Section 2 Comparative clinical trial of three propionic acid derivatives(ibuprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen) in rheumatic diseases

Summary

A comparative study was carried out in 30 patients with rheumatic disease to assess the effectiveness and tolerance of 1200 mg. ibuprofen, 300 mg. ketoprofen, and 1000 mg. naproxen daily. The trial lasted 2 months, ibuprofen and ketoprofen being given in alternating 15-day periods to 15 of the patients, and ibuprofen and naproxen given similarly to the other 15 patients. The results, as assessed by patients and physician, showed similar efficacy against pain for all three drugs, with a slight tendency in favour of ibuprofen. Ibuprofen was much better tolerated and even allowed a return to normal in some patients with gastric intolerance of the other drugs. Overall assessment of treatment showed a clear patient preference for ibuprofen.

Key Words::

• Ibuprofen
• ketoprofen
• naproxen
• anti-inflammatory agents
• arthritis