Distalgesic; safety and efficacy. Efficacy: UK experience.

The UK experience of Distalgesic efficacy is examined, and 18 trials have been reviewed, of which only five were controlled and only three contained a placebo. Three trials are examined in detail and the problems of trial methodology discussed. The assessment of analgesic effect in chronic painful conditions presents considerable problems. Despite the fact that Distalgesic appears to be a useful analgesic in the clinical situation, long-term controlled studies of its effectiveness in chronic pain are still awaited.