Revisión farmacoclínica del condroitín sulfato

Abstract

Chondroitin sulfate (CS) belongs to the group of glycosaminoglycans. CS is an important and major component of articular cartilage, where it binds to a core protein, forming proteoglycans, responsible for cartilage mechanic and elastic properties. Within the therapeutic framework, CS is a symptomatic slow acting drug for osteoarthritis (SYSADOA). This new therapeutic class is characterised by presenting an efficacy on symptoms similar to that of non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which starts gradually but lasts longer even after treatment suppression. The results from all clinical trials conclude that CS is more effective than placebo (approximately 50%, p < 0.05) in reducing joint pain and rescue medication, increasing functional capacity and in patient and physician assessment. Additionally, CS presents a better safety profile than conventional therapy, with a consequent reduction in gastroprotection therapies. Besides, given that it is not metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, it can not present drug interactions at this level. On the other hand, data from 5 clinical trials in patients with hand and knee osteoarthritis conclude that CS seems to slow down the progression of cartilage degradation. Thus, itcould account as a potential disease modifying osteoarthritis drug. To conclude, we can state that CS is an effective tool for osteoarthritis treatment.