configuration 1( R ), 6( S ), 1'( R ), and 6'( S ) for the verongidoic acid part. Docking studies and in vitro assays confirm the potential of this family of molecules to inhibit DNA methyltransferase 1 activity.

In this study we report the synthesis, characterization, biological evaluation, and druglikeness assessment of a series of 20 novel isoxazolyl-sulfonamides, obtained by a four-step synthetic route. The compounds had their activity against Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania amazonensis, Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 and cytotoxicity evaluated in phenotypic assays. All compounds have drug-like properties, showed low cytotoxicity and were promising regarding all other biological activities reported herein, especially the inhibitory activity against T. cruzi. The compounds 8 and 16 showed significant potency and selectivity against T. cruzi (GI 50  = 14.3 µM, SI > 34.8 and GI 50  = 11.6 µM, SI = 29.1, respectively). These values, close to the values of the reference drug benznidazole (GI 50  = 10.2 µM), suggest that compounds 8 and 16 represent promising candidates for further pre-clinical development targeting Chagas disease., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Radiosynthesis and in vivo evaluation of [ 11 C]4-[5-(4-methylphenyl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl]benzenesulfonamide (methoxy analogue of valdecoxib, [ 11 C]MOV), a COX-2 inhibitor, was conducted in rat and baboon. Synthesis of the reference standard MOV (3), and its desmethyl precursor 2 for radiolabeling were performed using 1,2-diphenylethan-1-one as the starting material in five steps with 15% overall yield. Radiosynthesis of [ 11 C]MOV was accomplished in 40 ± 10% yield and >99% radiochemical purity by reacting the precursor 2 in dimethyl formamide (DMF) with [ 11 C]CH 3 I followed by removal of the dimethoxytrityl (DMT) protective group using trifluroacetic acid. PET studies in anesthetized baboon showed very low uptake and homogeneous distribution of [ 11 C]MOV in brain. The radioligand underwent rapid metabolism in baboon plasma. MicroPET studies in male Sprague Dawley rats revealed [ 11 C]MOV binding in lower thorax. The tracer binding in rats was partially blocked in heart and duodenum by the administration of 1 mg/kg oral dose of COX-2 inhibitor valdecoxib., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Secondary sulfonamides ( 4a - 8h ) incorporating acetoxybenzamide, triacetoxybenzamide, hydroxybenzamide, and trihydroxybenzamide and possessing thiazole, pyrimidine, pyridine, isoxazole and thiadiazole groups were synthesized. Lactoperoxidase (LPO, E.C.1.11.1.7), as a natural antibacterial agent, is a peroxidase enzyme secreted from salivary, mammary, and other mucosal glands. In the present study, the in vitro inhibitory effects of some secondary sulfonamide derivatives ( 4a - 8h ) were examined against LPO. The obtained results reveal that secondary sulfonamide derivatives ( 4a - 8h ) are effective LPO inhibitors. The K i values of secondary sulfonamide derivatives ( 4a - 8h ) were found in the range of 1.096 × 10 -3 to 1203.83 µM against LPO. However, the most effective inhibition was found for N -(sulfathiazole)-3,4,5-triacetoxybenzamide ( 6a ), with K i values of 1.096 × 10 -3 ± 0.471 × 10 -3 µM as non-competitive inhibition., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Three distinct series of isoxazole-based primary mono- and bis-sulfonamides have been synthesized via direct sulfochlorination, each of them delivering nanomolar inhibitors of human carbonic anhydrase. Certain pronounced SAR trends have been established and rationalized by in silico docking. These findings expand the structure-activity knowledge base for heterocycle-containing sulfonamide carbonic anhydrase inhibitors and further validate the power of direct electrophilic sulfochlorination as a means of introducing the pharmacophoric primary sulfonamide group into structurally diverse aromatic precursors., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Two series of benzenesulfonamide containing isoxazole compounds were prepared by using conventional and microwave (MW) methods. 5-Amino-3-aryl-N-(4-sulfamoylphenyl)isoxazole-4-carboxamide derivatives were synthesized by the reaction of hydroxymoyl chlorides with 2-cyano-N-(4-sulfamoylphenyl)acetamide in the presence of triethylamine. The synthesized 5-amino isoxazoles were reacted with various benzoyl chlorides in order to obtain 5-amidoisoxazoles. The novel compounds were screened in vitro as inhibitors of four human (h) isoforms of the metalloenzyme carbonic anhydrase (CA, EC 4.2.1.1): hCA I, hCA II, hCA IV and hCA VII. The derivatives of the first series were shown to possess excellent inhibitory activity against the cytosolic isoform hCA II, an antiglaucoma drug target, with K I s in the range of 0.5-49.3nM and hCA VII, a recently validated anti-neuropathic pain target with K I s in the range of 4.3-51.9nM., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

A series of novel sulfonamide isoxazolo[5,4-b]pyridines were synthesized. The substrates for their synthesis were 3-aminoisoxazolo[5,4-b]pyridine and selected aryl sulfonic chlorides, chlorosulfonic acid and selected amines. Reactions were carried out using the classical and microwave methods. Selected compounds were tested towards antibacterial and antiproliferative activity. The structure of the obtained new derivatives was determined by elemental analysis and acquired IR and 1H NMR spectra. Among the tested compounds: N- isoxazolo[5,4-b]pyridine-3-yl-benzenesulfonamide (2) and N-isoxazolo[5,4-b]pyridine-3-yl-4-methylbenzene-sulfonamide (5) showed antimicrobial activity towards Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) and Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) at doses: 125, 250 and 500 µg. Both compounds showed a 50% inhibition of proliferation of breast carcinoma cell line MCF7 at concentrations of 152.56 µg/mL and 160 161.08 µg/mL, respectively.

