Double blind randomized comparative evaluation of nimesulide and paracetamol as antipyretics.

OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy and safety of nimesulide and paracetamol as antipyretic agents. DESIGN Double blind, randomized clinical trial. METHODS Hospitalized patients having fever due to a variety of infections were given either drug in a randomized manner. (Nimesulide group = 49, Paracetamol group = 50). Serial axillary temperature was recorded after drug administration and side effects monitored. RESULTS The mean temperature after one hour of drug administration was significantly lower in nimesulide group (p < 0.05). Significantly fewer doses of nimesulide were required to bring down the temperature on the first day (p < 0.001). The mean maximum temperature recorded on second and third day was significantly lower in the nimesulide group (p < 0.05). Adverse reactions were seen in the form of epigastric pain and vomiting in one patient in Nimesulide group and three in paracetamol group. CONCLUSION Nimesulide is more effective than paracetamol as an antipyretic agent and is safe for use in infants and children.