OBJECTIVE
To analyze the efficacy and tolerability of aceclofenac in powder and nimesulide in granules for the preparation of a suspension for oral administration in the treatment of patients with acute nonspecific low back pain (ANLP).
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The study involved 60 patients (37 women and 23 men), average age 49.6 [44.1; 54.9] years, divided into 2 groups: group 1 (n=30) aceclofenac 200 mg/day 10 days; group 2 (n=30) nimesulide 200 mg/day 10 days. All patients received basic treatment, including an oral centrally acting muscle relaxant for 14 days and B vitamins for 21 days. Within the framework of 3 visits (start of treatment, 14, 21 days) NRS pain scale, DN4 Questionnaire, Back Pain Functional Scale (BPFS), MOS SF-36 “The Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey”, ARMS-7 (Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale) and safety aspects were analyzed. To analyze the characteristics of the efficacy and tolerability of NSAIDs in the form of powder/granules for the preparation of oral suspension, a retrospective survey was conducted among 200 patients with non-specific low back pain.
RESULTS
After 14 and 21 days, both groups demonstrated a significant reduction in pain intensity, its neuropathic component, improved functional activity, and high treatment adherence without significant differences between the groups. Aceclofenac relieved acute pain much faster than nimesulide (63.2±4.2 vs. 85.4±4.5, p<0.01). Both NSAIDs were safe without significant differences between the study groups. In the retrospective part of the study, all participants stated that they had used NSAIDs in the form of powder/granules for the preparation of an oral suspension at least once. The most significant advantages of this drug form were the rapid onset of effect (62.5%), ease of administration (56%), and low risk of adverse gastrointestinal events (44.5%). 72.5% of patients recommend taking NSAIDs in the form of powder/granules for the preparation of an oral suspension.
CONCLUSION
The use of aceclofenac and nimesulide in a rapidly dissolving form for the preparation of a suspension for oral administration is an effective and safe option for the treatment of ANLP. Rapid onset of effect, ease of administration, and a favorable safety profile are important advantages of this NSAID formulation for patients. Aceclofenac in the form of a powder for the preparation of a suspension for oral administration is superior to rapidly dissolving nimesulide in the speed of pain relief and can be considered as a first-line treatment for patients with ANLP.