A palladium-catalyzed efficient synthesis of 5-methylisoxazoles via oxime-mediated functionalization of unactivated olefins is described. The reaction affords a variety of 5-methylisoxazoles in moderate to good yields. To further demonstrate the utility of the method, the rapid synthesis of valdecoxib and oxacillin is reported.

The medicinal activity of COX-2 inhibitors are sufficiently beneficial to urge the search for new drug designs. This study presents 16 analogs of lumiracoxib and 10 analogs to valdecoxib having properties suitable as COX-2 inhibitors. For lumiracoxib analogs the mean Log P, polar surface area, and formula weight are 3.00, 70.46 A(2), and 276.60, respectively. For valdecoxib analogs the mean Log P, polar surface area, and formula weight are 3.65, 68.46 A(2), and 322.32, respectively. Grubb's test analysis of seven properties for seven known COX-2 selective inhibitors and those of 26 analog compounds indicated no outliers. The unpaired t-test compared Log P and polar surface area of seven known COX-2 inhibitors to all 26 analogs and found no difference. All 26 analogs showed no violation of the Rule of 5, this being an indicator of favorable bioavailability. Hierarchical cluster analysis by single linkage indicated lumiracoxib is most similar to analogs 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 16, and 17. Valdecoxib has highest similarity to analogs 8, 19, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, and 28. Multiple regression analysis successfully produced equations for prediction of similar compounds to lumiracoxib and valdecoxib. Path analysis indicated that number of atoms, oxygen & nitrogen atoms, and Log P are the greatest determinants for formula weight for known COX-2 inhibitors. Criteria for molecular properties is established for identifying COX-2 inhibitors. These 26 analogs show much potential for active COX-2 inhibition.

A facile one-pot sequential conjugate addition/dearomative fluorination transformation of isoxazol-5(4H)-ones with nitroolefins and N-fluorobenzenesulfonimide (NFSI) has been developed. By using a bifunctional chiral tertiary amino-thiourea catalyst, a series of chiral fluorinated isoxazol-5(4H)-ones containing one fluorine-substituted quarternary stereocenter were obtained in high yields with high enantio- and diastereoselectivities. Further transformation of adducts could afford isoxazolidin-5-one derivatives with three contiguous stereocenters.

An interesting gold(I)-catalyzed intramolecular hydroamination and ring-opening of sulfonamide-substituted 2-(arylmethylene)cyclopropylcarbinols has been described in this context. A variety of 4-substituted isoxazolidine derivatives were obtained in good to high yields through a highly regioselective cleavage of a carbon-carbon single bond in the cyclopropane.

Bromodomains are epigenetic reader modules that regulate gene transcription through their recognition of acetyl-lysine modified histone tails. Inhibitors of this protein-protein interaction have the potential to modulate multiple diseases as demonstrated by the profound anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects of a recently disclosed class of BET compounds. While these compounds were discovered using phenotypic assays, here we present a highly efficient alternative approach to find new chemical templates, exploiting the abundant structural knowledge that exists for this target class. A phenyl dimethyl isoxazole chemotype resulting from a focused fragment screen has been rapidly optimized through structure-based design, leading to a sulfonamide series showing anti-inflammatory activity in cellular assays. This proof-of-principle experiment demonstrates the tractability of the BET family and bromodomain target class to fragment-based hit discovery and structure-based lead optimization.

The aim of the present study was to prepare valdecoxib, a cyclo-oxygenase-2 enzyme inhibitor, as a loaded multiparticulate system to achieve site-specific drug delivery to colorectal tumors. Film coating was done with the pH-sensitive polymer Eudragit S100 and sodium alginate was used as mucoadhesive polymer in the core. The microspheres were characterized by X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and were evaluated for particle size, drug load, in vitro drug release, release kinetics, accelerated stability, and extent of mucoadhesion. The coated microspheres released the drug at pH 7.4, the putative parameter for colonic delivery. When applied to the mucosal surface of freshly excised goat colon, microspheres pretreated with phosphate buffer pH 7.4 for 30 minutes showed mucoadhesion. To ascertain the effect of valdecoxib on the viability of Caco-2 cells, the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl) 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test was conducted using both valdecoxib and coated microspheres. In both cases, the percentage of dehydrogenase activity indicated a lack of toxicity against Caco-2 cells in the tested concentration range. Drug transport studies of the drug as well as the coated microspheres in buffers of pH 6 and 7.4 across Caco-2 cell monolayers were conducted. The microspheres were found to exhibit slower and delayed drug release and lower intracellular concentration of valdecoxib.

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the enthalpy relaxation behavior of valdecoxib (VLB) and etoricoxib (ETB) and their binary dispersions to derive relaxation constants and to understand their molecular mobilities., Methods: Solid dispersions of VLB and ETB were prepared with 1%, 2%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% (w/w) concentrations of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in situ using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Enthalpy relaxation studies were carried out with isothermal storage periods of 1, 2, 4, 6, 16, and 24 hours at 40°C and 0% relative humidity (RH)., Results: PVP increased the glass transition temperature (T(g)) and decreased the enthalpy relaxation. Significant differences between two drugs were observed with respect to their relaxation behavior which may be due to differences in intermolecular interactions as predicted by Couchman-Karasz equation and molecular mobility. Kohlrausch-Williams-Watts equation was found to be inadequate in describing complex molecular relaxations in binary dispersions. The enthalpy relaxation behavior of VLB and ETB was found to be significantly different. PVP stabilized VLB significantly; however, its effect on ETB was negligible. The extent of enthalpy relaxation was found to correlate with hydrogen bonding tendency of the drug molecules., Conclusion: The outcome can help in rational designing of amorphous systems with optimal performance.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are widely used therapeutic agents in the treatment of inflammation, pain and fever. Cyclooxygenase catalyzes the initial step of biotransformation of arachidonic acid to prostanoids, and exist as three distinct isozymes; COX-I, COX-II and COX-III. Selective COX-II inhibitors are a class of potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic drugs with reduced gastrointestinal (GI) side effects compared to nonselective inhibitors. 3,4-Diarylisoxazole scaffold is recurrently found in a wide variety of NSAIDs, protein kinase inhibitors, hypertensive agents, and estrogen receptor (ER) modulators. In the present review, we document on the recent synthetic strategies of 3,4-diarylisoxazolyl scaffolds of valdecoxib and its relevant structural analogues., (Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

