Oxaprozin versus aspirin in rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind trial

A parallel double-blind trial was carried out over a 3-month period in 40 patients suffering from active rheumatoid arthritis to compare the anti-inflammatory effectiveness and side-effects of treatment with oxaprozin and aspirin. The results showed that 1200 mg oxaprozin daily had similar anti-inflammatory properties to those of 3.9 g aspirin daily in rheumatoid arthritis. Better results were produced with 1200 mg oxaproxin daily than with a 600 mg dosage level, suggesting that there is a close dose-response relationship. The incidence of side-effects was similar with both drugs. Gastrointestinal intolerance was more frequent and severe in the aspirin group, whereas rash and headache were noted more often in patients receiving oxaprozin.