Nabumetone: a new NSAID for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis

Fifteen nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available in the United States today, yet no clear distinctions among their indications, risk-benefit profiles, or cost effectiveness have been proved. Nabumetone (Relafen), a new NSAID for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA), may differ from the others. Studies have shown that, when compared with currently available NSAIDs, nabumetone may be associated with a significantly lower incidence of gastroduodenal ulcer, and that nabumetone also appears to be safer for use in elderly patients and in those with renal or hepatic impairment.