Purification of the mitochondrial enzyme responsible for reduction of N-hydroxylated amidine prodrugs led to the identification of two newly discovered mammalian molybdenum-containing proteins, the mitochondrial amidoxime reducing components mARC-1 and mARC-2 (Gruenewald et al., 2008). These 35-kDa proteins represent a novel group of molybdenum proteins in eukaryotes as they form a molybdenum cofactor-dependent enzyme system consisting of three separate proteins (Havemeyer et al., 2006). Each mARC protein reduces N-hydroxylated compounds after reconstitution with the electron transport proteins cytochrome b(5) and b(5) reductase. In continuation of our drug metabolism investigations (Havemeyer et al., 2006; Gruenewald et al., 2008), we present data from reconstituted enzyme systems with recombinant human and native porcine enzymes showing the reduction of N-hydroxy-sulfonamides (sulfohydroxamic acids) to sulfonamides: the N-hydroxy-sulfonamide N-hydroxy-valdecoxib (N-hydroxy-4-[5-methyl-3-phenyl-4-isoxazolyl]-benzenesulfonamide) represents a novel cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitor and is therefore a drug candidate in the treatment of diseases associated with rheumatic inflammation, pain, and fever. It was synthesized as an analog of the known COX-2 inhibitor valdecoxib (4-[5-methyl-3-phenyl-4-isoxazolyl]-benzenesulfonamide) (Talley et al., 2000). N-Hydroxy-valdecoxib had low in vitro COX-2 activity but showed significant analgesic activity in vivo and a prolonged therapeutic effect compared with valdecoxib (Erdélyi et al., 2008). In this report, we demonstrate that N-hydroxy-valdecoxib is enzymatically reduced to its pharmacologically active metabolite valdecoxib. Thus, N-hydroxy-valdecoxib acts as prodrug that is activated by the molybdenum-containing enzyme mARC.

COX-2 inhibitors have demonstrated beneficial effects in colorectal cancer. The purpose of this study was to prepare and evaluate the colon specific microspheres of COX-2 inhibitors using valdecoxib as a model drug. Mucoadhesive core microspheres were prepared using chitosan as polymer and entrapped within Eudragit S 100 for colon targeting. FTIR spectrum of selected, coated microspheres showed peaks of valdecoxib at 3377, 3250, 1334 and 1155 cm(-1). XRD showed amorphous character and DSC showed depressed broad endotherm of valdecoxib at 169.07 degrees C, which may be attributed to dilution effect by the amorphous polymer. The coated microspheres were spherical with an average size of 90 mum. Storage of the microspheres at 40 degrees C/75% relative humidity for 6 months indicated no significant drug degradation. The coated microspheres did neither release the drug in acidic pH of stomach (pH 1.2) nor in small intestinal pH between 5 to 6.8, and the release started at pH 7.4, indicting perfect colonic delivery. The coated microspheres pretreated with phosphate buffer pH 7.4 for 30 min, when applied to mucosal surface of freshly excised goat colon, showed good mucoadhesion. The drug release at pH 7.4 and good mucoadhesive property of the microspheres make the system ideal for colonic delivery.

Targeting host factors is a complementary strategy for the development of new antiviral drugs. We screened a library of isoxazolidine and isoxazole sulfonamides and found four compounds that inhibited HIV-1 infection in human CD4+ lymphocytic T cells with no toxicity at IC(90) concentrations. Structure-activity relationship showed that benzyl sulfonamides and a halo-substituted aromatic ring on the heterocycle scaffold were critical for antiretroviral activity. The size and position of the incorporated halogen had a marked effect on the antiretroviral activity. The sulfonamide derivatives had no significant effect on HIV-1 entry, reverse transcription and integration but impaired a step necessary for activation of viral gene expression. This step was Tat-independent, strongly suggesting that the target is a cell factor. A virus partially resistant to the least potent compounds could be selected but could not be propagated in the long term, consistent with the possibility that HIV-1 may be less likely to develop resistance against drugs targeting some host factors. Here, we provide evidence that novel synthetic methods can be applied to develop small molecules with antiretroviral activity that target host factors important for HIV-1 replication.

A series of CCK2R-selective anthranilic amides is shown to derive CCK1R affinity via selective substitution of the amide side chain. Thus, extending the length of the original benzamide side chain by a single methylene unit imparts CCK1R affinity to the series, and further fine tuning of the affinity results in CCK1R selectivity of greater than 100-fold.

In the previous article we demonstrated how certain CCK2R-selective anthranilic amides could be structurally modified to afford high-affinity, selective CCK1R activity. We now describe our efforts at modulating and optimizing the CCK1R and CCK2R affinities aimed at producing compounds with good pharmacokinetics properties and in vivo efficacy in rat models of gastric acid and pancreatic amylase secretion.

The regioselective 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of alpha-bromo-pentafluorophenyl vinylsulfonate with nitrile oxides has been used to rapidly access a range of 3,5-isoxazoles which could be converted directly to their corresponding sulfonamides.

