Effect of nimesulide on metalloproteinases and matrix degradation in osteoarthritis: a pilot clinical study

In osteoarthritis (OA) the balance between cartilage degeneration and repair is disturbed. The aim of this pilot clinical study was to examine the effects of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, nimesulide, on the synthesis of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) which are important enzymes in cartilage proteolysis. Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), a component of the extracellular matrix, was used as an indicator of accelerated joint erosion. Radiologically proven painful OA of the knee or hip was treated with 100 mg nimesulide twice daily for 3 weeks. MMP-1, -3 and -8 and COMP were measured by immunoassays, and clinical investigations were made on pain, and on disease intensity using the WOMAC scale. During treatment with nimesulide, in addition to clinical improvement and less pain, serum levels of MMP-3, MMP-8 and COMP fell indicating a beneficial effect on cartilage catabolism.