A double-blind study of the simple analgesic nefopam in rheumatoid arthritis.
The role of pure analgesics in the management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains uncertain. In a double-blind cross-over study of 27 patients, nefopam was a more effective analgesic than placebo when given as a supplement to anti-inflammatory drugs. Both early morning stiffness and grip strength were also improved, suggesting that these are associated with pain perception rather than any other aspect of inflammation. Side-effects occurred in 9 (35%) on nefopam and none on placebo. The results suggest a valuable supplementary role for analgesics such as nefopam in the treatment of RA.
D000700:Analgesics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009340:Nefopam / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010079:Oxazocines / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000700:Analgesics; D010079:Oxazocines; D009340:Nefopam