NEW research has concluded that anti-inflammatories, such as NSAIDs ibuprofen and aspirin, are little better than placebo at relieving back and neck pain, according to an article pubished in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.
The systematic review and meta-analysis examined 35 randomised trials involving more than 6,000 people, and was led by researchers from The George Institute for Global Health who found only one in six patients experienced significant relief from the drugs.
Gustavo Machado, first author of the new study, said he knew of no promising back pain drugs under development, and recommended regular activity to keep it at bay.
CLICK HERE to access the abstract.
MEANWHILE the Australian Self-Medication Industry has responded to reporting of the study, saying it has no impact on whether people should take OTC NSAIDs for short-term acute pain.
"The millions of Australians who have experienced relief from acute pain through the short term use of NSAIDs as directed on the label can continue to have confidence in their choice of product," said ASMI director of regulatory and scientific affairs, Steve Scarff.
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