Prospects for using meloxicam in old-age group patients with rheumatic diseases
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in complex therapy for pain syndrome in rheumatology. The paper describes the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the development of chronic and acute pain. It details the action of cyclooxygenase types 1 and 2 (COG 1 and COG 2), shows the key role of COG 2 in pain induction and transmission. The data of clinical trials of meloxicam that inhibits mainly COG 2 are given. The drug is highly effective in treating rheumatic diseases, particularly in old-age group patients with osteoporosis. The combined use of different meloxicam formulations makes it possible to choose adequate, maximally individualized treatment and to relieve the pain syndrome in the shortest possible time. Among NSAIDs, meloxicam shows an optimum efficacy-safety ratio.