Effects of nimesulide and naproxen on the degradation and metalloprotease synthesis of human osteoarthritic cartilage.

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of 2 nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), nimesulide and naproxen, on the proteoglycan matrix breakdown and metalloprotease synthesis of human osteoarthritic cartilage. The results showed that, under in vitro conditions, these 2 NSAIDs could significantly reduce both the degradation of proteoglycan and stromelysin synthesis. However, only nimesulide had the ability to significantly reduce collagenase synthesis. The effectiveness of these drugs on the natural course of osteoarthritis remains to be established by clinical studies.