Abstract

Background: For the treatment of pain disorders including low back pain, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are frequently utilized. They come in several forms (such as transdermal, suppository, and oral). Simple processes can be used to deliver oral formulations; nevertheless, It is important to consider when to dose in relation to meals as it is typically advised not to take them without food. Furthermore, older adults frequently experience difficulty swallowing due to muscle weakening, which may make the administration of oral formulations contraindicated in this population. Rectal suppositories allow for quick absorption of drugs (via the rectal mucosa) independent of meal consumption and are safe to use even in elderly people. Methodology: The present study is randomized double blinded controlled conducted in the department of Pharmacology and in association with Orthopedics in patients with low back pain after taking informed voluntary consent in the age group 30-60 years. The patinets with low back pain were randomly allocated into D (diclofenac patch) group and P (placebo) group. The study consisted of a 1-week washout period, a 1-week observation period, and a 2-week treatment period. After a 1-week washout of the prior analgesic treatment (NSAID or acetaminophen), during the observation period patients applied two placebo patches once daily for 1 week in a single-blind manner. Acceptable sites of application included the chest, abdomen, upper arm, upper and mid back, low back, and thigh. In principle, a different site from that used on the previous day was to be used. Patients assessed their low back pain daily from the start of the washout period until the end of the study by using a 100-mm VAS.

Description