The objective of the study was to test the effectiveness and tolerance of a new non-steroidal antirheumatic drug (NSA), beta-cyclodextrin piroxicam (BCP), in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. An open pilot study extending over 80 days was made. The study comprised 50 patients with active rheumatoid arthritis requiring continual NSA treatment. The patients took BCP, 20 mg per day. The authors evaluated the general condition of the patients, and the so-called signal joint which was the most active joint or group of small joints. The evaluation was made by means of selected objective and semi-objective parameters. The investigated parameters were: the number of joints tender to palpation, the number of swollen joints, the algofunctional questionnaire HAQ, assessment of daytime and nighttime pain by means of a visual analogue scale, the period of morning stiffness and restriction of articular function. Evaluation of different parameters was made after 14, 30 and 80 days of treatment. In all investigated parameters after 80 days treatment a significant improvement of values was recorded as compared with the initial values (p < 0,01). Improvement or marked improvement was reported by 86% patients, deterioration only by 4%. Undesirable effects of treatment were recorded in 10% and were mild. Treatment was discontinued in 6%. Beta-cyclo- dextrin piroxicam is an effective and well tolerated alternative treatment of pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

        Key words: rheumatoid arthritis, therapy, non-steroidal antirheumaticdal drugs, beta-cyclodex-