A phase I clinical trial of a nitro-aspirin derivative has started in France. Nicox, the manufacturer, says that preclinical data indicate that the drug (NCX4016) is well tolerated. It has good gastric safety, a broader antithrombotic activity than aspirin and has protective properties in models of myocardial infarction, the company claims. It is also more potent than aspirin for pain in animal models, Nicox adds.
NCX4016 is a member of the nitric oxide-non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NO-NSAID) family, which contain a nitric oxide moiety attached to a conventional NSAID. Release of the NO moiety is intended to protect the gastric mucosa (PJ 1999;262:884).