However , the 4 generic scales would benefit from further validation in patients with RA , the VAS requires st and ardization , and the MAF would benefit from further sensitivity data .
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is an important outcome for patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) .
The purpose of this study was to identify the scales being used to measure RA fatigue , and to systematic ally examine the evidence for their validation .
Diclofenac sodium (Voltaren) and ibuprofen in rheumatoid arthritis. A randomized double-blind study.
A double-blind , cross-over trial compared the antiinflammatory and analgesic effects as well as tolerability of diclofenac sodium ( Voltaren ) and ibuprofen .  Twenty-four out patients with rheumatoid arthritis were included . A single-blind placebo period was inserted between the two active treatments . The daily dose of diclofenac sodium was 50 mg bid and that of ibuprofen 400 mg tid . The duration of each treatment period was 14 days . The efficacy was measured by the following criteria : Articular index ( Lansbury ) , morning stiffness , fatigue , pain ( measured on a visual analogue scale ) , consumption of rescue-analgesics , status of the arthritic condition , and patient preference . No significant differences were found between diclofenac sodium and ibuprofen , but regarding consumption of analgesic , global evaluation , rheumatic activity , and activity index , a slight trend towards a better effect of diclofenac sodium was found . The study had an adequate sensitivity as it could distinguish placebo from the active treatments for all parameters evaluated . No patient was withdrawn for unwanted effects . None of the laboratory data showed abnormalities of clinical relevance
However , the 4 generic scales would benefit from further validation in patients with RA , the VAS requires st and ardization , and the MAF would benefit from further sensitivity data .
OBJECTIVE Fatigue is an important outcome for patients with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) .
The purpose of this study was to identify the scales being used to measure RA fatigue , and to systematic ally examine the evidence for their validation .