Diacerein's Role in Alleviating Inflammation and Synovial Effusion in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Novel Therapeutic Approach

Abstract

Diacerein, an anthraquinone derivative, has gained interest in recent years as a potential therapeutic agent in the management of knee osteoarthritis (KOA), particularly the inflammatory subtype effusion synovitis. This commentary evaluates the effect of diacerein on KOA symptoms and functional outcomes of recent parts of a multicenter randomized controlled trial. The clinical trial of diacerein as a monotherapy for effusion synovitis concluded that not only was there no overall significant change in the knee joint's moisture content after a 24-week therapy but also there was no evidence of symptomatic or functional improvement. Furthermore, problems like diarrhea and colored urine raised questions about its safety and user-friendly profile; therefore, these findings were contentious. These outcomes highlight the need for greater investigation of diacerein, including in combination therapies where its benefits are amplified and adverse effects diminished. Further research should help to define diacerein's role in KOA treatment and increase the understanding of its actions regarding effusion synovitis, focusing on side effects.