Why did MSD choose diclofenac as the comparator?
Because of its various properties and widespread usage worldwide, diclofenac was chosen as an appropriate traditional NSAID comparator for the MEDAL program –Diclofenac is the most commonly used NSAID in the world 1 –Diclofenac is highly effective for treatment of both OA and RA 2 –Diclofenac inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2 at therapeutic doses 2 –Diclofenac does not have sustained antiplatelet effects like naproxen, nor does it interfere with the antiplatelet effects of aspirin, like ibuprofen 3
