A Comparison of the Effects of Tenoxicam and Piroxicam on Grip Strength in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Ten patients were recruited for this randomised double-blind pilot study to compare the efficacy and tolerance of tenoxicam 20 mg daily and piroxicam 20 mg daily in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The change in grip strength over an eight week study period was the primary efficacy variable and measurements were made using a digital pinch/grip analyser (MIE Medical Research Ltd.). There were no significant treatment differences in the change in grip strength (p < 0.2), although greater improvements in all efficacy parameters measured were achieved for patients receiving tenoxicam than those receiving piroxicam. Both treatments were well tolerated with few adverse events reported. Further studies with more patients are required to adequately assess whether there are any differences between treatments.