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New Medications Being Studied
Currently Available Research Trials for Rheumatoid Arthritis
1. A multicenter, study comparing the incidence of clinically significant upper GI adverse events associated with elecoxib to that of ibuprofen in patients with Osteoarthritis (OA) or Rheumatiod Arthritis (RA).
Purpose
A 52-week study comparing the incidence of significant upper gastrointestinal (GI) events of a new COX-2 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 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. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the effect of MK-0966 on blood and synovial fluid prostaglandin levels and synovial fluid MK-0966 concentrations in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
Purpose
Evaluate the effects of medication on knee synovial fluid (fluid sac surrounding the knee that lubricates the joint) concentrations in patients with RA. Comparisons will be made between a new COX-2 NSAID, MK-0966 to that of a currently available NSAID, diclofenac (Voltaren) and a placebo (fake medicine).
A knee aspiration will be done prior to taking the medication. The medication will be taken for 7 days and then a knee aspiration will be done on the last day the study medication is taken. Patients will receive $250 plus transportation money for participation in this study.
Qualifications
Must have a knee swelling
Can be on an NSAID prior to enrollment but this will be discontinued at the time of enrollment
Can be taking oral prednisone provided the dose is no greater than 10 mg/day and that you have been taking it for at least 3 months. The dose must be stable during the 4 weeks prior to study entry
May be taking Methotrexate but Must Not be taking aspirin, tylenol, cyclosporine, sulfasalazine, misoprostol (cytotec), coumadin, ticlid, or any NSAIDs during this study (which is one week long). If taking any of the prohibited medications just mentioned, they would be discontinued for 4 weeks prior to enrollment.
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