A clinical evaluation of piroxicam gel: an open comparative trial with diclofenac gel in the treatment of acute musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract

An open, parallel trial was conducted to compare the efficacy and toleration of piroxicam 0.5% gel and diclofenac 1.16% topical gel preparations in the treatment of 173 patients with well-defined, acute sprains and tendinitis of the ankle, shoulder, or elbow. Therapy was begun within three to five days of the injury and continued for up to 14 days. Piroxicam gel was applied to the injured area four times daily by 84 patients and diclofenac gel was similarly applied by 89 patients. Pain, tenderness, and restriction of joint movement were markedly improved with both drugs after three days of treatment. Further improvement was noted after 14 days of treatment and patients generally resumed normal activities in nine days. There was no difference in the response to treatment or in the global impressions of efficacy between piroxicam and diclofenac. Toleration was regarded as good or excellent by 98% of patients receiving piroxicam and 94% of patients receiving diclofenac. There were few adverse effects reported by either group. The type and incidence of these effects were similar for both drugs, with the majority consisting of mild or moderate local skin reactions at the site of application. The results of this study show that piroxicam 0.5% gel and diclofenac 1.16% gel are equally effective and well tolerated in the treatment of selected acute sprains and tendinitis.