Piroxicam and naproxen in acute sports injuries

The efficacy of piroxicam versus placebo was studied in a double-blind, randomized trial of 74 patients with traumatic injury of muscle, periosteum, bursa, or ankle joint. The piroxicam dosage was 40 mg once daily for two days and then 20 mg daily for an additional five days. Efficacy parameters were assessed at entry and at three, seven, and 14 days. At the Day 3 visit, there was a statistically significant improvement in the piroxicam group for pain at rest, pain on movement, pain on palpation, reduced muscle force, and general limitation of function. At the Day 7 visit, the difference was still significant for pain on palpation and reduced muscle force. Mean time required for full relief of symptoms was 7.5 days in the piroxicam group and 10.2 days in the placebo group. The anti-inflammatory effects of piroxicam and naproxen were then compared in 254 patients experiencing the same types of injuries mentioned above. The dosage of piroxicam was the same as in the comparison with placebo, whereas naproxen was given 500 mg twice daily; treatment in both groups lasted for five days. There was no difference in most parameters for pain, swelling, and function. There was a significant difference in favor of piroxicam for tenderness on palpation and time to complete relief of symptoms.