Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
Volume 50, Issue 2 , Pages 217-218, February 1997

Use of topical NSAIDs in patients receiving systemic NSAID treatment: A pharmacy-based study in Germany

  • R.Sift Carter

      Affiliations

    • Corresponding Author InformationAddress for correspondence: Dr. R. Sift-Carter, Medicine & Clinical Development Department, Central Epidemiology & Drug Safety, Ciba-Geigy Ltd., K-490.1.54 CH-4002, Basel, Switzerland.
    • ,
  • D. Ebner
    • ,
  • D. Brenner
    • ,
  • R. Bruppacher

Medicine & Clinical Development Department, Central Epidemiology & Drug Safety, Ciba-Geigy Ltd., CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland

Accepted 31 July 1996.

Abstract 

Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAID account for two-thirds of the most frequently prescribed NSAIDs in Germany. Nevertheless, the extent of use and the benefit of local NSAIDs are viewed critically. We described the use of topical NSAIDs in people with systemic NSAID therapy. The study population consisted of 526 people with an average age of 57 years; two-thirds of the patients were women. We observed that the elderly (60 years and older) and patients with osteo- and/or rheumatoid arthritis had an increased likelihood of being treated with both topical and systemic NSAIDs. We suggest that the frequent use of topical NSAIDs in these patients is based on their supportive therapeutic effect rather than on their efficacy. Further research is needed in order to investigate the potential beneficial effects of topical NSAIDs in NSAID therapy.

Keywords:  Drug utilization, topical NSAIDs, pharmacy study

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PII: S0895-4356(96)00299-5

Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
Volume 50, Issue 2 , Pages 217-218, February 1997

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