A series of 3-substituted and 3,5-disubstituted isoxazoles have been efficiently synthesized in moderate to excellent yields by the reaction of N-hydroxyl-4-toluenesulfonamide with alpha,beta-unsaturated aldehydes/ketones. This novel strategy is associated with readily available starting materials, mild conditions, high regioselectivity, and wide scope.

Physical stability studies of valdecoxib (VLB) and its solid dispersions with PVP (1, 2, 5, 10, 15 and 20% w/w) were carried out by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). Change in specific heat with time was measured to determine the degree of crystallinity of amorphous drug and its binary dispersions after storage at 40 degrees C and 75% RH. The rate of crystallization was found to decrease with increasing PVP concentration and time for 10% crystallization (t90%) was found to increase significantly for the amorphous drug when formulated as PVP dispersions. Enthalpy relaxation was found to be inversely correlated with t90% (min) values and was found to be a good predictor of devitrification tendency and hence stability of amorphous VLB.

The inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes plays an important role in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. N-Hydroxy-4-(5-methyl-3-phenylisoxazol-4-yl)benzenesulfonamide (3)-a primary metabolite of the highly selective COX-2 inhibitor valdecoxib-was synthesized and stabilized as its monohydrate (3a.H(2)O). The anti-inflammatory properties of 3a.H(2)O were investigated in carrageenan-induced edema and in acute and chronic pain models. Based on our biological investigation, we conclude that N-hydroxy-valdecoxib 3a is an active metabolite of valdecoxib.

Valdecoxib is an NSAID that is selective for COX-2 (commonly named coxibs). It exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic properties in animal models and humans due to inhibition of prostanoid synthesis primarily by affecting COX-2. In this review, the clinical results of cardiovascular effects of valdecoxib and its prodrug parecoxib were analyzed and the information from animal models and clinical pharmacology was exploited, that is, pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic data, to give a mechanistic interpretation. Similarly to other coxibs and some traditional (t)NSAIDs less selective for COX-2, such as diclofenac, valdecoxib may increase the risk of thrombotic events through a prostacyclin-based mechanism. The rapid and elevated thrombotic risk detected in two coronary artery bypass graft surgery trials with parecoxib and valdecoxib is coherent with almost complete suppression of COX-2 by supratherapeutic doses (particularly parecoxib), which plausibly translates into a deep suppression of prostacyclin. Drug potency, that is, the degree of suppression of COX-2-dependent prostacyclin, is proposed to represent a strong determinant in the increased incidence of thrombotic events associated with the use of COX-2 inhibitors and some tNSAIDs.

A large number of functionally substituted 2-alkyn-1-one O-methyl oximes have been cyclized under mild reaction conditions in the presence of ICl to give the corresponding 4-iodoisoxazoles in moderate to excellent yields. The resulting 4-iodoisoxazoles undergo various palladium-catalyzed reactions to yield 3,4,5-trisubstituted isoxazoles, including valdecoxib.

The solubility behavior of solid dispersions of two drugs with similar structures was studied. Valdecoxib (VLB) and etoricoxib (ETB) were used as model drugs, and their solid dispersions were prepared with 1, 2, 5, 10, 15, and 20% w/w poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) by the quench cooling method. The interactions between the drug and polymer molecules were studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The thermodynamic aspects of solubility behavior were studied by plotting van't Hoff plots. Both the drugs showed significant differences in their solubility behavior. In the case of VLB, solubility was found to increase significantly with increasing PVP concentration. ETB however did not show any significant solubility enhancement and was found to have decreased solubility at high PVP concentrations. H-bonding interactions were established between VLB and PVP molecules, while none were observed in ETB-PVP dispersions. Solution thermodynamics of amorphous and crystalline forms of both the drugs were studied by van't Hoff plots. The results obtained showed very high negative value of Gibbs free energy for VLB as compared to ETB, thus demonstrating high spontaneity of VLB solubilization. Entropy of amorphous VLB was found to be highly favorable, while being slightly unfavorable for ETB. From this study H-bonding interactions were found to play a major role in dictating the solubility behavior of these drugs from solid dispersions.

Valdecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, produces serious side effects when given orally. This has led to its withdrawal. Topical application of valdecoxib was formulated and evaluated for its efficacy and safety. Standard procedures were followed and male Wistar albino rats were used to test the anti-inflammatory effect and effect in hyperalgesic conditions. Ointments, creams, and gels containing valdecoxib 1% (m/m) were prepared. These were tested for physical appearance, pH, spreadability, drug content uniformity, in vitro diffusion. Gel prepared using Carbopol 940 (F-X) was selected after the analysis of the results. Formulation F-X was evaluated for acute skin irritancy, anti-inflammatory effect, optimum effective concentration of valdecoxib, effect on hyperalgesia, inhibition of the granulation tissue formation and anti-arthritic effect. Determination of valdecoxib in test animals plasma and determining the blood clotting time and bleeding time were conducted to study the safety of topical valdecoxib. Valdecoxib gel containing 1% (m/m) of the drug was significantly (p < 0.05) more effective in inhibiting hyperalgesia associated with inflammation, compared to placebo gel, but exhibited significantly (p < 0.05) lower suppression of inflammation than commercial rofecoxib gel. Concentration of valdecoxib used in the preparation minimizes the risk of systemic effects, as shown by the analysis of rat plasma for the presence of valdecoxib; hence, this may be the alternative to oral preparations. The bleeding and clotting time showed no significant difference before and after application of F-X.

