Open evaluation of the efficacy and endoscopic gastric tolerance of proglumetacin in chronic rheumatic in-patients.

Abstract

SummarySummaryAn open study was carried out in 60 chronic rheumatic in-patients, with or without concomitant gastro-intestinal disorders, to assess the efficacy and tolerance of proglumetacin. Patients received daily doses of 150 mg proglumetacin in the morning and 300 mg in the evening, at meals, over a period of 3 weeks. When appropriate, patients also received concomitant treatment for their gastric disorder. Assessments were made of articular and general symptoms at 3-day intervals. Haematology, search for occult blood in faeces and, where appropriate, gastroduodenoscopy were carried out before and after treatment. Two patients were not considered in the results because of incorrect initial diagnosis. Efficacy was objectively rated as excellent or good in 53 (91%) patients, and 45 became completely symptomless during the trial period. Proglumetacin appeared to provide somewhat faster management of swelling than of pain. Active and passive mobility was fully recovered in 34 of 49 patients during the trial period. Two of the 34 patients without gastroduodenal disorders on entry complained of gastric upsets (1 dropped out), significantly less (p<0.02) than the 7 in 24 (3 dropped out) patients with gastroduodenal disorders who reported increased intensity of complaints. No patient complained of nervous or hypersensitivity symptoms. Gastroduodenoscopy was indicated in 20patients and this was carried out before and after treatment. Only in 2 cases did the findings show any impairment of the mucosa after treatment. This consisted of a few petechial spots: erosions or ulcers were not detected. Occult blood was not found. Haematological findings all remained within the normal physiological range.Key Words:: Proglumetacinanalgesicsanti-inflammatoryrheumatism