Combination treatment for osteoarthrosis of the large joints

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the intraarticular or intramuscular injections of chondroprotectors in combination with oral NSAIDs in patients with osteoarthrosis of the large joints.

Material and methods

We recruited 56 patients with osteoarthrosis who were treated with intraarticular or intramuscular injections of chondroprotectors (chondroitin sulfate or dermatan sulfate) with celecoxib ± pregabalin.

Results

Patients with the 1st grade of osteoarthritis were treated with intramuscular injections of chondroitin sulfate, while patients with the 2nd grade of osteoarthritis received intraarticular injections. Joint pain decreased significantly in both groups of patients. Pregabalin administration in 20 patients with neuropathic pain resulted in reduction of DN 4 and Pain Detect scores. Combination treatment was well tolerated.

Conclusion

Parenteral administration of chondroprotectors in combination with celecoxib ± pregabalin rapidly alleviates pain in patients with osteoarthrosis of the large joints who did no respond to NSAIDs.

Key words

Osteoarthrosis, chondroprotectors, anticonvulsants, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, neuropathy.