Model-Based Meta-Analysis Supporting the Combination of Acetaminophen and Topical Diclofenac in Acute Pain: A Therapy for Mild-to-Moderate Osteoarthritis Pain?

Our results indicate greater pain reduction and opioid-sparing efficacy for the AtopD combination versus acetaminophen monotherapy. Given the similar pain pathways and mechanisms of action of the two drugs in acute and mild-to-moderate OA pain, comparable beneficial effects from the combination therapy may be anticipated following extrapolation to chronic OA pain. Prospective RCTs and real-world studies in OA pain are needed to confirm the differences in the efficacy of the combination treatment observed in our study.