Paracetamol 'useless' in treating osteoarthritis pain

Conclusion This Swiss study reviewed drugs commonly used and recommended to help pain associated with osteoarthritis. Through indirect comparison, it identified those likely to be most effective (diclofenac 150 mg/day) and those that are pretty likely to be useless (paracetamol any dose). The study looked at a large number of good-sized RCTs – all with more than 100 people – and covered a useful range of NSAIDS. The quality of the RCTs was also assessed and was generally not highly biased, although variable. However, the review included many indirect comparisons of the drugs, which is less accurate and reliable than direct comparisons. But without more direct comparisons available, this is probably the best we have to go on for now. The main implication from the study authors' point of view was clear: paracetamol has no place in the pain management of osteoarthritis on its own. This finding jars with the UK's current national guidance that advocates using paracetamol as a first-choice painkiller, alongside other osteoarthritis management. The fact paracetamol might not be useful in the pain management of osteoarthritis does appear to be recognised by NICE – the watchdog that issues guidance on medicines – although the current guidance, based on 2008 recommendations, advocates its use. For example, NICE reports that it is in the process of updating the guidance and hints that paracetamol may be less effective than thought in 2008. NICE makes a point of saying on its ...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Medication Older people Source Type: news