Piroxicam fast‐dissolving dosage form vs diclofenac sodium

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Abstract
Objective: To assess the possible therapeutic effect of 40 mg sublingual piroxicam (fast‐dissolving dosage form, FDDF) compared with intramuscular 75 mg diclofenac, as a reference drug, on acute renal colic in a randomized, double‐blind controlled clinical trial.Patients and methods: Eighty patients were assigned to one of two treatment groups; one received an intramuscular injection with 0.2 mL distilled water and two sublingual tablets of 20 mg piroxicam FDDF, and the other received an intramuscular injection with 75 mg diclofenac sodium and two sublingual tablets of placebo. Pain intensity was evaluated by the patient using a visual analogue scale and by the observers. Vital signs at baseline and 30 min after the administration of the study drugs were also recorded.Results: The overall efficacy of the treatment was 81%; nine patients in the piroxicam and six in the diclofenac group (no significant difference) required rescue treatment. Compared with baseline levels, the pain relief was significant (PP<0.03).Conclusion: Piroxicam FDDF is as effective as parenteral diclofenac in emergency renal colic treatment. Furthermore, its ease of self‐administration increases patient compliance and potential use in general practice.