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MUSCULO-SKELETAL SYSTEM › ANTIINFLAMMATORY AND ANTIRHEUMATIC PRODUCTS › ANTIINFLAMMATORY AND ANTIRHEUMATIC PRODUCTS, NON-STEROIDS › Other antiinflammatory and antirheumatic agents, non-steroids
diacerein
M01AX21
Adult Dosing
- Osteoarthritis: 50 mg orally twice daily with meals
- Initiate with 50 mg once daily for the first 2-4 weeks to minimize diarrhea
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients under 18 years of age
Indications
- Symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip or knee
Mechanism of Action
- Slow-acting IL-1 beta inhibitor
- Reduces cartilage degradation and synovial inflammation without inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to diacerein, rhein, or anthraquinone derivatives
- History of severe hepatic disease or active liver disorders
- Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease)
- Intestinal obstruction or pseudo-obstruction
- Pregnancy and lactation
Adverse Reactions
- Diarrhea (very common, may be severe)
- Abdominal pain and abdominal discomfort
- Chromaturia (dark yellow to red urine coloration, harmless)
- Pruritus, rash, and eczema
- Elevated liver enzymes and hepatotoxicity
Drug Interactions
- Laxatives and fiber supplements: increased risk of severe diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance
- Antibiotics or antacids containing aluminum, calcium, or magnesium: reduced absorption of diacerein
- Hepatotoxic drugs: increased risk of cumulative liver injury
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use