Prophylactic and therapeutic role of rioprostil in NSAIDs induced gastroduodenal lesions.

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, prospective trial, the activity of rioprostil, a new prostaglandin E1 alcohol analogue, on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced gastroduodenal mucosal lesions is studied in 30 patients with rheumatic diseases. Both treatment regimens, rioprostil, 150 micrograms t.i.d., and rioprostil, 200 micrograms b.i.d., for a period of 12 weeks, significantly reduce the rate of mucosal lesions in all patients when compared to placebo. Furthermore, rioprostil achieves a reduction in gastrointestinal symptoms without enhancement of joint disease activity, and significantly reduces antacid intake. Therapy is safe and well tolerated by all patients. It can be concluded from this study that prostaglandins could play an important part in the prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal damage due to NSAIDs.