Effects of tribenoside (Glyvenol) on experimental osteoarthrosis.

An experimental model of chemically induced osteoarthrosis in the knee joint of adult hens was used to investigate the possible anti-arthrotic potency of the D-glucofuranose derivative tribenoside (Glyvenol). Development and intensity of progressing degenerative processes in the articular tissue were controlled and quantitatively determined by radiographic and macroscopic methods. Tribenoside was given in daily oral doses of 50 and 150 mg/kg by cannulation into the crop. Control of the knee joints by X-ray using mammography film as well as joint space measurements were performed at the beginning and 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks after induction of osteoarthrosis. The results clearly demonstrate that the higher dose (150 mg/kg) of tribenoside had a significant inhibitory influence on the degenerative processes in the knee joints. The obvious anti-arthrotic potency of tribenoside may be explained by the various chondrotropic and vasotropic activities of this drug. The mode of action of tribenoside on connective tissue is discussed in relation and contrast to the inhibitory effect of most anti-inflammatory antirheumatics on anabolic cartilage metabolism.