Study finds arthritis painkillers of little use

Painkillers taken by millions of arthritis sufferers are actually of limited use in relieving symptoms, scientists say.

Researchers from the University of Bergen in Norway said their findings suggested the drugs should be used only short term and be prescribed much more critically.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including so-called COX-2 inhibitors, are generally recommended for treating patients with osteoarthritis.

But there are concerns about their safety, following the withdrawal of Merck's COX-2 drug Vioxx due to heart attack risk.

Many older NSAIDs can cause gastrointestinal problems.

Jan Magnus Bjordal and colleagues pooled the results of 23 previous clinical trials to find out just how useful all types of NSAIDs and COX-2 drugs were in relieving pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Their findings, published online by the British Medical Journal, showed that the drugs reduced pain in the short term only slightly better than a placebo.

Dr Bjordal said given their serious adverse effects, doctors needed to review carefully whether the drug use was justified.

- REUTERS