2-{Butyryl-[2'-(4,5-dimethyl-isoxazol-3-ylsulfamoyl)-biphenyl-4-ylmethyl]-amino}-N-isopropyl-3-methyl-butyramide (BMS-1) is a potent dual acting angiotensin-1 and endothelin-A receptor antagonist. The compound was subject to rapid metabolic clearance in monkey and human liver microsomes and exhibited low systemic exposure and marked interanimal variability in cynomolgus monkeys after p.o. administration. The variability pattern was identical to that of midazolam given p.o. in the same monkeys, as measured by area under the curve and Cmax values, suggesting that CYP3A-mediated metabolism might play a role in the rapid clearance and observed interanimal variability. Subsequent in vitro metabolism studies using human liver microsomes and cDNA-expressed human cytochrome P450 (P450) enzymes revealed that BMS-1 was a CYP3A4 substrate and was not metabolized by other human P450 enzymes. Mass spectral and NMR analyses of key metabolites led to the identification of the dimethyl isoxazole group as a major metabolic soft spot for BMS-1. Replacement of the 4-methyl group on the isoxazole ring with halogens not only improved overall metabolic stability but also decreased CYP3A-mediated hydroxylation of the isoxazole 5-methyl group. As exemplified by 2-{butyryl-[2'-(4-fluoro-5-methyl-isoxazol-3-ylsulfamoyl)-biphenyl-4-ylmethyl]-amino}-N-isopropyl-3-methyl-butyramide (BMS-3), a fluorinated analog of BMS-1, the structural modification resulted in an increase in the systemic exposure relative to previous analogs and a dramatic reduction in interanimal variability in the monkeys after p.o. administration. In addition, BMS-3 could be metabolized by both CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, thus avoiding the reliance on a single P450 enzyme for metabolic clearance. Integration of results obtained from in vitro metabolism studies and in vivo pharmacokinetic evaluations enabled the modulation of site-specific CYP3A-mediated metabolism, yielding analogs with improved overall metabolic profiles.

Valdecoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used in the treatment of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. It is practically insoluble in water. Incidence of adverse events such as nausea has been reported in some trials. Therefore, an attempt was made to improve the aqueous solubility of the drug by making an inclusion complex using hydroxypropyl beta-cyclodextrin (HPbeta-CD). The complexes were prepared by physical mixture and freeze-drying methods. The different methods employed for evaluation--including differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectral analysis, and scanning electron microscopy studies--indicated complete formation of the complex by the freeze-drying method in a molar ratio of 1:1. The prepared complexes showed an improved in vitro dissolution profile and better anti-inflammatory activity as compared to the pure drug.

Nanostructured Lipid Carrier (NLC)-based topical gel of Valdecoxib was formulated with the aim of faster onset yet prolonged action for the treatment of inflammation and allied conditions. NLCs prepared by microemulsion template technique were characterized by photon correlation spectroscopy for size. Drug encapsulation efficiency was determined using Nanosep centrifugal device. The nanoparticulate dispersion was suitably gelled and characterized with respect to drug content, pH, spreadibility, rheology, and in-vitro release. Safety of the NLC-based gel was assessed using primary skin irritation studies, and efficacy was confirmed using pharmacodynamic study, namely the Aerosil-induced Rat Paw edema model. The developed NLC-based gel showed faster onset and elicited prolonged activity up to 24 hours.

This article investigates enhancement of the dissolution profile of valdecoxib using solid dispersion with PVP. The article also describes the preparation of fast-dissolving tablets of valdecoxib by using a high amount of superdisintegrants. A phase solubility method was used to evaluate the effect of various water-soluble polymers on aqueous solubility of valdecoxib. Polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP K-30) was selected and solid dispersions were prepared by the method of kneading. Dissolution studies using the USP paddle method were performed for solid dispersions of valdecoxib. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and x-ray diffractometry (XRD) were performed to identify the physicochemical interaction between drug and carrier, hence its effect on dissolution. Tablets were formulated containing solid dispersion products and compared with commercial products. IR spectroscopy, XRD, and DSC showed no change in the crystal structure of valdecoxib. Dissolution of valdecoxib improved significantly in solid dispersion products (< 85% in 5 minutes). Tablets containing solid dispersion exhibited better dissolution profile than commercial tablets. Thus, the solid dispersion technique can be successfully used for improvement of dissolution of valdecoxib.

Mechanism of interaction of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, celecoxib and valdecoxib with human serum albumin has been studied using fluorescence spectroscopic technique. There was only one high affinity site on serum albumin for both the drugs with association constants of the order of 10(4) in the case of celecoxib and 10(5) in the case of valdecoxib. Thermodynamic parameters for the binding indicated that hydrogen bonding interactions are predominantly involved in the binding of these drugs to human serum albumin. Binding studies in the presence of hydrophobic probe, 1-anilinonaphthalene-8-sulfonate (ANS) suggested that the mode of interaction of drugs and ANS with HSA is different and hydrophobic interactions are not primarily involved in the binding. Studies carried out in the presence of site-specific probe showed that drugs are bound at site II and phenolic oxygen of (411)Tyr is involved in binding. Stern-Volmer analysis of the quenching data indicated that predominantly static quenching mechanism is operative and the tryptophan residues of albumin are fully accessible to celecoxib and only partially accessible to valdecoxib. The presence of salt caused a decrease in the association constant and significant increase in the concentration of free drug.

In the present study, the solubilizing and amorphizing properties of Valdecoxib (a poorly water soluble anti inflammatory drug) with low molecular weight chitosan (a polymer), have been investigated. Binary systems of varying drug/polymer ratios were prepared using different techniques (physical mixing, co-grinding, kneading) and were tested for dissolution. Drug carrier interactions were investigated in both the liquid and solid state, by phase solubility analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffractrometry, FT-IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The solubility of the drug increased with increasing polymer concentration showing A(N) type phase solubility diagram. Differential scanning calorimetry, powder X-ray diffractrometry and scanning electron microscopic studies of binary systems suggested generation of amorphous form of drug (in kneading and co ground mixtures). IR spectroscopy revealed the presence of hydrogen bonding in kneading and co ground mixtures. Drug dissolution was improved with increasing the polymer concentration in the mixture (Kneaded>co ground>physical mixture), which was attributed to the amorphonization and/or decreased drug crystallinity, size and polymer wetting effect. Enhanced dissolution combined with its direct compression feasibility and anti ulcerogenic action results in low molecular weight chitosan for developing fast release oral solid dosage forms of valdecoxib.

