Management of Patients with Musculoskeletal Pain Syndrome during COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Objective of the Review: To discuss the efficiency and safety of the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with low back pain (LBP), also during COVID-19 pandemic. Key Points. Musculoskeletal pain syndromes, including LBP, are common; they affect the quality of patients’ life and result in huge medical bills. In a lot of post-COVID-19 patients, LBP appears for the first time or gets worse. Challenges in the management of such patients are caused by involvement of multiple organs and body systems, the need in taking numerous medications at once, which increases the risk of drug interaction. This overview describes the efficiency and safety of nimesulide in patients with low back pain. The use of NSAIDs in patients with COVID-19 is discussed. Beneficial effects and possible risks of nimesulide are analysed. Conclusion. Management of patients with LBP during the COVID-19 pandemic requires thorough selection of an optimal therapy taking into account comorbidities and a high risk of drug-drug interactions. Nimesulide is a potent medication with a favourable safety and tolerability profile. It is advisable to use nimesulide in the management of patients with low back pain, including COVID-19 survivors. Safety of the therapy can be ensured by thorough drug selection taking into account comorbidities and risks of complications. Keywords: musculoskeletal pain syndromes, low back pain, COVID-19, post-COVID syndrome, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, nimesulide, management, side effects.