Tolmetin sodium, a new anti-arthritis drug: double-blind and long-term studies.

The effectiveness of tolmetin sodium in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis was evaluated by: 1) a 12-week, double-blind study with a dosage range of 800-1600 mg daily; and 2) an open 2-year study with a dosage range of 400-2400 mg daily. The double-blind study involved 14 patients (7 tolmetin sodium, 7 placebo), and the long-term study involved 24 patients. At frequent intervals, evaluations were made of joint pain, swelling, stiffness and inflammation; grip strength; walking time; and subjective well-being. Various laboratory tests were also performed. In the double-blind study, tolmetin sodium proved superior to placebo and produced moderate improvement. In the long-term study, 5 patients improved markedly, 14 moderately, and 3 minimally. Severe side effefts were notably absent. Some mild side effects occurred but they were transient and did not interfere with therapy. Tolmetin sodium seems effective and safe in the management of rheumatoid arthritis.