EFFICACY OF VITAMIN-E VERSUS DICLOFENAC-SODIUM IN THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC RHEUMATOID-ARTHRITIS

In a randomized, double blind parallel group comparison the antiphlogi stic and analgetic efficacy of high-dosed vitamin E (3x400 mg RRR-alph a-Tocopherolacetat/d) versus diclofenac-sodium has been investigated i n hospitalized patients with established chronic rheumatoid arthritis. After 3 weeks of treatment the vitamin E group (n=42) as well as the diclofenac group (n=43) showed a significant improvement of all assess ed clinical parameters. Duration of morning stiffness could be reduced under vitamin E treatment from 90 min to 68 min and under diclofenac treatment from 68 min to 30 min. The joint index according to Richie d eclined from 56 to 46 (vitamin E) and 49 to 34 (diclofenac). Grip stre ngth increased in the vitamin E group as well as in the diclofenac gro up. In addition, the degree of pain, assessed by a 10 cm visual analog ue scale, reduced significantly under vitamin E as well as under diclo fenac. Regarding the therapeutical result both, physicians and patient s, considered both drugs to be similarly effective. Especially regardi ng the risk profile of NSAR in long-term treatment of chronic rheumato id arthritis intake of high-dosed vitamin E is a possible alternative in the treatment of inflammatory rheumatoid diseases.