Dysmenorrhoea

Primary dysmenorrhoea can be readily relieved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs inhibit prostaglandin synthetase, reducing the level of prostanoids in the uterus and the uterine contractions that cause the painful cramps. Piroxicam-β-cyclodextrin is rapidly absorbed and quickly reaches peak blood concentrations. Four published clinical studies have evaluated piroxicam-β-cyclodextrin for relief of primary dysmenorrhoea. Piroxicam-β-cyclodextrin 20mg once daily was significantly more effective than placebo in relief of dysmenorrhoea, was better than ketoprofen in relieving the abdominal pain of dysmenorrhoea, and had a quicker onset and longer duration of relief than naproxen. Both investigators and patients rated a greater preference for piroxicam-β-cyclodextrin over the comparator medications. The tolerability of piroxicam-β-cyclodextrin in the treatment of dysmenorrhoea was good, with a very low incidence of adverse effects.