Investigational Drug Versus an Approved Drug in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis (0663-072)

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Multicenter Study to Evaluate the Tolerability and Effectiveness of Etoricoxib 90 mg q.d. vs. Diclofenac Sodium 75 mg b.i.d. in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the long-term safety of an investigational drug versus an approved drug for the relief of pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

The duration of treatment is 12 months.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Males and females 50 years or older with rheumatoid arthritis.

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of gastrointestinal malabsorption or inflammatory bowel disease
• History of heart problems such as: congestive heart failure (CHF), heart attack or high blood pressure.