Comparison of diclofenac and indomethacin suppositories in rheumatoid arthritis.

The efficacy and tolerability of 100 mg suppositories of diclofenac sodium (Voltaren) and indomethacin were investigated in relieving symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Thirty patients were included in a double-blind, cross-over study for two weeks - six days with diclofenac suppositories, following two days with placebo and six days with indomethacin. Diclofenac sodium and indomethacin were given in random order. Both treatments improved the status of the disease as compared with the situation before the treatment (p less than 0.01). No statistically significant difference was found between the efficacy of indomethacin and diclofenac sodium, as regards both the doctor's and the patient's global assessments. The two treatments were equally well tolerated.