A double-blind randomized controlled trial of ibuprofen compared to placebo for uncomplicated cellulitis of the upper or lower limb

Abstract

Objectives Cellulitis is a common skin infection resulting in inflammation that may take weeks to resolve despite appropriate antibiotics. It is unclear whether the adjunctive use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs hastens the resolution of inflammation in patients with cellulitis. Methods We conducted a double-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing ibuprofen 400 mg three times daily for 5 days with identical placebo in adults with uncomplicated cellulitis of the upper or lower limb who were treated with intravenous cefazolin via an outpatient parenteral antibiotic treatment service at one of two Australian hospitals. Participants were assessed twice daily by a study nurse. The pr..