Longterm fenoprofen therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Fenoprofen, a new antirheumatic agent, was evaluated in 45 patients with rheumatoid arthritis in an open study design to simulate the conditions under which the drug will be used. No control agents were used. The effectiveness of fenoprofen was demonstrated by the per cent of patients who improved during fenoprofen therapy. Duration of therapy varied from one to 629 days. Pain was the first parameter to respond, followed by an anti-inflammatory effect, which was observed after four to six weeks of therapy. Side effects consisted mainly of minor gastro-intestinal symptoms.