A stability-indicating forced-degradation study of valdecoxib was conducted using high performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). It was used to analyze valdecoxib as bulk drug and as tablets. Undegraded valdecoxib was eluted with a retardation factor, Rf, of 0.56. Valdecoxib was forcibly degraded by exposure to alkali, acid, oxidation, and light, the greatest degradation occurring under basic conditions. Base-degraded valdecoxib gave an additional peak with an Rf value of 0.76. The calibration curve was linear in the range of 0.2-1 microg/microL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9952. Complete validation was carried out for precision (inter-day, intra-day, repeatability), accuracy, and robustness. All the data were analyzed statistically. This HPTLC procedure shows the reliability needed for use as a stability-indicating method. It can quantify valdecoxib in bulk and in tablets and also resolves the degraded peak of valdecoxib. This method is also useful for studying the degradation pattern and degradation mechanism of valdecoxib.

The high resolution X-ray crystal structure of the adduct of human carbonic anhydrase (CA, EC 4.2.1.1) isoform II (hCA II) with the clinically used painkiller valdecoxib, acting as a potent CA II and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, is reported. The ionized sulfonamide moiety of valdecoxib is coordinated to the catalytic Zn(II) ion with a tetrahedral geometry. The phenyl-isoxazole moiety of the inhibitor fills the active site channel and interacts with the side chains of Gln92, Val121, Leu198, Thr200, and Pro202. Its 3-phenyl group is located into a hydrophobic pocket, simultaneously establishing van der Waals interactions with the aliphatic side chain of various hydrophobic residues (Val135, Ile91, Val121, Leu198, and Leu141) and a strong offset face-to-face stacking interaction with the aromatic ring of Phe131 (the chi1 angle of which is rotated about 90 degrees with respect to what was observed in the structure of the native enzyme and those of other sulfonamide complexes). Celecoxib, a structurally related COX-2 inhibitor for which the X-ray crystal structure was reported earlier, binds in a completely different manner to hCA II as compared to valdecoxib. Celecoxib completely fills the entire CA II active site, with its trifluoromethyl group in the hydrophobic part of the active site and the p-tolyl moiety in the hydrophilic one, not establishing any interaction with Phe131. In contrast to celecoxib, valdecoxib was rotated about 90 degrees around the chemical bond connecting the benzensulfonamide and the substituted isoxazole ring allowing for these multiple favorable interactions. These different binding modes allow for the further drug design of various CA inhibitors belonging to the benzenesulfonamide class.

The influence of natural beta-cyclodextrin and its hydrophilic derivatives (HPbetaCd and SBE7betaCd) on the in vitro dissolution rate, in vivo absorption and oral bioavailability of a poorly water soluble anti-inflammatory agent, valdecoxib (VALD) was studied. Equimolar drug-cyclodextrin solid complexes were prepared by kneading and coevaporation methods and characterized by infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction. In the liquid state, the cyclodextrin complexes were studied using phase solubility analysis, (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance and circular dichroism spectroscopy. Drug solubility and dissolution rate in distilled water were notably improved by employing the betaCds. The DP(15) (i.e. percent of dissolved VALD at 15 min) was 10.5% for the pure drug and 50, 91 and 93% for VALD-betaCd, VALD-HPbetaCd and VALD-SBE7betaCd complexes, respectively. Moreover, it was found that in the, the cyclodextrin complexes of drug showed significant improvement in the anti-inflammatory activity.

In a previous report we demonstrated that merging together key structural elements present in an AT(1) receptor antagonist (1, irbesartan) with key structural elements in a biphenylsulfonamide ET(A) receptor antagonist (2) followed by additional optimization provided compound 3 as a dual-action receptor antagonist (DARA), which potently blocked both AT(1) and ET(A) receptors. Described herein are our efforts directed toward improving both the pharmacokinetic profile as well as the AT(1) and ET(A) receptor potency of 3. Our efforts centered on modifying the 2'-side chain of 3 and examining the isoxazolylsulfonamide moiety in 3. This effort resulted in the discovery of 7 as a highly potent second-generation DARA. Compound 7 also showed substantially improved pharmacokinetic properties compared to 3. In rats, DARA 7 reduced blood pressure elevations caused by intravenous infusion of Ang II or big ET-1 to a greater extent and with longer duration than DARA 3 or AT(1) or ET(A) receptor antagonists alone. Compound 7 clearly demonstrated superiority over irbesartan (an AT(1) receptor antagonist) in the normal SHR model of hypertension in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating the synergy of AT(1) and ET(A) receptor blockade in a single molecule.

The aim of the present study was to enhance the dissolution rate of valdecoxib using its solid dispersions (SDs) with polyethylene glycol (PEG) 4000. The phase solubility behavior of valdecoxib in the presence of various concentrations of PEG 4000 in water was obtained at 37 degrees C. The solubility of valdecoxib increased with increasing amount of PEG 4000 in water. Gibbs free energy (deltaG(zero)tr) values were all negative, indicating the spontaneous nature of valdecoxib solubilization, and they decreased with increase in the PEG 4000 concentration, demonstrating that the reaction conditions became more favorable as the concentration of PEG 4000 increased. The SDs of valdecoxib with PEG 4000 were prepared at 1:1, 1:2, 1:5, and 1:10 (valdecoxib: PEG 4000) ratio by melting method. Evaluation of the properties of the SDs was performed by using dissolution, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies. The SDs of valdecoxib with PEG 4000 exhibited enhanced dissolution rate of valdecoxib, and the rate increased with increasing concentration of PEG 4000 in SDs. Mean dissolution time (MDT) of valdecoxib decreased significantly after preparation of SDs and physical mixture with PEG 4000. The FTIR spectroscopic studies showed the stability of valdecoxib and absence of well-defined valdecoxib-PEG 4000 interaction. The DSC and XRD studies indicated the amorphous state of valdecoxib in SDs of valdecoxib with PEG 4000. The SEM pictures showed the formation of effective SDs of valdecoxib with PEG 4000, since well-defined changes in the surface nature of valdecoxib, SDs, and physical mixture were observed.

Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is up-regulated in stromal and inflammatory cells. The inducible COX-2 isoform is expressed during inflammation, in some cancers, and in brain tissue after global and focal ischemia. Tissue acidosis is a dominant factor in inflammation, and contributes to pain and hyperalgesia. Recently, compelling epidemiological and clinical evidence has documented the COX-independent effects of some COX-2 inhibitors (i.e., celecoxib, valdecoxib, and rofecoxib); among these effects are carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibition. Carbonic anhydrases are zinc metalloenzymes expressed in various cell types, including those of the kidney, where they act as general acid-base catalysts. The kidneys are also known to express the highest concentration of COX-2 messenger ribonucleic acid. Celecoxib, like the prototypic CA inhibitor acetazolamide, is structurally characterized by an unsubstituted sulfonamide moiety. In the present study, we report that celecoxib exhibits the characteristics of a potent CA inhibitor, showing inhibitory human carbonic anhydrase II (hCAII) activity in the nanomolar range. Valdecoxib was relatively less potent. Rofecoxib, which lacks the unsubstituted sulfonamide moiety characteristic of CA inhibitors, showed no significant hCAII inhibitory activity. The current study corroborates our earlier report of structure-activity relationships as predictors of such metabolic events as hyperchloremia, acidosis, and changes in calcium and phosphate disposition; and clinical manifestations associated with CA inhibition reported with celecoxib. These data showing inhibition of hCAII by the unsubstituted sulfonamides celecoxib and valdecoxib, but not by rofecoxib, may have important implications for the elucidation of the mechanisms of action as well as the side effects associated with COX-2 inhibitors.

3,4-Diarylisoxazole analogues of valdecoxib [4-(5-methyl-3-phenylisoxazol-4-yl)-benzensulfonamide], a selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor, were synthesized by 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of arylnitrile oxides to the enolate ion of phenylacetone regioselectively prepared in situ with lithium diisopropylamide at 0 degrees C. The corresponding 3-aryl-5-methyl-4-phenylisoxazoles were easily generated by a dehydration/aromatization reaction under basic conditions of 3-aryl-5-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-phenyl-2-isoxazolines and further transformed into their benzenesulfonamide derivatives. The biochemical COX-1/COX-2 selectivity was evaluated in vitro by using the human whole blood assays of COX isozyme activity. Three compounds not bearing the sulfonamide group present in valdecoxib were selective COX-1 inhibitors.

Formulation of poorly water-soluble drugs in the most stable dosage form for oral delivery perhaps presents the greatest challenge to pharmaceutical industry. Physical transformation of drug substance into its more soluble but metastable amorphous form is one of the approaches for improving dissolution rate of such drugs. The present study utilizes technique of spray drying for preparation of solid dispersions (SDs) and includes stability study of the same. Valdecoxib (VLD), a prototype of poorly water-soluble drugs, has been the drug of choice. The hydrophilic carriers selected were polyvinylpyrrolidone K30 (PVP) and hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC). SDs and pure VLD in the form of spray dried powder (SDVLD) in comparison with pure drug and corresponding physical mixtures (PMs) were initially characterized and then subjected to stability testing at ambient temperature and relative humidity up to 3 months. During initial characterization, increase in saturation solubility and dissolution rate was observed in all samples. DSC and XRPD studies of SDVLD and SDs suggested generation of amorphous form of drug. IR spectroscopy revealed presence of hydrogen bonding in SDs. During stability testing, there was gradual decrease in saturation solubility and dissolution rate of SDs, over the period of 3 months. While, saturation solubility of SDVLD dropped drastically within 15 days and was almost comparable with pure VLD. SD PVP retained the amorphous form of drug throughout stability period, whereas SD HPC and SDVLD presented incidence of crystallinity after 1 month and 15 days, respectively. This was justified by enthalpy relaxation studies in which, amorphous VLD showed considerable relaxation of enthalpy at Tg, while it was totally suppressed in SD PVP and partly in SD HPC. The study thus definitely reveals tremendous potential of solid dispersions of valdecoxib with PVP, from stability point of view.

Valdecoxib is a potent COX-2 inhibitor. During metabolism studies of valdecoxib by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry, we observed a novel mass spectral rearrangement involving an isoxazole ring for some of the metabolites in the negative ion mode. Accurate mass measurements were performed with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry to determine the elemental compositions of the fragments. Additionally, two types of stable-isotope labeled analogues were prepared to assist with the assignments of these fragments and possible mechanistic rearrangements resulting from collision-induced dissociation (CID). Detailed analyses of the CID mass spectra suggest that the fragmentation process involves a novel two-step rearrangement. The first step consists of an intramolecular SN2 reaction with a five-membered ring rearrangement to form an intermediate. The second step involves a four-membered ring intramolecular rearrangement followed by a cleavage of the N-O bond on the isoxazole ring to form a unique fragment ion at m/z 196. The same phenomenon was observed for a group of structurally related metabolites that also contain a 5-hydroxymethyl or 5-carboxylic acid moieties. A mechanism for the novel rearrangement involving an isoxazole ring is proposed., (Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

