[Comparison of glycosaminoglycan polysulfate (Arteparon) and physiological saline solution in arthrosis of the large joints. Results of a multicenter double-blind study].

In a double-blind study, glycosaminoglycan polysulfate (GAGPS, Arteparon) was compared to saline solution: both preparations were applied intramuscularly in two groups of 70 patients, each over a period of 8 weeks. The patients were suffering from pain and impaired function of the knee and hip joints. To assess the therapeutic efficacy, the following parameters were employed: pain, joint mobility, and walking distance. The post trial observation period lasted for 6 months. In the GAGPS group, a statistically significant improvement compared to the results in the saline group was noted during the 2nd and 6th months of observation respectively. The global assessment by investigator and patient at the end of the observation period was superior in the GAGPS group to that in the saline group. While the difference regarding the onset of pain remission between the GAGPS and the saline groups was insignificant, the rate of complete relief from pain was better in the GAGPS group, and pain worsened in fewer incidences in this group, too. Laboratory findings did not reveal any detrimental effect of either treatment with respect to hematology, blood chemistry, or urinalysis. 3 patients of the GAGPS group developed harmless hematomas of short duration at the site of injection.