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New Medications Being Studied
Currently Available Research Trials for Osteoarthritis
1. A study to compare the incidence of clinically significant upper GI adverse events associated with celecoxib to that of ibuprofen in patients with Osteoarthritis (OA) or Rheumatiod Arthritis (RA).
Purpose
A 52-week study comparing the incidence of upper gastrointestinal (GI) events of a new type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), Celecoxib to that of a currently available NSAID, Ibuprofen (motrin). COX-2 is a new classification of NSAIDs that is anticipated to provide analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity without the incidence of as much GI events.
Qualifications
 Opened to patients with any type of RA (RF+ or RF-) that has been diagnosed for at least 3 months
Must be willing to participate in this study for 52 weeks. Patients will be seen every 13 weeks and be given a stipend of $150 at the conclusion of their participation in this study
Must not have a prior medical history of gastric or duodenal surgery or be taking anti-ulcer medications on a regular basis (medicines like pepcid, zantac, tagamet, prilosec etc.).
2. Randomized controlled multi-center double-blind crossover clinical trial to compare the efficacy and safety of arthrotec to acetaminophen in patients with osteoarthritis of the hip or knee.
Purpose
A 12-week study to compare the effectiveness and safety of a currently available medication, Arthrotec (diclofenac (Voltaren) with a stomach-protecting medicine misoprostol (cytotec)) to Acetaminophen (tylenol). Evaluations of overall pain-relief and the incidence of stomach upset will be evaluated.
Qualifications
Must be 40 or older
Must have knee or hip osteoarthritis. X-RAYS WILL BE DONE IF NONE HAVE BEEN DONE IN THE PAST 6 MONTHS
NO prior medical history of a serious gastrointestinal (GI) event (peptic ulcer, GI bleed or perforation) or bleeding disorder
Must not be taking more than 325 mg of aspirin (1 regular aspirin) per day, on any anticoagulants (coumadin, ticlid, plavix, etc.) or be taking lithium.
NO intra-articular steroidal injections into the affected joint in the 6 weeks prior to study entry
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