By optimizing binding to a selected target protein, modern drug research strives to develop safe and efficacious agents for the treatment of disease. Selective drug action is intended to minimize undesirable side effects from scatter pharmacology. Celecoxib (Celebrex), valdecoxib (Bextra), and rofecoxib (Vioxx) are nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) due to selective inhibition of inducible cyclooxygenase COX-2 while sparing inhibition of constitutive COX-1. While rofecoxib contains a methyl sulfone constituent, celecoxib and valdecoxib possess an unsubstituted arylsulfonamide moiety. The latter group is common to many carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitors. Using enzyme kinetics and X-ray crystallography, we demonstrate an unexpected nanomolar affinity of the COX-2 specific arylsulfonamide-type celecoxib and valdecoxib for isoenzymes of the totally unrelated carbonic anhydrase (CA) family, such as CA I, II, IV, and IX, whereas the rofecoxib methyl sulfone-type has no effect. When administered orally to glaucomatous rabbits, celecoxib and valdecoxib lowered intraocular pressure, suggesting that these agents may have utility in the treatment of this disorder. The crystal structure of celecoxib in complex with CA II reveals part of this inhibition to be mediated via binding of the sulfonamide group to the catalytic zinc of CA II. To investigate the structural basis for cross-reactivity of these compounds between COX-2 and CA II, we compared the molecular recognition properties of both protein binding pockets in terms of local physicochemical similarities among binding site-exposed amino acids accommodating different portions of the drug molecules. Our approach Cavbase, implemented into Relibase, detects similarities between the sites, suggesting some potential to predict unexpected cross-reactivity of drugs among functionally unrelated target proteins. The observed cross-reactivity with CAs may also contribute to differences in the pharmacological profiles, in particular with respect to glaucoma and anticancer therapy and may suggest new opportunities of these COX-2 selective NSAIDs.

The ET(A) receptor antagonist (2) (N-(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)-4'-(2-oxazolyl)-[1,1'-biphenyl]-2-sulfonamide, BMS-193884) shares the same biphenyl core as a large number of AT(1) receptor antagonists, including irbesartan (3). Thus, it was hypothesized that merging the structural elements of 2 with those of the biphenyl AT(1) antagonists (e.g., irbesartan) would yield a compound with dual activity for both receptors. This strategy led to the design, synthesis, and discovery of (15) (4'-[(2-butyl-4-oxo-1,3-diazaspiro[4.4]non-1-en-3-yl)methyl]-N-(3,4-dimethyl-5-isoxazolyl)-2'-[(3,3-dimethyl-2-oxo-1-pyrrolidinyl)methyl]-[1,1'-biphenyl]-2-sulfonamide, BMS-248360) as a potent and orally active dual antagonist of both AT(1) and ET(A) receptors. Compound 15 represents a new approach to treating hypertension.

In ten large, well-controlled, randomised trials (n = 203 to 1089), valdecoxib, a selective inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase-2, was significantly more effective than placebo in the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and pain associated with primary dysmenorrhoea, and for postsurgical analgesia. Valdecoxib 1.25 to 10mg twice daily and valdecoxib 10mg once daily were more effective than placebo for the relief of pain in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, and dosages above 5mg twice daily were similar in efficacy to naproxen 500mg twice daily. Similarly, valdecoxib 5 and 10 mg/day were as effective for osteoarthritis of the hip as naproxen 500mg twice daily. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, valdecoxib 10, 20 or 40 mg/day was significantly more effective than placebo, and similar in efficacy to naproxen 500mg twice daily; there were no significant differences in efficacy between the three dosages of valdecoxib. Valdecoxib 20 or 40mg administered 1 to 3 hours before and 12, 24 and 36 hours after hip arthroplasty provided significantly better analgesia than placebo, and significantly reduced the amount of morphine taken by patients. Single doses of valdecoxib 10 to 80mg administered before foot or oral surgery provided significantly better analgesia than placebo; when administered after oral surgery, valdecoxib 20 or 40mg provided greater sustained analgesia than oxycodone 10mg/paracetamol 1000mg or rofecoxib 50mg. In contrast to three nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), valdecoxib 40mg twice daily did not cause significant changes in platelet function and bleeding times. Chronic users of NSAIDs who were switched to valdecoxib 10 or 20 mg/day for 12 weeks experienced significantly fewer gastroduodenal erosions or ulcers than patients receiving ibuprofen 2400 mg/day or diclofenac 150 mg/day for 12 weeks. Valdecoxib was generally well tolerated in clinical trials, with a similar incidence of adverse events to placebo.

Sitaxsentan (3, TBC11251) (Wu et al. J. Med. Chem. 1997, 40, 1690) is an orally active ET(A) selective endothelin antagonist that attenuates pulmonary vascular hypertension and cardiac hypertrophy in rats (Tilton et al. Pulm. Pharmacol. Ther. 2000, 13, 87). It has demonstrated efficacy in a phase II clinical trial for congestive heart failure (Givertz et al. Circulation 2000, 101, 2922). During the discovery of 3, we observed several structure-oral bioavailability relationships. To investigate whether there is any generality in these trends, we synthesized some similar pairs of compounds in the latest series (Wu et al. J. Med. Chem. 1999, 42, 4485) and evaluated their oral properties. In both series, an acyl group at the 2-position of the anilide of these thiophene sulfonamides improved oral bioavailability. As a result of this exercise, TBC3214 (17) was identified as a sitaxsentan follow-on candidate. It is very potent (IC(50) for ET(A) = 40 pM) and highly selective for ET(A) vs ET(B) receptors (400 000-fold), with a half-life of >4 h and oral bioavailability of 25% in rats, 42% in cats, and 70% in dogs.